Ventus Respiratory TR2 Tactical Mask: A Comprehensive Review
A few years ago, we were introduced to Ventus Respiratory (formerly known as O2 Tactical) through one of our suppliers. Who produce the TR2 tactical respirator. We rigorously tested this product and found it worthy enough to offer on our old webshop, where it sold quite successfully.
Now, with our move to Switzerland and some shifts in our partnerships, we reconnected with Ventus Respiratory and renewed our collaboration—this time, working directly with them. The TR2 has since been upgraded, now featuring a CE-certified filter that offers even greater protection.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the reasoning behind the TR2, explore its compatibility and features, and share some test results and available accessories. By the end, you’ll understand why we believe every serious shooter should consider this product.
But before we dig into this subject if you want quality gear and like our work, please support us by buying over our store!
Objective Review and Disclosure
Before we dive in, a quick disclosure: while this is a product review, we aim to provide an objective perspective throughout, with our personal opinions clearly marked at the end.
We originally purchased these respirators a few years ago for personal testing, with no financial incentives influencing this review. Over the past few years, we’ve put the TR2 through its paces during tactical shooting courses, at our local shooting range, and even during outdoor runs. We’ve tested it thoroughly to ensure you can make an informed decision based on this review.
The Importance of Respiratory Protection in Shooting Environment
When discussing products like the TR2, the conversation often centers around the risk of lead poisoning. While lead (Pb) is indeed a significant concern, there are numerous other hazardous elements and particulates that can be harmful during shooting, working with explosives, or even just being present in certain environments.
These include heavy elements such as Antimony (Sb), Bismuth (Bi), Strontium (Sr), Uranium (U), and more, all of which can be present during shooting activities. Even silica dust from shooting through glass, mold, fungal spores, asbestos, and general dirt and dust can pose serious health risks.
The danger with these particles is that their health impacts tend to accumulate over time. The symptoms may not be immediately noticeable but can build up slowly, leading to irreversible damage or illnesses.
Low exposure can already result in chronic illnesses or disabilities, including airway restriction, reduced oxygenation, fatigue, bleeding lungs, and even acute respiratory diseases. Antimony exposure can lead to blood poisoning, nausea, and sleep disturbances, while Uranium is linked to kidney damage and lung cancer. Mold exposure is also known to cause silicosis and neurotoxicity.
Recent research has begun to establish links between these exposures and various illnesses, with police and military personnel being particularly at risk. Statistics show that respiratory illnesses among military personnel are nearly double those of the general population.
We’ve spoken with a Swiss company specializing in indoor shooting ranges, and they’ve confirmed that ventilation remains a significant concern. Even the best systems can only do so much, and when shooting suppressed, back pressure can direct even more harmful fumes into your face.
TR2 Test Results: Real-World Data
To put the need for the TR2 into perspective, we’ll share some data provided by Ventus. These results were obtained from tests using the TR2, with data averaged from six different users. The filters were also tested by an external laboratory to ensure unbiased results.
Outdoor Range Test: Conducted by SF operators using 1,500 rounds of 5.56 carbine, 400 rounds of 9mm pistol, and 60 rounds of 12-gauge shotgun. The results showed lead levels five times over the daily threshold, Bismuth 36 times, Strontium 40 times, Uranium 90 times, and Antimony 170 times above the limit.
Indoor Range Test: Conducted with FMJ rounds for 5.56 and 9mm by police and military. The results were Strontium 2 times, Bismuth 3 times, Lead 6 times, Uranium 82 times, and Antimony 292 times over the daily threshold.
CQB and Breaching Test: Performed by SWAT using 100 simunition rounds, 30 9mm rounds, and 10 door charges. The results were Lead 3 times, Uranium 70 times, Strontium 150 times, Iron 154 times, Antimony 485 times, and Bismuth 900 times above the daily threshold.
These results highlight the significant exposure to harmful particles during shooting activities, even in environments where you might assume you’re protected. Simply washing your hands isn’t enough to counteract the effects of what you inhale during these sessions. This is why lung protection is essential in these situations.
The Evolution of the TR2 and Its Features
The market has seen various respiratory protection products over the years, especially those designed for extreme environments under the CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) classification. However, few products cater to the needs of shooters and tactical operators—this is where the TR2 comes in.
The TR2 consists of two main components: the filter and the mask. Let’s start with the filter, the P2O2.
FILTER
The updated TR2 filter now has a CE certification, meaning it meets specific particle filtration standards. It’s classified as P2, with a filtration efficiency of over 94% according to EN 143:2021 standards.
While it narrowly missed the P3 classification (the highest possible), it still performs exceptionally well. The filter is certified for solid, non-oil particulates, including aerosolized lead, mold, and fungal spores, as well as oil-based particulates.
It’s designed for multiple shifts, unlike many other products that are restricted to one-time use (Except for heavy oil use). The new filter offers approximately 15% reduced inhalation resistance compared to the original, making it even easier to use during high-intensity activities.
MASK
The mask itself is designed for compatibility with a wide range of facial profiles and is eyewear and NVG compatible.
It can be worn with or without a helmet, and the low-riding seal doesn’t interfere with chin straps. Comfort is also a priority, with a low-profile design that minimizes cheek weld interference and flex zones for improved comfort and head articulation.
The mask features a downward-facing vent to prevent eyewear fogging and offers simple filter replacement. Weighing only 145 grams, it’s compatible with both the new and old non-CE filters.
Accessories and Additional Features
HELMET INTEGRATION KIT
This accessory integrates the TR2 with multiple helmet rail systems, including the Galvin Revision Viper, OPS-Core ARC, and Team Wendy Rail 3.0 systems.
MICROPHONE KIT
The comms kit integration provides clear communication capabilities by connecting directly to the most common headset systems. Simply remove the boom mic and plug in the TR2 microphone.
Real-World Experiences and Final Thoughts
In Belgium, we knew an instructor who suffered from lead poisoning—a severe condition that’s challenging to manage. We’ve also experienced symptoms ourselves after indoor shooting sessions, including dry throats and headaches, which research suggests are caused by exposure to these elements. Additionally, after weekend courses, we often found ourselves snorting residue for days, and after shooting suppressed our faces were covered in residue. However, once we started using the TR2, these symptoms disappeared.
The TR2 is comfortable and lightweight. While it does add an extra piece of gear to your setup, the health benefits far outweigh the inconvenience. You may need to adjust your headgear when first using it, but the reduced resistance of the new filters makes physical exertion easier. It’s worth noting that it can get warm under the mask during intense activity, and communication without the microphone kit can be muffled. Despite this, we’ve found no issues with cheek weld interference, and for instructors, a solution is being developed to allow them to do their job while staying protected.
In conclusion, the TR2 is one of the most universal and effective solutions for protecting against harmful particles during shooting or tactical operations. We highly recommend it to anyone who regularly engages in these activities, considering it an essential piece of PPE for military and police personnel. The TR2 is valuable even for training sessions, and its applications extend beyond shooting, making it suitable for scenarios such as drug interdictions, industrial accidents, and even airsoft where toxic exposure is a risk.
We’re all accustomed to protecting our eyes and ears—now it’s time to protect our lungs with the Ventus Respiratory TR2.
Hopefully this blog was helpful for you. If you’re looking for these sort of products, accessories and much more cool stuff make sure to visit our webshop.
