The Face Protection Thread v.Ahhhh I can't fucking see!

[SHoGuNN3R]

So, this thread is for anything and everything when it comes to protecting that beautiful face of yours. :smug:

Let's start off with some excellent ways of protecting that face.

:siren: [b][u]Eye Protection[/u][/b] :siren:

This has to be the most important part of your face to protect. Seriously.

Never, ever, ever, ever, go into a match without those eyeballs covered.

If you have to ask why, you probably shouldn't be playing airsoft.

[b]Goggles[/b]

[img]http://boingboing.net/images/steampunkgoggles07.jpg[/img]

Goggles are usually the thing that comes to mind when you protect DAT face. They usually only protect the most vital part of your face, the eyes. 99.9999% of the time they come with head straps that go around your head, to, well, keep it on. Again, if you had to ask this, you probably shouldn't play airsoft.

[b]What should I look for when purchasing Goggles?[/b]

[list][b]Lense Rating[/b] - How protective are the lenses? Can they stop a plastic projectile traveling over 600 FPS? What are my local field limits? What are the major events limits that I go to? What are the sniper limits at these fields?[/list]
A. I regard it generally good to get something over atleast 800 FPS regardless of field limit. If the retailer cannot inform you, then it's best to find something else. But if you really cannot find anything except whatever it is you found, then, try it out first by taking a few pot shots at it from a reasonable distance.

[list][b]Durability[/b] - If these were shot up by a 500 FPS rifle, would they scratch? If a 300 lbs. airsofter was to accidentally sit down on them in a rest area, would they break? Can they take a beating from the rocks, dirt, weather, water, leaves, branches, and general obstacles you may encounter? Can they take a fall from over 40 feet? Are the lenses replaceable? Does it come with a speed sleeve?[/list]
A. Always purchase goggles that can take a beating. This is airsoft. You aren't going to bring Ray-Bans into combat are you? You can usually tell if something is going to be durable or not when you first get them. I can't explain how, but, you can. Branded Goggles and Speed Sleeves are usually a reassurance. If you don't get a speed sleeve, you can always buy one.

[list][b]Fogging/Comfort[/b] - Will these fog up on me in combat? Do these come with smoke and clear lenses? Does the band irritate my head? Does it feel good and comfy when it's on?[/list]
A. Never get anything that doesn't feel right. Always check to see if there is good airflow. Fogging is a bitch, and will always usually be there, but, it's nice if it's reduced a bit. Make sure the band doesn't feel itchy, or weird against your head. You don't want to be in combat scratching your head, do you? Remember, these goggles can be on for hours at a time. Never take them off in a combat zone.

[b][u]Brands[/u][/b]

When it comes to Goggles there are some brands there you know you can feel safe with.

[b]Arena[/b] - [url]http://www.arenaindustries.com/[/url]
[b]ESS[/b] - [url]http://www.esseyepro.com/[/url]
[b]Revision[/b] - [url]http://www.revisioneyewear.com/[/url]
[b]Oakley[/b] - I can't find Military Goggles on Oakley's Website, but they do make some.

These are some of the main brand when it comes to Airsoft Goggles.

[b][u]Recommended Goggles[/b][/u]

Here are some goggles considered good by the general airsoft populace.

[b]Arena Flakjaks[/b] - Made by Arena Industries. These Goggles were made in such mass quantity for Desert Shield/Storm. You can get the first version of these in Tan for as low as $10.00 new. They come with Speed Sleeves and Smoke/Clear Lenses. They come with patented Arena Razorback™ system that ensures you no fog when you move. You can get the new ones for as low as $40.00 dollars in a variety of colors such as OD, Black, and Tan. You can purchase the Arena Flakjaks on Arena's website, search various airsoft/military gear websites, eBay, or your local retailers. They are more expensive on Arena's own website at $80.00. I use Flakjak v.2's in OD by the way.

[img]http://www.corkairsoftshop.com/shopdata/images/flakjak.jpg[/img]

[b]ESS Profile NVG[/b] - Made by ESS. These goggles come in Tan, Black, and OD. $100.00 new on the ESS website. The thing about these that I like is they come with Laser Protective Lenses. Which I love. Using the patented ESS ClearZone™ & FlowCoat lense treatments, these goggles ensure the user minimal scratching on the outside of the lense, and minimal fogging on the inside. You can get them with paid accessories such as Speed Sleeves, Replacement Lenses, Laser Protective Lenses, Rip-Off Lense Covers, and Lens Inserts via the ESS website. You can again, find these on ESS's website, eBay, Airsoft/Gear websites, or your local retailers.

