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General Discussion => General Forum => Topic started by: RiverRoost on January 24, 2022, 06:39:03 PM

Title: Facemask debate
Post by: RiverRoost on January 24, 2022, 06:39:03 PM
I'm debating between the Ol Tom mesh half face mask amd their performance half face mask. Anybody use either? Ones all mess and one is a polyester/spandex blend
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: paboxcall on January 24, 2022, 07:00:54 PM
Tried the Ol' Tom, and I much prefer Cabelas / Bass Pro Redhead-brand spandex half mask. The Ol' Tom went to the bottom of gear bag immediately.

The Bass Pro is mesh, breathable, super lightweight. Camo printed on both sides, so no flashes of white when the wind blows. $12.99, bought a couple just to have a few spares. Has a cinch to fit it comfortably, and a small formable frame for the bridge of your nose, so it stays in place. Great length too, cover your neck if only wearing a t-shirt without a collar.

Best face cover I've tried in decades.

Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: WV Flopper on January 24, 2022, 07:35:33 PM
Funny, I don't like the spandex ones. To tight, hot, and bugs bit right through. I bought 5 of the Quaker boy last spring. More my style, but not for everyone.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Matt76cmich on January 24, 2022, 07:47:05 PM
Sorry I can't help you, I use merino wool neck gaiter.

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Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: paboxcall on January 24, 2022, 07:53:40 PM
Quote from: WV Flopper on January 24, 2022, 07:35:33 PM
Funny, I don't like the spandex ones. To tight, hot, and bugs bit right through. I bought 5 of the Quaker boy last spring. More my style, but not for everyone.

Me too, hate tight fitting face masks. But that Bass Pro half mask isn't tight fitting at all. Quite the opposite.

Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Greg Massey on January 24, 2022, 07:56:48 PM
It all depends on the weather, which one's i use, some of those spring mornings can be in the low 30's to low in the 40's .. i have also wore insulated bibs several times during those morning. Same with gloves ... just depends on what i need... toboggan comes in pretty handy also...
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: 310 gauge on January 24, 2022, 08:35:27 PM
I use Nomad Loose Gaiters in Bottomland and Obsession. Works for me hunting Turkeys, Geese, Ducks, or Deer. I pull it over the top of my hat till the only thing you can see is my eyes. Loose and comfortable but still concealable.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Dtrkyman on January 24, 2022, 08:56:22 PM
I never had a mask I liked, switched to a hat with the mask built in and it doesn't touch my face, not perfect but damn good.  Quick camo maybe?
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Sixes on January 24, 2022, 09:14:02 PM
I've went through dozens and hated most all of them.

I've used a floppy hat with a built in mask for a few years and liked it, but last year and the last 2 deer seasons, I've been using a First LIte merino Wind Rive balaclava with a hat on my heat and the balaclava pulled over to the brim.

It's more comfy and doesn't take away from my peripheral vision and doesn't feel tight on my face. Same style as a lot of fishermen use that wear a head cover. Having it over the hat helps a ton.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: ChesterCopperpot on January 24, 2022, 09:54:31 PM
North Mountain Gear makes a good gaiter. I usually run that or the super cheap Mossy Oak mesh style from Walmart that are about $3 apiece.


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Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: RiverRoost on January 24, 2022, 10:25:48 PM
Quote from: ChesterCopperpot on January 24, 2022, 09:54:31 PM
North Mountain Gear makes a good gaiter. I usually run that or the super cheap Mossy Oak mesh style from Walmart that are about $3 apiece.


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Yeah I was looking at theirs too. Just wondered if any are too tight
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: ClayR089 on January 25, 2022, 07:59:45 AM
Nomad's masks are the best that I've tried. Have an adjustable cord so you can make it the tension of your choosing. I've tried the ol tom and many others, but I've settled on nomad. I let be just tight enough where it's laying on my nose, not pulling it tight.


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Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: SwampRooster17 on January 25, 2022, 08:18:42 AM
Quote from: RiverRoost on January 24, 2022, 06:39:03 PM
I'm debating between the Ol Tom mesh half face mask amd their performance half face mask. Anybody use either? Ones all mess and one is a polyester/spandex blend
Between those 2 I prefer the mesh. It's looser/cooler than the performance mask


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Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: RiverRoost on January 25, 2022, 09:18:31 AM
Quote from: SwampRooster17 on January 25, 2022, 08:18:42 AM
Quote from: RiverRoost on January 24, 2022, 06:39:03 PM
I'm debating between the Ol Tom mesh half face mask amd their performance half face mask. Anybody use either? Ones all mess and one is a polyester/spandex blend
Between those 2 I prefer the mesh. It's looser/cooler than the performance mask


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Thanks that's kinda what I'm thinking too. That or the nomad
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: troutfisher13111 on January 25, 2022, 09:28:56 AM
Anyone recommend a mesh 1/2 mask that's camo on the inside too?


