Andy Smith
MIne-action specialist
 
Manual demining protection
Blast visor, head-frame and scratch-guard
 

 

The AVS blast visor has been made and marketed for years by a commercial company in Africa (some 30,000 made and sold). [As always, I retain no commercial or other interest in its exploitation.] It is made by heat-forming 5mm untreated polycarbonate in a special oven. 

Each visor is numbered for identification and replacement purposes (polycarbonate degrades in sunlight so I recommend that visors should usually be replaced each year).

The visor has an AVS head-frame that is made from ballistic aramid for durability, and covered with waterproof nylon. The fixings are made from heat-formed polycarbonate, which provides durability and the flexibility to adjust to any head size. Inside the head-frame is a removable washable sweatband to add to the wearer’s comfort. The straps are fastened with velcro and so are readily adjustable, allowing the visor to be shared within a demining set when that is wanted.

The complete visor weighs around 1kg (2.2 lbs). An optional cotton sun-hat gives full shade to the wearer’s head the neck.

A short visor for dog-handlers was made by request. Notice that the lower edge is tilted toward the face to limit the risk of debris getting beneath and entering the eyes. The same head-frame was used. I personally prefer this visor because it is easier to see through (closer to the eyes) and allows free communication. This means that I have no reason to raise it while inside a risk area.

Specifications
Nominal dimensions: 30 x 23cm
STANAG V50: 280 m/s
approx,
Nominal weight of v
isor, headframe and scratchguard:
1 kg (2.2lb)