[img]http://www.ipscgm.com/images/products_white_1_color_4_lg.jpg[/img]

[b]ESS Striker Series Land Ops[/b] - Made by ESS. These goggles come in Tan and OD. These goggles are Authorized for use and issued by the U.S. Army. These goggles use the ESS HiFlow™ system which ventilates out humid air and filters out airborne particles. These goggles are $70.00 new on the ESS Website. You can get them with paid accessories such as Speed Sleeves, Replacement Lense, Dual-Thermal Lenses, Rip-Off Lense Covers, and Lens Inserts via the ESS website. Remember, these DO fit over glasses. You can again, find these on ESS's website, eBay, Airsoft/Gear websites, or your local retailers.

[img]http://www.army-surplus.com/i/New%20Arrivals/ess_land_ops.jpg[/img]

[b]Revision Desert Locust[/b] - Made by Revision. These goggles come in Tan, OD, and Black. These goggles have top and bottom air vents that insure a flow of air whilst filtering out particles. These goggles use Revision OcuMax to ensure the utmost protection on the outer part of the lense. The Revision's Polycarbonate lenses ensure 100% protection against UV rays. The low profile design ensures compatibility with a helmet and ease whilst aiming down weapon sights. These come new of the Revision website at $129.99 with Clear, Yellow, and Smoke lenses, Speed Sleeves, Microfiber Lenses Pocket, and Storage Case. You can again, find these on ESS's website, eBay, Airsoft/Gear websites, or your local retailers.

[img]http://www.eguns.com/sPearCat/1-4.woa/1/sd/eguns/Catalog/item-rev-desert-locust-goggles-black//English/Image/Desert_Locust_Black.jpg[/img]

:siren: [b][u]Accessories[/b][/u] :siren:

[b]The Balaclava (Bah-La-Clah-Va) A.K.A. Ski Mask[/b]

The Balaclava was originally meant to keep some British faces warm and fuzzy. Today, the Balaclava is used for a variety of reasons, to keep warm, to protect the face, to hide the identity of the soldier, or to look plain badass.

The modern Balaclava can be made from a variety of materials, like silk, cotton, polypropylene, neoprene, wool, acrylic or fleece. I myself prefer Cotton.

[b]The 1 Hole[/b]

[img]http://www.motohart.co.uk/images/thumbs/thumb_balaclava.jpg[/img]

Favorite amongst those with piercing eyebrows, "OPERATOR! OPERATOR!", Policing Forces, and those who like their mouths.

Can be worn with or without the noise exposed.

[b]The 2 Hole/Spiderman Mask[/b]

[img]http://www.flecktarn.co.uk/photos/blcbl5nx500a.jpg[/img]

Favorite amongst those with very distinctive noise bridges, Spiderman Fans, Spiderman himself, and those who just want to show their eyes.

[b]The 3 Hole - "Terrorists!"[/b]

[img]http://www.timberlinesafetywear.com/timber_pics/Photos/clothing/toques/8k900fmlg.jpg[/img]

Ahh the three hole. Favorite amongst The Irish Republican Army, Basque Separatists, The Abu Sayyaf, Al Queda, Militias, Terrorists, Convenience Store Hold Uppers, Burglars, Car Jackers, and Eastern Europeans.

Generally badass with an AK.

Ways to wear a Balaclava.

[media]http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5c/20070102_per_erik_strandberg_balaclava_arranged.jpg[/media]

[b]The Keffiyeh A.K.A. The Shemagh A.K.A. The Terrorist Face Wrap Thing[/b]

The Keffiyeh or Shemagh is a traditional headdress typically worn by Arab men made of a square of cloth, usually cotton, folded and wrapped in various styles around the head. It is commonly found in arid climate areas to provide protection from direct sun exposure, as well as for occasional use in protecting the mouth and eyes from blown dust and sand. Its distinctive woven check pattern originated in an ancient Mesopotamian representation of either fishing nets or ears of grain.

It's also very popular amongst PMC's, Soldiers, Terrorists, and as an accessory for those damned hipsters. Works perfectly in airsoft against faceshots. It comes in a very diverse range of colors. From Red-White to Blue-Black.

How to tie a Shemagh.

