respirators

I use a "3M" repirator that I bought at Home Depot. It was about $25. Your can buy replacement filters for it for around $12, which last a very long time anyway. Works very well.

A 3M 6000 or 7000 series half mask with 6051 filter would be spot on. The 6&7000 series aren't usually supplied with filters as there are so many to choose from - the 6051 is an organic vapor filter & is more than suited to most of what you mention.

6000;

7500;

6051 filters;

I haven't used a respirator since I was in the trenches at Verdun...

I have a 3M 6000 and it works very well, indeed.  Mine came with the NIOSH vapor filters (which you need for paint and other chemicals) as well as a set of particle (dust) filters that snap on over the vapor filters.

No matter what I spray, I cannot smell a trace of it while wearing this respirator.  I do always open a couple windows to let the stuff out of the house, in addition. 

I got mine at Lowe's, for about $30, which included the filters.  It's a "must"  investment for anyone who is involved in our hobby.

I have a 3M 6000 and it works very well, indeed.  Mine came with the NIOSH vapor filters (which you need for paint and other chemicals) as well as a set of particle (dust) filters that snap on over the vapor filters.

No matter what I spray, I cannot smell a trace of it while wearing this respirator.

I have the same one. If it's good enough for asbestos, it's good enough for me!

I'm wondering if mine doesn't fit well... I can always smell a bit of the paint when dealing with Mr Color lacquers.  It's not strong, but it's there.  Of course when I take the mask off if the room hasn't finished venting the smell can knock you over, so the mask is getting most of it, but if it's supposed to be perfect I may have to look into something different...

NervousEnergy

I'm wondering if mine doesn't fit well... I can always smell a bit of the paint when dealing with Mr Color lacquers.  It's not strong, but it's there.  Of course when I take the mask off if the room hasn't finished venting the smell can knock you over, so the mask is getting most of it, but if it's supposed to be perfect I may have to look into something different...

As well as fit, is it possible that you have incorrect filters fitted?

Particulate / dust & mist filters are often sold bundled with masks as they are cheaper than organic vapor / gas filters - if you're looking for protection when using Mr Color paint, you will need organic vapor / gas filters.

The cheaper particulate / dust filters are adequate for most water based acrylics, but Organic vapor / gas are good for everything that you're likely to encounter, including adhesives, fillers, primers, lacquers, enamels & acrylics (that aren't water based).

I've never used a respirator in my life. Is that like...Bad? I never really even thought about it . 

Milairjunkie

As well as fit, is it possible that you have incorrect filters fitted?

Particulate / dust & mist filters are often sold bundled with masks as they are cheaper than organic vapor / gas filters - if you're looking for protection when using Mr Color paint, you will need organic vapor / gas filters.

The cheaper particulate / dust filters are adequate for most water based acrylics, but Organic vapor / gas are good for everything that you're likely to encounter, including adhesives, fillers, primers, lacquers, enamels & acrylics (that aren't water based).

It uses GMA / OV filters, so I assume I'm covered.  How much does a light beard affect fit?  I may just have to crank it down.  It's looking likely I'll have time to paint some engine parts for the Eduard Emil tonight, and they'll be a combination of Mr Color, Alclad, and MM Metalizers.  Definitely an organic vapor workout!

Having never worn a respirator the fit has always been kind of a mystery. 

OK, from boot camp.

Put the mask on your face and adjust straps for fit.

Place hands over filter intake(s) and suck in.  Mask should seal against skin, collapse a bit and STAY tight until hands are released from intakes.  If it does, you have a biohazard/gas proof fit.  If not you have a problem.

Having had a full beard (trimmed to regulation) and several fire fighting / DC courses, I never had a problem attaining a gas tight seal.  I would suggest that you make sure your beard is trimmed around your neck (just below your jaw line), and your upper cheek bones clear.

Reid