Spray mask question
 

My old trusty ( probably too old ! ) 3M face mask/respirator is shot. What is a good model to replace it with ? Need protection from sanding mid 70's OLD SeaCraft lay-ups :) - the majority of it's use, spraying paint as well as spraying Awl-grip.

The one I have is 15 years old - a 3M 7281.

Looking for the under $40 type - not a full face mask.

I'd rather hear from a pro than assume anything when it comes to my respiratory system.

I use the SAS half mask. I like it. I also have a 3m full face. I do wear the full face more. I do not like dust in my eyes or shattering 3m cutting disc in my face. After 3 trips to the eye doctor I wear PPE all the time.

I'm no expert, but do yourself a favor and research the dangers of spraying 2 parts like Awlgrip.

Spraying awlgrip is ok with good ventilation. I make sure I have a clean shave so my mask fits well and new cartridges very often. It does not take long to feel effects of paint. It is bad stuff. However, I did roll and tip my boat and people swear I sprayed it. Can't roll awl raft. I did awlgrip. If I were to( insert ... I want a 27 tournament Seacraft) I will use awl craft. buff able and touch ups are easy. Not so with awlgrip.

I'm awaiting an answer from 3M on the mask spec I want - I'll let you know what they say. As for spraying AwlGrip or Awlcraft, I've sprayed both - I make sure that I have created a draft with an industrial fan sucking air from my spray area to create a good draft and I stay "upstream" from my spray at all times. I have also rolled and tipped and the results are always surprisingly awesome. But, I still would rather spray !

Those paints are not to be screwed around with as the affects can be permanent.

I just had a really bad bronchial cough for 1 month after heavy fiberglass grinding using a mask but also being in my covered boat without a mask breathing in kicked-up fiberglass dust particles. Scared me a bit. I read up on it and although your body will clear it - it ain't good ! In the same read, I read about the similarities and THANKFULLY differences with asbestos - and how that nasty stuff penetrates your lungs - scary !

Be safe !