HEFFAY
Contributor
Once you get use to it, you wouldn't want to go back...
That's what I'm afraid of. $$$$$$$$
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Once you get use to it, you wouldn't want to go back...
Some older models were not made of silcone (and are still available, I think) and were real crap. The rubber would break down and crack within a matter of months. I don't know how useful this style mask would be for the recreational diver, but for what I do with it, it's great. I can't imagine going back to a regular mask.These have been around for a long time. Cressi and Poseidon made them before IST did a copy I believe.
Some older models were not made of silcone (and are still available, I think) and were real crap. The rubber would break down and crack within a matter of months. I don't know how useful this style mask would be for the recreational diver, but for what I do with it, it's great. I can't imagine going back to a regular mask.
I own, and use, a KMB mask from 1973. I am not sure of the designated number, maybe a 2? I know it is a Navy Mk1. It is plastic, instead of fiberglass (EOD I'm told) and was distributed by US Divers back then. Have had it worked on at Morse a few times. Sometimes I use a hose and bailout (and comms), sometimes just scuba, and comms, if there is no entanglement issues and it is fairly shallow. That is usually for a quick recovery and tie in. I don't, always, use a standard harness as I have an old bc in case I need lift for me. Most of my stuff is recovering dropped or broken equipment, or raising sunken boats and barges. For boats and barges I used a standard equipment configuration, hose, comms, bailout, harness, etc.
I also own a KM Exo-26. I like this for vehicle recoveries, and inspection work, as it is lightweight and again I can use scuba and a comm-line to make it easy and safe.
I've been using the IST mask for many years. Simple, reliable, no frills, pretty much indestructable. Perfect for my needs.
The band mask you describe is most likely a KMB-10. Orange or red plastic shell with all the usual band mask parts. I owned a KMB-9 which is similar, but it was stolen from the Long Beach aquarium when I loaned it for a display. :depressed: