Avon Protection showcased its improved chemical bacterial radiological nuclear (CBRN) protective safety products at the 2024 Shooting Hunting and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show in Las Vegas. Key among the company’s products was its enhanced ST54 multi-mission self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) with newly expanded certification.

The ST54, according to the company, provides the base for a multi-mission respiratory protection system designed to keep the wearer safe, operating for longer, and working more efficiently. Avon Protection said the latest variation of the ST54 provides increased wearer comfort, improved durability, optimized weapon sighting, and conformity to the strict requirements of the updated NFPA1986:2023 standard.

Customizable System

The ST54 provides users with a customizable high-performance system with flame hardening, breathing performance, rough handling, and passive speech in a package that can be integrated into tactical kit profiles. Wearer agility in the field is maximized via the system’s ergonomic clam shell back frame with enhanced stability and weight distribution, Avon Protection said. The ST54 also features a new ‘drag handle’ for emergency extraction and cobra buckles for quick-drop capability.

Upgraded Breathing Performance

Other recent improvements to the system include upgraded breathing performance with reduced exhalation resistance and the addition of a new clear outsert providing higher abrasion resistance, the company said.

Pneumatic improvements include an overpressure protection device that protects the system from over-charging or damage, even if connected to higher-pressure charging sources, and an optional remote lightning fill.

Remote dual trans-fill located on the user’s right side of the waist belt provides a connection to rapidly trans-fill between two SCBAs.

Additional CBRN Gear

The ST54 was on display alongside Avon Protection’s full range of tactical operator CBRN protection equipment, including:

• The Modular integrated Tactical Respirator (MiTR) concept — a new type of integrated respirator system for operational applications that don’t require full CBRN protection

• The CBRN protective suit concept, designed to integrate with the widely deployed CBRN respiratory masks

• Exoskin CBRN boots and gloves for international military, special forces, and first responder markets

Team Wendy

Avon Protection’s sister company Team Wendy exhibited its range of ballistic and bump helmets, including the newest Epic line of ballistic helmets.

“In operating contexts where conditions can deteriorate rapidly, the ST54 provides a respiratory protection system that keeps operators performing effectively over long periods. Combined with the range of Avon Protection CBRN-protective garments and Team Wendy helmets, we are demonstrating tactical kit at the cutting edge of safety and capability,” said Jamie Snyder, senior director of business development and sales, commercial Americas, Avon Protection and Team Wendy.