JT Spectra flex-7, nVader, Proshield, Dye Invision, BE Xtreme Vision, Vforce Morph, Shield
Marker Setup:
'02 STO Outkast Eclass cocker, Dye Ultralite 2 piece, Superfly Delrin bolt, Free Flow Kit, Planet Eclipse E2 frame, drop foreward/cradle, PMI pure energy 88cu HPA tank, Empire B Reloader
Strengths:
Se Below
Weaknesses:
See Below
Review:
I've only played about 16 games in this mask.
The Fit
This mask wears very well, light and airy without losing a tight profile. The lens is a bit large, and sticks out considerably farther than the Invision but thats a reason I purchased it, so I can finally wear my eyeglasses when I play. The glasses do not touch the lens but interfere with the nose foam, though it loses none of its comfort. I do not think the lens size takes anything away from this mask. Once properly adjusted I had no slippage even in dives or aggressive play. I saw no underprotected areas and have no concerns about being hit in the jaw. Though slap over the ears may be an issue.
The Manufacture
This mask is well made, I was concerned about the rubber panels at first but they are extremely solid. I do not however foresee any bounces with the rubber in the front OR over the ears. The front panel is somewhat thick and while it does have give it does not compare with the JT Flex series. There is no foam spacers over the ears so slap may be an issue if hit over the ear. I will add to the review once this happens to me. There was some extra rubber inside mine when I got it but I simply cut it off. The mask also comes with a visor and a Stubby which protects the forehead and streamlines the mask a bit more. This may take a few bounces as it is soft and very flexible. I use neither in my play. This mask is a little wider when viewed from the front due to the size of the lens. The lease with which the lens can be changed is amazing. I am used to the spectras which can be a pain, and the invision which is an involved job. This is a breeze. Not as easy as the newer masks this can still be swapped out, cleaned a ready to go in less than a minute. The lens in also not encased like Dye or JT so no goo can get under the edge, huge thumbs up to VForce.
While playing it was 80* with around 70% humidity. I had no fogging or condensing, no slippage. My only concern while playing was that while breathing hard the mask tended to be noisy as it had less venting in the front than I am used to. Audibility was fine and hearing was uninhibited in the least. I really enjoyed the rubber panel in front, I hold the beavertail of my cocker against the front of my mask and this was easier to do as it tended to 'stick' rather than possibly slide with the plastics of other masks.
Conclusion:
Not quite as comfortable as my Invision, but well made and I can wear my glasses. Tight and light, with prices dropping, I paid $60 USD, yet starting to get a little harder to find, I'd very much recommend this as the main mask to use for newbs or those with more experience. I swapped the Dye for this with no regrets. 9