[img]http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/5304/shemagh6pn.jpg[/img]

[b]The Combat Helmet[/b]

The Combat Helmet, is of course, for your head. In real life, it stops ricochets, shrapnel, certain types of bullets, and can spare you some serious trauma. In airsoft, it can also do this, except the bullets are plastic BB's, so, you don't need something like Kevlar. Remember though, if your helmet gets hit, you do too. Now, Helmets are preferably worn with Goggles, like those listed above. Certain Facemasks can fit certain Helmets. Remember this aswell, you don't need the real thing for airsoft. The plastic version of your favorite helmet will suffice.

[b]The Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops A.K.A. The PASGT[/b]

Probably one of the most common combat helmets in the world. Most known for it's use with the US Army in the late 80's, 90's, and early 2000's. The PASGT can be used for most situations, and loadouts. From Desert, Woodland, Urban, and Snow. This helmet is the international standard. You can find PASGT Covers for mostly every camouflage imaginable. The PASGT does have different variations from the standard though. The German Gefechtshelm Schuberth B826 for example or the USMC Lightweight Helmet. You can find a plastic PASGT in any airsoft retailer for 10-20 dollars. You can find real PASGT's in any surplus store. PASGT's have a variety of different accessories, such as IR Strobes, NVG's, and different types of mounts. Great for GI Loadouts.

[img]http://site.wonderhobby.com/greenhelmet1.jpg[/img]

[b]Mk.6 Helmet A.K.A. That Round British Helmet[/b]

Well, it's the helmet the British Armed Forces use. Usually seen with a DPM cover. You can find these on most Military Gear Online Retailers. Or a surplus store if you live in the UK. Mk.6's have a variety of different accessories, such as IR Strobes, NVG's, and different types of mounts. Great for British Loadouts.

[img]http://img.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2007/11_01/065soldierDM_468x367.jpg[/img]

[b]MICH Series Helmets A.K.A. The Helmet All Tacticool Loadouts Use[/b]

A favorite amongst Operators, PMC's, and Tacticoolers. Dreaded by 90's GI fans. These helmets are the epitome of modern Helmetry. The Modular Integrated Communications Helmet (MICH) is currently being used by the United States Army. These helmets integrate for easy use with Headsets. These helmets can be found at most Surplus stores and online gear retailers. You can find plastic versions for airsoft at Airsoft GI. Great for US Army, PMC, and Operator loadouts.

The MICH 2000.
[img]http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3267/3165737322_878a16169f.jpg[/img]

The MICH 2001.
[img]http://ebaybanned.com/images/MICH_2001_TAN_Helmet_2.jpg[/img]

[b]Recon Wraps[/b]

Just a tube of stretchy cloth. Simple right? Well it can be used for basically anything. Made by the Airsoft Gear brand OE TECH, you can find these on Airsoft GI in Tan, OD, ACU, and Black for $10.00 a pop.

[img]http://www.patriotoutfitters.com/img/products/17400/17496.gif[/img]

Uses for the Recon Wrap.

[img]http://www.patriotoutfitters.com/img/products/17400/17499.GIF[/img]

Give me some more stuff to add to the thread.

I'm going to be adding the following tomorrow.

[list]Boonie Hats[/list]
[list]Beanies[/list]

:suicide:

[Dudder]

I just use regular safety glasses.

[xXEnder007Xx]

Safety glasses aren't the greatest. BBs can ricochet off you and your gear and get up into the glasses. Or a good shot from behind you will get in there too. The only glasses I'd recommend are the ones that have a foam liner around the lenses. And I can't remember who makes them, Oakley maybe?

[sonnysonny]

The first pic looks like something out of Fallout :P Why hasn't someone made this thread already?

[SHoGuNN3R]

[QUOTE=sonnysonny;18804537]The first pic looks like something out of Fallout :P Why hasn't someone made this thread already?[/QUOTE]

I'm not sure really. Any other goggles you want me to add? Or stuff? Thinking of adding Beanies and Boonie Hats.

[xXEnder007Xx]

Don't forget Recon Wraps. It's nothing more than a tube of cloth but it works so many ways.

[debmaster]

What would Facepunch recommend for some eye protection that's not a face mask?

[Killoch0]

Whats your recommendation for indoor CQB? I'm playing with a full face mask as a leftover habbit from when I originally started, but I'd love to chuck it for something less invasive, while not risking teeth.

Oh and I only need to worry about 328fps shots.

[xXEnder007Xx]

[QUOTE=Killoch0;18807203]Whats your recommendation for indoor CQB? I'm playing with a full face mask as a leftover habbit from when I originally started, but I'd love to chuck it for something less invasive, while not risking teeth.