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Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: compton30 on January 25, 2022, 09:58:24 AM
I love the Nomad loose fit gaiter. I actually had my old lady get me another for Christmas in case they ever stop making it
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Tom007 on January 25, 2022, 10:18:03 AM
Another vote for Nomad, love the adjustability. Fantastic
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: paboxcall on January 25, 2022, 10:37:38 AM
Quote from: Terry on January 25, 2022, 09:28:56 AM
Anyone recommend a mesh 1/2 mask that's camo on the inside too?

Camo printed both sides, mesh, loose fitting, light weight, super comfy and cool.

https://www.cabelas.com/shop/en/redhead-spandex-camo-half-mask
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Number17 on January 25, 2022, 10:54:14 AM
Last year i bought a section of no see um mesh fabric to try to keep my kids covered up when hunting with me. It was like 12' x 5' and I cut it down to 6x5 to just drape over us. Like the fabric used for blind windows.
I had it while hunting alone one morning and the bugs were getting bag so I pulled it out, tucked 6" of it in the back of my hat and tossed the rest draped over the front of me. My hat brim kept it off my face and the gnats didn't stand a chance. Covered my shoulders and all about down to the top of my boots.
I quickly realized the value of it for concealment as well. It totally breaks up your outline almost as if you're sitting in a blind. Turkeys pay absolutely no attention to you.

I ended up poking a hole in the fabric to stick the gun barrel through. It's so thin you can easily see your sights right through the material. You can work a friction call on your lap and movement is totally concealed.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Number17 on January 25, 2022, 11:00:36 AM
https://www.cabelas.com/shop/en/truetimber-camo-material?rrec=true

This stuff right here. Not sure it's printed on both sides but it's so thin that the camo shows through both sides.
Especially for nap time this stuff is really great.

Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Number17 on January 25, 2022, 11:40:20 AM
Quote from: paboxcall on January 25, 2022, 10:37:38 AM
Quote from: Terry on January 25, 2022, 09:28:56 AM
Anyone recommend a mesh 1/2 mask that's camo on the inside too?

Camo printed both sides, mesh, loose fitting, light weight, super comfy and cool.

https://www.cabelas.com/shop/en/redhead-spandex-camo-half-mask

I had a gift card to burn so I put one of these on the order. I can't stand a tight fitting mask. Lost a good one years ago and haven't found a replacement yet. This might be it..
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Moneyball11 on January 25, 2022, 03:18:11 PM
If you wear a hat this works fantastic. I've used merino, polyester, mesh, and in my opinion this one is the best.

https://www.firstlite.com/products/phantom-3d-balaclava


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Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Sir-diealot on January 25, 2022, 05:06:20 PM
I know this is not the brand you asked about, but I have been using these because of the whole covid thing. I am very claustrophobic and have had a very hard time because of the masks adding heat to my face (if either the mouth or the nose was allowed to be uncovered it would not be a problem) This is very breathable, does not work into that soft area under the eyes and is very comfortable outside when there is a lower temperature or a breeze.

I have not tried them in super hot weather, I carry a hand held fan and just use them together when I have to go to my doctors office or any other place they will not let me in without a mask. Hope it helps and best of luck during the season.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: GunRunner on January 25, 2022, 06:09:46 PM
I don't get these leading outdoor products companies producing camo face masks or even the nice camo zip up fleece I got for Christmas that has a camo pattern on outside and white fabric on the inside.

These folks make their living developing and selling their products to us hunters.....how do they miss details like this.

GunRunner
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: silvestris on January 25, 2022, 07:44:58 PM
Masks don't prevent Covid.  The virus was designed that way.  Thanks, Fauchi.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Sir-diealot on January 25, 2022, 08:33:18 PM
Quote from: silvestris on January 25, 2022, 07:44:58 PM
Masks don't prevent Covid.  The virus was designed that way.  Thanks, Fauchi.
I would have to agree, but in some places I can't get away without wearing one.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Ranger on January 25, 2022, 09:12:53 PM
10,990
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: vthokie7227 on January 26, 2022, 10:04:17 AM
This challenge is why I'm a burnt cork guy. Although, I have found the leafy head net that came with my ASAT leafy suit does a great job (I remember where I put it).
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: dzsmith on January 27, 2022, 12:54:53 AM
I prefer the performance 1/2 mask. Been using one exclusively for about 8-9 years now. Its been one of my faves. It doesnt have too much nose pressure to annoy you. Its not too tight or too loose. I take my hat off , pull my mask up and over my ears and kind up on the back of my head. then i put my hat back on, so it will keep it from inadvertently slipping down. Love it. I have the mesh one as a back up....its ok. i really prefer the other though
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: simpzenith on January 29, 2022, 04:54:45 PM
Quote from: GunRunner on January 25, 2022, 06:09:46 PM
I don't get these leading outdoor products companies producing camo face masks or even the nice camo zip up fleece I got for Christmas that has a camo pattern on outside and white fabric on the inside.

