The ballistic helmet market has seen trends rise and fall over time. Some have stayed while some have far gone beyond remembrance. The use of Ballistic masks as an alternative to ballistic helmets is becoming more widespread today.
So, are we looking at a possible replacement? Will these new kids on the block come in as fitting agents of defense? Or are there other features that we are yet to consider? In essence, are ballistic masks the way forward?
What is a Ballistic Face Mask?
To start with, ballistic face masks are also known as facial armors. Just like ballistic helmets, these masks are a kind of personal shield built to defend combatants from ballistic attacks. Ballistic face masks are made out of Kevlar which is bullet resistant. This allows them to provide ballistic protection for the wearer. These masks also come with internal padding to help with shock absorption.
Are They the Way Forward?
To answer this, shall we consider the following deficiencies:
- Reduced Level of Protection
First is that the level of protection offered to the wearer is not as solid as that of ballistic helmets. Ballistic face masks can only defend against tiny fragments of shrapnel and shotgun bullets that are mostly used for hunting small prey. This means that the face masks cannot protect against shots from an AK-47. Not so great, we must say.
- Obscured Vision
Another deficiency is in the fact that ballistic face mask wearers always have difficulties with their vision. These masks obscure soldiers’ vision while in combat and that can prove detrimental to them.
- Heavy Weight
Unlike most ballistic helmets especially the recent ones, ballistic face masks are as heavy as they come. This weight issue is another impediment in combat.
- Breathe Obstruction
These face masks hinder sweat from evaporating from a soldier’s face and at the same time hinder them from breathing. Why get yourself killed before an attack when it isn’t a suicide mission?
Hence, we believe that with the deficiencies that come with these face masks, they may not be the way forward for combatants. What do you think?
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