Korean war US Navy Respirator FPI Model 2000 -
This is a Respirator device. As used during the Korean war for working in confined areas with
little ventilation or where exposure to deadly airborne chemicals is likely.
The item featured on this page is the FPI Model 2000 Compressed Air Breathing Apparatus. Manufactured
by Fluid Power inc.
The respirator comes in a wooden box that is fitted to accomodate all the different components.
They fit snugly which makes it perfect for traveling because the items will not be damaged. The
instructions are attached to the inside of the lid. Two metal lateches secure the lid in the
closed position. A black plastic handle is attached for ease of carrying.
The system consists of two tanks with independent valves connected to a regulator which feeds to
a rubber mask via the use of a black ribbed hose. It is interesting to note that the mask is
an adaptation of the standard US Army gas mask used during
World War two.
The biggest difference between the masks is that a rubber hose attachment has been built onto
the side of the respirator's mask.
It was a common practice for manufacturer's to re-use items left over from WWII because of
the large number of stock that was created during the war.
This page is a recognition and identification guide for Korean War US collectibles. Multiple
detailed photos of a specific sample are provided. Descriptions point out clearly defined
points that should be noted.
One of the most commonly asked questions is "How much is my US collectible worth?".
A price guide is included here to address this question. The value of the collectibles
is reviewed over a period of several years. A trend can be observed. The present worth
of US militaria in the collector's market is illustrated.
This service is provided free of charge to the visitor/enthusiast courtesy of
MilitaryItems.com,
a company dedicated to the preservation of military history and to providing quality military
antiques and collectibles to museums, institutions and the general public.
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A metal tag is riveted to the device. The tag reads:
Demand regulator
S/N Model No 2050
Fluid Power Inc
Mecedonia, Ohio USA
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The top of one of the tanks has the following markings stamped:
in addition to these markings, the word "AIR" is stenciled with large, white letters on the back
of each tank. The valves for the tanks are facing to the floor when the equipment is being used
by the person.
This Korean War US military collectible may be currently
reproduced.
It is becoming more difficult to be able to tell the fake ones from the real ones because
the quality of the reproductions is improving. The collector must become familiarized with
the construction style and materials employed in the manufacturing of this item.
Attention to the details is critical in order to be able to determine the authenticity of
the collectible.
If you have an interest is seeing other Korean war US military collectibles, you can do so by
going to our
US Military Collectibles Price Guide.
Where we cover items from the Army, air Force, Navy and other organizations.
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