Helly Hansen Gas mask - Model LFC

This page contains all known information about Helly Hansens model LFC gas mask.

Helly Hansens LFC mask.

The History of the LFC Model

The LFC model was one of Helly Hansens military masks and was issued to the Navy. On most LFC masks is marked with "Sjøforsvaret" which means "Navy". The LFC is one of the more advanced Helly Hansen military masks, compared to the IMA and IMB which does not have a voice diaphragm. The mask was used by the navy for an unknown period until it was replaced by the NM16 (Swedish M-51).

This photo shows Norwegian sailors wearing the LFC into a CS gas chamber at Håkonsvern in 1968.

Helly Hansen - Model LFC

The mask consisted of a big open visor which streched down the right side of the mask. The LFCs oral nasal cup was made up of green PVC as the mask itself and was transparent around the edge. The mask was equipped with voice diaphragm, which could be unscrewed. The exhale valve had the same shape as used on the IMA, IMB, and LF-62. The LFC mask used a thin 40mm filter which had the exact same color as the mask itself. The designation is not known.

Norwegian soldiers in the Navy wearing the LFC carrier, 1973.

The Manual for the LFC, much like other manuals containted detailed drawing of the mask which also pointed out each component of the mask.The carrier for the LFC is made out of a green PVC covered fabric and cardboard pieces to keep everything in blace on the inside. The carrier has an unusual shape not seen in any other Helly Hansen carrier and is more robust than the other carriers.

The carrier has a solid and adjustable fabric strap and closes with a thick fabric piece. The fron of the mark is marked with "Sjøforsvaret" which stand for "Navy".

A chef onboard the KNM Trondheim wearing the LFC while preparing pancakes during an ABC exercise.