KM-19 (ShL type helmets) A Russified modification of the USAAF A-8B continuous flow oxygen breathing mask that used a rebreather bag (similar to that found on the KM-15i) and incorporated bilateral circular sponge discs for exhalation (sponge enhanced anti-icing effects). Somewhat rare and difficult to find today.
The KM-19 oxygen mask (Fig. 3.8) consists of: the mask base, the headgear and the adjustment straps. The mask base 1 has a nose spring 3, two sponge valves 2 for the exit of exhaled air, a tee 4 to which the rubber oxygen supply hose 5 is attached, a fitting for attachment to the indicator tube and a rubber bag 6 with a removable cap 7.
Before the flight, the mask is adjusted by adjusting the straps 8. The base of the mask should be adjusted so that the upper edge does not cover the eyes, and the lower part fits the chin. The oxygen mask is put on in the same way as a gas mask. An indicator is designed to control the supply of oxygen, which consists of a base, a bulb and a float. The floating position of the float in the bulb indicates that oxygen is supplied to the paratrooper normally. KM-19 oxygen masks are part of the aircraft equipment.
