Best Respirator??

[Jerry Olexa]

What do you guys think is the best respirator ( dust mask) for general woodworking and dust control? As I work on this Cherry project, I'm picking up a persistant cough that I've never had before in many years of woodworking. Thanks in advance. Jerry:(

[Jamie Buxton]

Jerry, I say that the best respirator is one that fits your face. Faces come all sizes and shapes, as do respirators. The key is to find the one that seals to your face. Gaps around the periphery mean you might as well not be wearing the thing.

A second thing to look for in a respirator is the ability to wear your favorite eye protection. And a third thing to look for is a strap system which keeps the respirator on your head.

I shopped around until I found a half-face respirator which fits my face, and which allows me to wear my bifocal safety glasses comfortably. It is a 6200 mask from 3M. It comes in various sizes, which helps the fitting issue. You can get dust filters for it, or you can get organic vapor filters if you're doing things like spraying finishes. They're about $15-$20. One supplier is http://www.envirosafetyproducts.com/

[Michael Ballent]

Obvious answer is to try to collect as much as you can at the source before it becomes air born. The 3M ones are good the ones that have the one way valve so you are not breathing as much hot air. I believe that Ken bought a Triton resperator for his turning work. Full face helmet, ear muffs and filtered air all in one unit. Pricey but cheaper than a doctor bill. If you do not have dust collection in the shop try to get it installed before buying other toys :D

[Kevin Arceneaux]

http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?t=10207&highlight=respirator

I prefer MSA or Norten

[Ken Salisbury]

I purchased the Airshield by Trend - see this thread:

http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?t=9834

I LOVE IT ! ! ! !