MCU-2/P Gas Mask Review
Well, this review has some age on it at this point, and we’ve looked at some fantastic masks since then. For a more up-to-date take, check out The Best Gas Mask for Tear Gas, Viruses, and Nuclear Fallout.
MCU-2/P Gas Mask Technical Info
- Full-face CBRN protective mask
- Single lens for wide field of view
- Material: unimolded silicone rubber
- Worn Mask Weight: 30 oz
- Total Weight: 3.1 lbs
- 6-point adjustable harness
- Ballistic poly-carbonate outer lens
- Nylon mildew-resistant carrier bag
- One C2A1 canister filter (40mm NATO)
- Filter Weight: 10 oz
What they got right on the MCU-2/P Gas Mask
The MCU-2/P gas mask is a solid protective mask for chemical, biological, and radiological personal defense. The one-piece lens allows a wide, unobstructed field of vision. The profile of the mask is sleek and the mask is relatively light for a full-face mask. The uni-molded silicone rubber construction provides a good seal and provides protection against many different threats. The six-point harness is easily adjustable, and the medium mask fits a large portion of the adult population. The drinking straw and the ability to move the canister to the opposite side both provide some versatility to the mask.
The canister is widely available at surplus stores, and you can usually find maintenance valves and accessories too. Some great accessories include the voice-emitter (if you have the MCU-2A/P model), an M-1 canteen cap to use the drinking tube or even a Camelbak adapter. The mask is easily cleaned by removing the filter and submerging it in warm, soapy water. Do not use bleach or alcohol wipes, or it may speed up lens yellowing and rubber dis-bonding.
What they got wrong on the MCU-2/P Gas Mask
The MCU-2/P, despite all of its great attributes, has several downsides as well. The mask is known to have issues with dis-bonding, which is where the lens or the metal pieces of the mask separate from the silicon rubber face piece. This ruins the mask, so inspecting for this should be routine if you own this mask. Another downside is the one-sided filter.
The filter weighs 10 ounces, and the mask weighs 30 ounces altogether- so the filter is 1/3 the mask weight. With the filter offset, it can make the mask feel unbalanced and can often get in the way since it protrudes pretty far out. Lastly, the mask can break down when exposed to mustard chemical agents. This caused it to be issued with a ‘second skin’ in the military, which improves possible exposure time to mustard gas.
Our experience with the MCU-2/P Gas Mask
I have had my MCU-2/P gas mask for over 9 years now. I have worn it for up to 12 hours straight in the presence of CS gas and nerve gas. I never had a problem with a seal or failure, so it has served me pretty well. The field of vision is unmatched, but I do have some trouble lining up rifle sights while wearing this mask with the hard outsert on it. Overall, this is a pretty good mask in my experience.
The Verdict
The MCU-2/P gas mask is a solid choice as long as you understand its shortfalls. There are plenty of accessories and filters at military surplus stores, making the mask relatively easy to maintain. The medium size fits a wide range of people, making it versatile and a good choice for family members.
Where to Buy
You may be able to find the MCU-2/P at a military surplus store. You can also find the MCU-2/P online as either a used mask or military surplus:
The Final Word
The MCU-2/P can be a steal to find at military surplus stores, but it does have its shortcomings. You can check out our comprehensive gas mask guide to see our thoughts on the best gas masks available for comprehensive protection or value.
We highly recommend checking out the guide to determine your gas mask needs and not just the type of gas mask you should have. Keep exploring, stay prepared, and be safe.
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Would you be able to explain how to use the mask carrier, as well? Thanks in advance!
You typically position the carrier on your off-hand hip. So if you are right handed, on your left hip with the opening always facing forward. The longer strap goes around your waist. The shorter strap around your leg. There are a few extra clips and straps on the carrier that are used to attached it to MOLLE/ALICE, or a load belt.
You can also wear it like a bandolier across your chest with the large strap if you feel like channeling your inner Rambo.
You have a miss type. It is a 40mm NATO standard canister.