These folks make their living developing and selling their products to us hunters.....how do they miss details like this.

GunRunner

Because they are printed using dye sublimation. It's a cheaper way to print fabric but it has to be printed on polyester. That's why the majority of camo clothing is polyester.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Paulmyr on January 30, 2022, 06:27:59 AM
I use whatever mask is available at what ever store I can find to replace the one I couldn't find when I set up on the last turkey. It's usually laying next to one of the gloves I can't find as well.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: simpzenith on January 30, 2022, 08:48:50 AM
Quote from: vthokie7227 on January 26, 2022, 10:04:17 AM
This challenge is why I'm a burnt cork guy. Although, I have found the leafy head net that came with my ASAT leafy suit does a great job (I remember where I put it).

I tried burnt cork but it was a pain to use and remove so I went back to using kid's face paint from Walmart. Cheap, easy to apply and comes off easily with baby wipes.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Howie g on January 30, 2022, 09:11:05 AM
A few vertical black face paint stripes , pull cap down low works for me .
As a glasses wearer , face mask fog my spectacles up .
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Dtrkyman on January 30, 2022, 11:09:21 AM
If I use face paint it is carbo mask.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: RED NECK on January 30, 2022, 12:06:49 PM
Quote from: Dtrkyman on January 30, 2022, 11:09:21 AM
If I use face paint it is carbo mask.
Carbo is excellent stuff and what I wear bow hunting. I hate anything on my face when I anchor.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: GobbleNut on January 30, 2022, 12:11:16 PM
Can't use a mask due to glasses fogging up regardless of what kind I have tried.  Don't like face paint due to the mess and alarmed looks you get from others if you happen to end up in a public setting with it on.  I use a cap with attached head-net, but I have to cut out the center of the head-net to keep my glasses from fogging (and I don't like ANY of my vision being obscured by the netting)...but at least the rest of the netting covers up my glaring white hair (don't like to call it gray...makes it sound like I'm old or something...  ;D )

So, when a gobbler gets close enough to see me, if I am sitting, I am usually "knees up, head down on the gun, cap down tight".  If I have chosen a prone position for my set-up (which is admittedly rare, but does happen on occasion), the low profile generally eliminates the need for anything but the pulled-down cap. Finally, If I have chosen a standing position (perhaps even more rare), I will be behind something that I have purposefully chosen that offers the needed concealment, not only for my face, but also for the rest of me until it is too late for the gobbler anyway. 

On those occasions when I feel like my face might be just a bit too exposed for my liking (and the gobbler's), I will use my camo-gloved, "off" hand to cover that portion of my face that might be exposed at whatever angle is needed towards the bird(s).  If needed, I will split my fingers around my eyes as circumstance might dictate.  Generally, however, if I have readied myself properly for any gobbler that I know is (or may be) approaching, I have already situated myself such that I "have assumed the proper position" and will have little need to be concerned about whether I have any sort of face covering on or not.   :)

...Bet you didn't think you would get such a complicated explanation about the subject of face masks, huh?....   :angel9:
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: GunRunner on January 30, 2022, 02:08:07 PM
Quote from: simpzenith on January 29, 2022, 04:54:45 PM
Quote from: GunRunner on January 25, 2022, 06:09:46 PM
I don't get these leading outdoor products companies producing camo face masks or even the nice camo zip up fleece I got for Christmas that has a camo pattern on outside and white fabric on the inside?

These folks make their living developing and selling their products to us hunters.....how do they miss details like this.

GunRunner

Because they are printed using dye sublimation. It's a cheaper way to print fabric but it has to be printed on polyester. That's why the majority of camo clothing is polyester.


simpzenith......why can't these manufacturers flip the fabric over and do this sublimation printing process on the backside so we have camo on both sides of the fabric or article?
Sure it will increase cost but I am sure most us here would rather have their masks, and other products fully camoed rather worry about an extra dollar or two. If I get a bit warm in my new fleece and unzip it, the snow white inside is visible like a neon sign.