Oh and I only need to worry about 328fps shots.[/QUOTE]

Just about any set of goggles will be much better to wear than a paintball mask. Pair that up with a balaclava, shemagh, or a recon wrap and you protect your mouth too.

[sonnysonny]

Check out a GP-5 gas mask conversion, they are common among wannabee stalkers and the lenses will shatter when shot (I tested them)

[L_Dawg]

The first thing that came to my head with that first picture was "3M". I wear a full facemask with mesh anyway. It's basically a requirement because the field I go to is mostly CQB with AEGs going up to 450 FPS although some go to 500 FPS. Makes me feel weak with just 330.

[SHoGuNN3R]

Just added some helmets.

[editline]07:55PM[/editline]

Added Recon Wraps.

[Marine1st]

ESS NVG's, worst resale value which means, good for you, as in $90 MSRP goggles are "Like New" on eBay for $20. They make turbofans too but those are rarely on ebay for anything lower than $190.

Oakley A-Frames are their "military" goggles. Black frames, clear lenses. They also make ones with fans, very rare however.

I wore Oakley M-Frames once and someone said "No safety glasses" and I'm all like, "puuushaa"

[BlueSaint]

[QUOTE=L_Dawg;18813696]The first thing that came to my head with that first picture was "3M". I wear a full facemask with [b]mesh[/b] anyway. It's basically a requirement because the field I go to is mostly [b]CQB[/b] with AEGs going up to 450 FPS although some go to [b]500 FPS[/b]. Makes me feel weak with just 330.[/QUOTE]

hmm.

[xXEnder007Xx]

[QUOTE=BlueSaint;18822151]hmm.[/QUOTE]

Thinking the same thing.

Mesh + CQB + over 450FPS = shattered bbs into your eyes.

[L_Dawg]

Hasn't happened at all. I checked the mesh on my mask using some guys gun that fired that sort of power and the BB held quite well.

[Noodle Ninja]

[QUOTE=L_Dawg;18829984]Hasn't happened at all. I checked the mesh on my mask using some guys gun that fired that sort of power and the BB held quite well.[/QUOTE]

Thought it would pierce right through when the dude was about to shoot it

[L_Dawg]

As did I but it didn't. I'm quite amazed

[SHoGuNN3R]

[QUOTE=L_Dawg;18829984]Hasn't happened at all. I checked the mesh on my mask using some guys gun that fired that sort of power and the BB held quite well.[/QUOTE]

All those guys are firing ICS BB's.

Trust me, it might happen some day.

[L_Dawg]

Might but also might not. Seems like a slim chance. Now I feel as though it might happen to me next time I play.

[BlueSaint]

The moral of this story kids is DONT WEAR MESH WHEN PLAYING AIRSOFT OR YOU ARE NOT GOING TO HAVE FUN WHEN YOU HAVE TO GET A DOCTOR TO PICK THE FRAGMENTS FROM YOUR EYES!

[L_Dawg]

I need to get around to replacing the damn thing anyway. Lost some of the screws and it's too small.

[P4TCH]

Quality mesh gives no trouble...

[editline]04:37PM[/editline]

Or I think so, it gave none to me

[64k1]

A buddy of mine swears by his mesh mask over anything else. Then again, the mesh is a type of metal that's more than enough to handle the 350 FPS limit of our local field.

[Zaitzev]

The mesh itself holds plenty, the problem occurs when a BB explodes into tiny fragments and you get them in your eyes. I read something about high quality BBs are less prone to shatter, but that doesn't do you much good if an opponent is using crap quality BBs.

Mesh facemask is brilliant for preventing fogging, but I would never use it at all in places involving high velocity projectiles.. but what do I know, I have yet to even play airsoft. Just my two cents I guess :v:

[BlueSaint]

If you wear a mesh mask you should have soem form of protection over them.
Or just not wear the mesh.

[Noodle Ninja]

Wear a welders mask L_Dawg

[BlueSaint]

[QUOTE=Noodle Ninja;18856977]Wear a welders mask L_Dawg[/QUOTE]

no.
Do not do this.
Get a half face mask and wear goggles, this way you don't look like a tool and it costs less.

[SHoGuNN3R]

[QUOTE=BlueSaint;18870524]no.
Do not do this.
Get a half face mask and wear goggles, this way you don't look like a tool and it costs less.[/QUOTE]

Or Balaclava.

[64k1]

Balaclava/Recon wrap + Flakjack goggles = money saving solutions for saving teeth and eyes.