V-Force Grill: A Review

[shadow_772]

Length of use: More than 1 year

Price paid: $89.95
Pros: Comfortable, Stylish, Easy maintenence
Cons: Possibly price

Background Info:
The only mask I used before I bought a set of V-Force Grillz was the stock Tippmann mask that comes in the "Tippmann 98C Power Pack." I had decided that that mask just didn't cut it, and I needed something that performed much better. I did some research, and decided to buy the V-Force Grillz. Although I use E-Vents now, I do not regret buying the grillz and using them. The Grillz are great masks, and you get what you pay for.

Looks:
Some people say you look like a "bug" or an alien of some sort when you put it on, but most love the agressive styling of the Grillz. A lot of the newer, higher end masks are starting to have a more "agressive" style to them. When I used Grillz, I used Reverse Green/Black Grillz (Pretty much Olive Drab/Black) with an amber lens. I must say it looked good.

Comfort:
Although I prefer my E-Vents, they are both Extremely comfortable masks. It is really personal preference. If you are thinking about buying either, I recommend you try them both on first and figure out for yourself. Either way, they are both awesome masks, but as I said, it is all personal preference.

Field Of Vision:
A good field of vision, not the best, but still an excellent field of vision (as it should be with all high-end masks).

Ventilation:
Good ventilation, I wouldn't ask for more, but wouldn't take less. If you are breathing really hard, you can feel it but despite this, the mask still doesn't fog. Overall, I say ventilation is all around pretty good.

Lens Changing/Maintenance:
Extremely easy to change the lens. The E-Vents are just as easy, but you don't do it in the same way. The removable foam is also an excellent idea, and allows you to quickly change out sweaty foam between games. The only flaw I have HEARD of, but NOT EXPERIENCED with this mask is that it will tear near the strap (near the back of the mask). I used mine for over a year without this problem though.

Recommendation:
I definitely recommend this mask. It is an excellent choice, and you definitely get your moneys worth. Although, if you are considering a new mask, I recommend you try out a few. I am happy I switched to the E-Vents, and I would say try a few out before you buy one, because they perform very well, but you may find you like one more than another.

[Aych]

another reason to buy a grill, i've had my basic mask that came with my 98 and its starting to let me down. i know what i'm getting now! great review

[shadow_772]

I am glad I could help. But I must say, try before you buy. I recommend trying:
V-Force Grills
Empire E-Vents
Vents (which ever is the one that is the same as E-Vents but with hard ears).
JT Proflex

They are all very nice masks and it is all personal preference. I prefer E-Vents myself.

[T-Freak]

Good review! ive owned Grills before and Loved them until i bought my ProFLex I like it a little bit better.

[mtaylor]

I've had an issue with the facemask on my grills ripping-the rubber "ribs" seem a little fragile, and I no longer use the mask due to the holes made.

[shadow_772]

Good review! ive owned Grills before and Loved them until i bought my ProFLex I like it a little bit better.

I agree actually. My top two favorite masks of all time (so far) are E-Vents and Proflex's. I plan on getting a set of proflex's when I can afford another mask.

I've had an issue with the facemask on my grills ripping-the rubber "ribs" seem a little fragile, and I no longer use the mask due to the holes made.

I remember reading about that when you posted up on special ops. Did V-force ever send you another or anything?

[tubby 2]

I've had an issue with the facemask on my grills ripping-the rubber "ribs" seem a little fragile, and I no longer use the mask due to the holes made.

that happens to me

[Aych]

omg i just got my grill in the mail today..... very supurb comepared to my old mask, (scott brand) i really love how easy the lense change is

[shadow_772]

Lol, I also went from a crappy Tippmann/Scott mask to a Grill, quite the change huh?

[Aych]

yea a HUGE change in comfort, cleanablity, and sweet awsome looks.

[shadow_772]

I agree. But I must say, switching from a mask like that to any high-end mask is going to make a HUGE difference.

[BoKnows]

I have a Proto Switch mask at my fingertips, should I buy? I like the Turbine fan option, which I can also get. Is it worth it? I need a mask none the less, but I don't want to replace something inferior in 6 months, I'd rather spend the money now.

[shadow_772]

I have never used the mask myself, but I have good experiences with the JT Proflex, E-Vents and Grill.
I will be picking up a set of Dye I4's in the near future as well. I tried a pair on and they were the most comfortable mask I have ever worn. You just have to have a small head.

I have found fans in masks to be useless myself. I wouldn't bother using one. A good mask with thermal lens will do much better good for you. I recommend in this order:

Dye I4
Empire E-Vents or JT Proflex
V-Force Grill

It is all preference though. I reccomend you look at some reviews on the www.pbnation.com review section and the www.pbreview.com website. Just be careful which reviews you listen to, and read up. If you can, go to a pro shop and try out as many masks as you can.

The main reason I dislike V-force, is because the lens is not true thermal. They have a thermal coating that I found to wear off after a couple cleanings, even just using a microfiber cloth.