GunRunner
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: simpzenith on January 30, 2022, 03:09:41 PM
Quote from: GunRunner on January 30, 2022, 02:08:07 PM
Quote from: simpzenith on January 29, 2022, 04:54:45 PM
Quote from: GunRunner on January 25, 2022, 06:09:46 PM
I don't get these leading outdoor products companies producing camo face masks or even the nice camo zip up fleece I got for Christmas that has a camo pattern on outside and white fabric on the inside?

These folks make their living developing and selling their products to us hunters.....how do they miss details like this.

GunRunner

Because they are printed using dye sublimation. It's a cheaper way to print fabric but it has to be printed on polyester. That's why the majority of camo clothing is polyester.


simpzenith......why can't these manufacturers flip the fabric over and do this sublimation printing process on the backside so we have camo on both sides of the fabric or article?
Sure it will increase cost but I am sure most us here would rather have their masks, and other products fully camoed rather worry about an extra dollar or two. If I get a bit warm in my new fleece and unzip it, the snow white inside is visible like a neon sign.

GunRunner

They could but it would nearly double the cost of apparel, not to mention it would likely negatively affect the side already printed because the heat would cause the ink on the previously printed side to start sublimating again. You'll lose intensity (will appear faded) and will drive the ink further into the fabric and become more visible on the other side. That will in turn mess up the appearance on the newly printed second side.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: greencop01 on February 02, 2022, 04:30:23 PM
I use Mossy Oak half mask, mesh with a draw string, great mask cheap and works well. I like old bottomland.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Mbhyman88 on February 03, 2022, 10:17:32 AM
Quote from: Moneyball11 on January 25, 2022, 03:18:11 PM
If you wear a hat this works fantastic. I've used merino, polyester, mesh, and in my opinion this one is the best.

https://www.firstlite.com/products/phantom-3d-balaclava


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Wish they made this in Green Leaf or Obsession.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Mbhyman88 on February 03, 2022, 10:19:23 AM
Quote from: greencop01 on February 02, 2022, 04:30:23 PM
I use Mossy Oak half mask, mesh with a draw string, great mask cheap and works well. I like old bottomland.

I've got a couple of the Mossy Oak store ones and a Nomad one.  Quality on the Nomad is much better and the one that stays in my vest.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Meleagris gallopavo on February 03, 2022, 10:29:18 AM
Quote from: Sir-diealot on January 25, 2022, 05:06:20 PM
I know this is not the brand you asked about, but I have been using these because of the whole covid thing. I am very claustrophobic and have had a very hard time because of the masks adding heat to my face (if either the mouth or the nose was allowed to be uncovered it would not be a problem) This is very breathable, does not work into that soft area under the eyes and is very comfortable outside when there is a lower temperature or a breeze.

I have not tried them in super hot weather, I carry a hand held fan and just use them together when I have to go to my doctors office or any other place they will not let me in without a mask. Hope it helps and best of luck during the season.

I kinda like this one.  Thanks for sharing.  I'm going to look into it.
Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Sir-diealot on February 03, 2022, 01:00:37 PM
Quote from: Meleagris gallopavo on February 03, 2022, 10:29:18 AM
Quote from: Sir-diealot on January 25, 2022, 05:06:20 PM
I know this is not the brand you asked about, but I have been using these because of the whole covid thing. I am very claustrophobic and have had a very hard time because of the masks adding heat to my face (if either the mouth or the nose was allowed to be uncovered it would not be a problem) This is very breathable, does not work into that soft area under the eyes and is very comfortable outside when there is a lower temperature or a breeze.

I have not tried them in super hot weather, I carry a hand held fan and just use them together when I have to go to my doctors office or any other place they will not let me in without a mask. Hope it helps and best of luck during the season.

I kinda like this one.  Thanks for sharing.  I'm going to look into it.
You're quite welcome, hope it works for you.

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Title: Re: Facemask debate
Post by: Turkeyman on February 03, 2022, 02:56:46 PM
Quote from: GobbleNut on January 30, 2022, 12:11:16 PM
Can't use a mask due to glasses fogging up regardless of what kind I have tried.  Don't like face paint due to the mess and alarmed looks you get from others if you happen to end up in a public setting with it on.  I use a cap with attached head-net, but I have to cut out the center of the head-net to keep my glasses from fogging (and I don't like ANY of my vision being obscured by the netting)...but at least the rest of the netting covers up my glaring white hair (don't like to call it gray...makes it sound like I'm old or something...  ;D )

Exactly why I had cataract surgery last October. Glasses thing of the past. Absolutely hated them for either turkey or bow hunting deer. As far as my prefered face mask it's a Quaker Boy bandito or equivalent. I lay claim to be the "inventor" of the 3/4 facemask, but that's a different story.