The airsoft season is slowly getting into gear as more countries around the world are easing on their lockdowns and other countries which have successfully reduced the Covid-19 threat have completely lifted their lockdowns. Sports are now being allowed which happily, also includes airsoft.

If unsure, check with your local authorities if such sports gatherings are allowed and if it is allowed, you may need to consult the precautions put into place by game site owners in order to be allowed to operate. One common precaution is the limit of the number of players that can play at any given time and another is that social distancing should be maintained which means players cannot be bunched up in an area for cover. If someone is already occupying that area and there is nowhere else to take cover, you might as well be prepared to call your hit.

Another important thing is to wear face masks. Not the usual protective masks that we wear when playing airsoft, but face masks that can prevent droplets or aerosols that may be carrying the coronavirus from entering via our mouths, nostrils and eyes. It can be a predicament as airsoft protective masks may prevent you from wearing it together with cloth masks, surgical, or N95 masks.

The solution is a protective mask that can be tactical enough and at the same time can filter out airborne particles, droplets, or aerosols as required in order to be allowed to play. Tactical respirators can be expensive, but if you are looking for one, then you might look into the TR1 Tactical Respirator from Project Black.

Project Black also has the TR2 Tactical Respirator but it is quite expensive, costing over US$200 and thus TR1 is the more affordable as it costs US$79.99 and is 98.6% effective as compared to the TR2 which is 99% effective meeting NIOSH99 standards and can allow for mic kit for comms. For airsoft, the TR1 already is a very effective tactical respirator and is compatible with helmets, protective eyewear and even facial hair for those who have that bearded operator look:

• Compact form factor minimizes training scars
• Replaceable electrostatic filter is 98.6% effective
• Eyewear compatible
• Medical-grade silicone seal
• Adjustable earloop straps allow the TR1 to be donned and doffed without helmet removal
• Works well with facial hair

When purchased the TR1 mask includes 3 electrostatic filters and carrying pouch as part of the package. If you need more filters to fit the TR1 mask, you can purchase a 5-pack for US$7.99.

So if you intend to get one of these, you will need to expect delayed shipments as the Covid-19 pandemic has affected delivery times. But it would be great if you have this degree of protection afforded by the TR1 not only in the airsoft field but even in the streets.