Belgian M-51 Gas Mask
The Belgian M-51 gas mask (officially known as the A.N.P. M-51 or Appareil Normal de Protection modèle 51) is a military gas mask that was used by the Belgian Armed Forces from the early 1950s until the 1990s. The mask is a licensed copy of the French ANP M51 gas mask. The Belgian variants were primarily produced by the Companie Bergougnan Belge (CBB).
History and Use
After the Second World War, the Belgian army needed a modern, standardized respiratory system to replace older models like the M.29. This led to the introduction of the M-51, which saw an exceptionally long service life. It was finally phased out in the 1990s and replaced by the more modern BEM-4GP gas mask.
Key Features & Specifications
- Material: Made of thick, molded natural rubber (usually brown or olive green in color).
- Filter Connection: Equipped with a 40mm NATO thread (DIN thread), which was very modern at the time, allowing standard NATO filters to be fitted.
- Lenses: Two separate round eyepieces crimped into the rubber with metal rings (often painted greenish-brown or olive green on the Belgian version).
- Harness: A sturdy six-point rubber head harness that ensures a consistent fit.
- Valve System: The exhalation valve is located at the bottom behind a flat, metal grid (the outlet valve cage), which sits slightly flatter and deeper on the Belgian version compared to later French modifications.
- Identification: Original Belgian masks are stamped under the chin with the letters CBB (Companie Bergougnan Belge), the year, and the size.
Size Markings
The sizes are embossed with Roman numerals on the chin of the mask:
- I: Large
- II: Medium (fits approximately 80% of adults)
- III: Small
