Genuine US Military issue
Dated 1969
Very good condition. Both lenses are cracked, right at the very top edge. The cracks are hardly visible, and the mask remains an excellent display piece.
The XM28 was developed and began initial trials in 1966 following a request from the 1st Infantry Division and the 1st Cavalry Division for a compact and lightweight alternative to the general issue M17 gas mask. In the subsequent two years, the XM28 saw four alterations to the design, hence the 'E4' designation until 1968 when the final iteration was completed and full-scale production commenced.
Nicknamed the "Grasshopper" for its unusual appearance, the XM28 gained favour with pilots, LRRPs, Tunnel Rats, and SOG teams due to its extremely lightweight and compact design. The mask can completely fold in on itself which allows it to just barely fit into its waterproof pouch. The pouch features belt keeper clips on the rear to attach it to various equipment but was frequently worn under the shoulder on the suspenders/harness.
While ideal as a lightweight substitute, the XM28 was never intended to fully replace the general service M17. It was only designed to protect the user against riot control agents such as CS gas which was pumped into NVA tunnels preceding a 'Tunnel Rat' clearing. Unlike the M17, the XM28 was not capable of defence against greater threats such as nerve agents, nuclear, or radioactive substances.
Sold as a collectable display item and will not provide any kind of protection against chemical agents.
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