From Fencing Wiki - Powered by Fencing.Net

Masks:

1) Look over the mask, all trim is secure and can not catch a blade, no holes on the outside of the bib and it is secure with no spaces between the bib and the mask, no sharp edges, strap is secure.

2) Run hand over front of mask looking for dents.

3) Hold it up to a light looking for irregularities such as broken wires or wires out of place.

4) Look at the side mesh. Is it the same size as the front.

5) If you find anything in 2, 3, and/or 4 this is where you test. 2 to 5 tests should be enough.

6) FIE masks to current specification are not required to be tested, but may be tested if the Armorer feels it is justified.

There are 2 types of Mask checkers the solid top and the open top.

Both are used by placing the point at the site to be tested and used with a steady pressure. The closed top is pressed down until the bottom of the tester comes in contact with the mask. The open top is pressed down until you can feel the top of the plunger with your thumb or visually see it reach the top.

If in testing the point goes into the mask far enough to get to the shoulder; the mask fails and should be marked appropriately in large letters on the bib with a permanent marker.