The Model K mask family started production in 1952 and was used up until the 1970s, produced by Vredestein and Hevea. Between 1951 and 1954, about 400,000 of them were made.
The Dutch Model K gas mask was adopted by the Dutch Military when the Korean war broke out due to the threat of NBC attacks. Before the Model K, they were still issuing British WW2 masks. The designing of the mask started in 1950, followed by the completion of the first mask prototype in 1951 and head harness design in 1952.
Characteristics and features[]
One of the most noticeable features of the Model K gas mask is that the snout piece has two types of rounded threads, a 40mm thread and a 60mm thread. This was done so that 60mm gas mask canisters ,which were in use by other NATO countries, could be used on these masks.
Another notable characteristic of this mask is the exhale valve on the left side of the mask. While earlier samples sport an exhale assembly copied from the Model KNIL with small holes on the outside, they were later updated with a mushroom-shaped exhale valve because the earlier model was prone to leaking. This was discovered in 1956 and ended up becoming a government scandal. In 1957, the first prototype for the new exhale valve was completed and by 1958, they went into mass production. These newer exhale vales had better protection against moisture buildup and made it easier for the wearer to speak through it.
One of the features of this mask is that you can change the lenses by screwing off the shackle on the eyepieces. After doing this, you simply take off the glass and replace it with an undamaged identical replacement.
A Model K NBC suit was also made. A hooded Model K was used with this suit. The hood would be glued to a Model K, and would be adjustable with straps.
Gallery[]
References[]
Dutch militaire spectator magazines
NSC newspaper 11-3-1958