Quick verdict
- The Fortis LP is coated steel mesh, weighs only 48 g and is tested to 500 fps.
- Its memory-foam nose bridge adapts to your face after a couple of game days.
- Worn over the edge of glasses, the mask feels like it is not there.
- The one-size Balaclava V3 is stretchy, breathable and fits under a size S/M helmet.
Watch the video
It’s unboxing and review time for the NB Tactical Fortis LP mesh mask and the Balaclava V3 in camo. Short version: it just works. Here is why this combo became my face protection.
NB Tactical Fortis LP mesh mask
The mesh looks great. It’s made of steel, but it has a coating that makes it look and feel like rubber – it even gives a warm feeling on the face. The logo at the bottom is a nice touch, and there is a QR code that takes you to the user guide for their products.
The edges are covered with a rubber trim, which makes the mask comfortable on your face and stops it from slipping.
| Weight | 48 g |
|---|---|
| Tested durability | 500 fps |
| Material | Coated steel mesh, rubber edge trim |
| Nose | Memory-foam nose bridge |
The memory-foam nose
The one feature that really interested me is the nose section. According to the user guide, the foam has memory properties, so there is a fitting process: it starts when you put the mask on for the first time, and after the second day of play it has adapted to the shape of your face.
For me personally, the best feeling is when I put the outer edge of the mask over the edge of my glasses. Then the mask literally feels like it doesn’t exist.
NB Tactical Balaclava V3 (camo)
The box boldly claims this is the first balaclava made for airsoft. The V3 camo version comes in a multicam-tropic pattern, and NB says the cut and materials have been revised to make it more comfortable and durable than before. The mouth area is a 360-degree elastic, reinforced polyamide-nylon blend.
It comes in one size only. I wear a size S helmet and it fits nicely – it’s definitely elastic and should fit everyone. What actually made me buy it is the maker’s claim: high breathability and coolness, antibacterial, hypoallergenic and oil resistant.
Together
Mask and balaclava together give full face coverage with no gaps, and they work well with my goggles and helmet. One fun side effect: when you see someone on the field with a “big nose”, you know they’re wearing NB Tactical.
Verdict
- Pros: very light (48 g), comfortable rubber edges, memory-foam nose that fits your face, works great over glasses, breathable balaclava that fits under a helmet.
- Cons: premium price compared with generic mesh masks; the distinctive nose shape won’t be for everyone.
See how it fits with the rest of my kit in the helmet setup, and read why face protection matters in Airsoft 101.
Gear in this article
NB Tactical Fortis LP Mask
Coated steel mesh, only 48 g, rated to 500 fps, with a memory-foam nose bridge that moulds to your face after a couple of games. Worn over the edge of my glasses, it feels like it is not there.
NB Tactical Balaclava V3
Breathable multicam-tropic balaclava made specifically for airsoft. One elastic size – it fits nicely under my size S/M helmet and pairs perfectly with the Fortis mask.
Airsoft player, YouTuber, photographer & software developer. I film my games and gear tests for the GFA Airsoft YouTube channel and write about the gear and lessons that make a difference on the field.
