Need Respirator Recommendation

I despise respirators. Unless you have a particular
severe allergy I’d recommend going with the
lightweight paper/cloth ones. The weight on your
face of the rubber one’s is really annoying and
you’ll feel like Darth Vader.

I use a nuisance mask usually. I have a washable
one that works okay and is lightweight and doesn’t
leave my face coated with sweat.

-- http://amherstcabinets.com - also a marketing consultant with expertise in direct response marketing for woodworking and online business building

I out of the choices you have with that company, I would go with one of the North half mask respirators. They have the interchangeable filters, in case you want to get into doing different types of finishes or fuming. Just for dust, I use one that I bought at Sears. It only has one dust filter that attaches to the front of the mask. It’s similar to the half mask, but not as bulky. I have to disagree with Loren. The paper dust mask are only good for filtering the money out of your wallet. I’ve tried them and spent the rest of the day blowing sawdust out of my nose.

-- Tim -- http://tmuli.com

I use the 3M 7500 as recommended by npne other than Marc the Woodwhisperer. I really like it a lot. Very lightweight and does not fog the safety glasses.

-- My woodworking pictures http://s107.photobucket.com/albums/m292/bnoles616/

Whatever respirator face piece you get, make sure it fits properly and that you are using the correct filter for the hazard. FYI, most users over tighten their masks and distort the seal area. Make it snug, but not too tight, then test it by blocking of the inlet and inhaling. If the respirator fits, you will feel it pull towards your face without leaking in outside air. Good luck.

-- Smile. Life can be FUN!

Thanks for your input, guys! And FlWoodRat, I remember all about proper wear and sealing of a mask from my Army days. It only takes one trip into the tear gas chamber to get you paying attention!

-- Eric at http://adventuresinwoodworking.com