Oxygen Masks
 

I'm a civ CFI, and this is probably a dumb question, but I've wondered about it. How come some military (usually fighter) pilots wear the oxygen masks whose hoses come straight out whereas others come out from the side?
Straight out - http://www.qmetrics.com/fighter_pilot.jpg
From the side - http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/commun/.../09-18-12b.jpg
I've seen pictures of F-18 pilots from the same squadron wearing different masks, so I wasn't sure if it was a squadron thing or what. Or is it personal preference?

Sorry for the (probably) dumb question. Just curious.

The one coming out the side is the Combat Edge mask. When I was in UPT it was simply a matter of what mask fit better. I found that mask to be far more comfortable.

MBU-20/P Oxygen Mask pressure breathing for G (PBG) capability

I teach IFF now and all pilots (at least in the AF) are issued the combat edge style mask.

Well, the one coming straight out looks waaay cooler. :cool:

I'd definitely say that the MBU-12/P looks cooler. On the other hand, having the hose come out the side is more convenient since the oxygen hookup is over there anyway.

Is it true that the combat edge mask withstands G forces better than the old one? I haven't really worn mine since pilot training. I definitely haven't pulled G's in it since UPT.

I have flown alot with both masks(both in T-45s and F/A-18s) and I prefer the old style to the combat edge. It is all about pilot preference and how it fits to each individual's face. There is alot to be said for how the riggers build up your equipment to make it fit right as well. Each mask is designed to withstand the G forces that are incurred in flight, some just fit better than others making it more comfortable.

The one downside I see to Combat Edge masks is the visor fit. The Gentex masks seem to fit the visors designed to be used with them better. The CE visor I have doesn't fit tightly around the CE mask and creates some glare issues at some angles or over your shoulder etc.