3M Versaflo

[custard]

Does anyone have any first hand experience of using this face mask/air filtration system?

I'd be grateful if you could share your experiences and also put it into context, for example what tasks are you using it for, how many hours at a stretch do you wear it, what's your thoughts on swapping out filters & vision screens, how long are re-charge times, etc.

 

[CHJ]

not-so-dusty-t101879.html

I have the lighter weight head mask, I don't need the 'bump' protection of the heavier unit, but do use it in conjunction with the dust cape to improve its lower inward dust performance and shed more of the flying debris I get when turning.
The battery lasts a full day, charges rapidly, battery has charge state test built in, I often wear it for 4 hours at a time and never suffer from weight or movement discomfort.

It's the most comfortable and effective mask I've ever used.

 

[custard]

Thanks Chas. I guess you've been using it now through quite a variety of different weather, have you had any misting up issues? Also, if you were to buy again would you still go for the same helmet?

 

[CHJ]

Never ever had any misting problems, yes I personally would go for the lighter weight helmet as it's one of the most significant factors for me and causes no problems with neck discomfort or when bending over etc. (which was a significant problem with the Trend unit I reviewed several years ago)
The earlier 3M design I have I thought was good but this is even better in that respect, I believe George Watkins (cornucopia) uses the 300 series helmet (slightly heavier) and finds it fine.

 

[Eric The Viking]

There are two tricks I know to prevent misting (from my biking days):

Cheap solution is shampoo or washing up liquid (shampoo is probably better). wipe on and polish almost completely away.

Better performance alternative is "RainX" which is an anti-smear coating for car windscreens, but works excellently for stopping misting.

Misting usually occurs because of microscopic particles promoting condensation (diesel smuts and road grime in a biker context). If (big "if") you can keep the visor's inside surface really clean (and not scratched), it won't mist up easily, and will clear quickly too. Clean with a well-washed linen hanky, and not in the workshop, in case you grind sawdust into the surface.

HTH, E.

PS: Was going to recommend Bob Heath Visors' anti-misting spray too, but it look like they no longer sell it. Shame.