A Closer Look at the Russian PMK-2 Gas Mask: Evolution from the PMK-1

Tag : Russian PMK-2 Gas Mask

Gas masks have played a crucial role in protecting military personnel and civilians from toxic gases, chemicals, and other hazardous substances for many decades. In Russia, the development of gas masks has been ongoing, with each iteration designed to improve upon its predecessor. In this blog post, we will delve into the Russian PMK-2 gas mask and compare it to its earlier version, the PMK-1, to understand the advancements and changes that have been made in this essential protective gear.

The Russian PMK-1 Gas Mask

The PMK-1 gas mask was developed in the 1980s as a successor to the GP-5 gas mask, which had been in use since the 1960s. The PMK-1 was designed with several key improvements over its predecessor. Some of its notable features included:

  1. Improved Visibility: The PMK-1 featured a panoramic eyepiece made of impact-resistant polycarbonate, providing better visibility and minimizing distortion.
  2. Enhanced Comfort: This gas mask featured a comfortable rubber face seal that improved the overall fit and reduced leakage.
  3. Drinking System: The PMK-1 was equipped with a drinking system, allowing the wearer to hydrate without removing the mask.
  4. Voice Diaphragm: A voice diaphragm was integrated into the mask, improving communication for wearers.
  5. Filter Compatibility: The PMK-1 was compatible with various filters, including standard Soviet-issue filters and NATO-compatible filters, making it adaptable to different scenarios.

The Russian PMK-2 Gas Mask

The PMK-2 gas mask was developed in the late 1980s and early 1990s as a further refinement of the PMK-1. It retained many of the positive features of its predecessor while introducing several improvements of its own:

  1. Enhanced Filter System: The PMK-2 featured an upgraded filter system, improving protection against a wider range of chemical agents and biological hazards.
  2. Drinking System Upgrade: The drinking system in the PMK-2 was enhanced for better performance and convenience.
  3. Improved Voice Diaphragm: The voice diaphragm in the PMK-2 was further improved to ensure clearer communication.
  4. Comfort and Durability: The PMK-2 continued to prioritize comfort with a more ergonomic design, ensuring a better fit and reducing wearer fatigue during extended use.
  5. Easy Maintenance: The PMK-2 was designed for easier maintenance and filter replacement, making it more user-friendly for military and emergency response personnel.

Comparison Between PMK-1 and PMK-2

To summarize the comparison between the Russian PMK-1 and PMK-2 gas masks:

  • The PMK-2 introduced significant improvements in filter protection and drinking system performance.
  • Both masks featured a comfortable rubber face seal and voice diaphragm, but the PMK-2's enhancements made it even more user-friendly.
  • The PMK-1 was a step forward from its predecessor, the GP-5, while the PMK-2 built upon the foundation laid by the PMK-1.


The Russian PMK-2 gas mask represents an evolution in protective gear technology, building upon the strengths of the PMK-1 while introducing key enhancements in filter protection, drinking systems, and user comfort. These advancements demonstrate the continuous commitment to improving the safety and effectiveness of gas masks for military personnel and first responders. The development of gas masks like the PMK-2 serves as a testament to the importance of staying ahead of evolving threats in a hazardous world.