The Black Stallion AH1520-NV is a flame-resistant cotton balaclava with a contoured fit and a circular neck drape, made to be worn under a welding helmet, hard hat or hood. This Black Stallion FR balaclava is arc-rated for PPE Category 2 and is meant as a light FR layer for head and neck protection, not as a winter face mask. The Black Stallion AH1520-NV FR balaclava covers your head and neck under a welding helmet.
Listings for the AH1520-NV do not all agree on the arc rating value, so read the garment label and your employer’s PPE rules before you rely on it. The balaclava was not hands-on tested for this article.
Quick verdict
Best for: Welders and electrical workers who need a light, breathable FR layer for the head and neck under a helmet.
Bottom line: A sensible FR balaclava for moderate-risk work if its rating matches your hazard assessment. It is single layer and one size, so it gives little insulation and fits everyone slightly differently.
Black Stallion AH1520-NV specs at a glance
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Black Stallion (Revco) |
| Model | AH1520-NV, navy |
| Fabric | Single-layer AR/FR cotton |
| Fabric weight | 7 oz per the manufacturer spec sheet |
| Fit | One size; contoured to the head with a circular neck drape |
| Arc rating | PPE Category 2; ATPV shown as 12 cal/cm2 on the spec sheet and 10 cal/cm2 on some listings |
| Standards cited | NFPA 70E (arc flash), NFPA 2112 (flash fire), ASTM F1506 (material criteria) |
| Care | Spec sheet cites protection through 100 home washes; follow the garment label |
| Seams | Flat-seam construction per the Amazon listing |
What the Black Stallion FR balaclava is for
A balaclava covers the head and neck, areas that a helmet and collar can leave exposed to sparks and heat. The AH1520-NV is made from flame-resistant cotton, so it resists ignition and self-extinguishes when the flame source is removed, and it is lighter and more breathable than synthetic or thick fleece balaclavas.
The neck drape is a circular section that hangs down to cover the base of the neck. The contoured cut is meant to sit smoothly under a helmet so it does not bunch.
Understanding the arc rating
PPE Category 2 relates to an arc flash risk level in NFPA 70E. An ATPV (arc thermal performance value) is the rating in calories per square centimeter. The spec sheet from a reseller of the manufacturer lists 12 cal/cm2, while the Cyberweld and some other listings say 10 cal/cm2, and Airgas shows both. Rely on the label sewn into the garment, not the web page, and let your hazard assessment decide whether it is enough.
Safety note: A balaclava is one part of a PPE system. It does not make a task safe on its own and it is not a substitute for a face shield, arc-rated hood or other equipment your job requires.
Who should buy it and who should skip it
- Buy if: you need FR head and neck cover under a welding helmet or hard hat.
- Buy if: you want breathable cotton rather than a hot insulated balaclava.
- Skip if: you need protection beyond PPE Category 2.
- Skip if: you need a fitted size, since it is one size.
- Skip if: you want cold-weather insulation.
Fit, comfort and care
- Try it under your helmet or hood before the first shift to check that the opening does not ride into your line of sight.
- Wash as the label directs and avoid bleach and fabric softener, which can reduce flame resistance.
- Keep it free of oil and grease, which can ignite.
- Retire it when it has holes, thin burned patches or is stiff with soil.
Pros and limitations
Pros
- Single-layer FR cotton, breathable
- Contoured fit with neck drape
- ARC 2 rating cited on listings
- Standards cited for flash fire and arc flash
Limitations
- One size only
- Listings disagree on the ATPV figure
- Little insulation for cold weather
Related reading: Black Stallion AH5040-BK helmet bib | BSX Black Stallion welding cap | Black Stallion BX9C jacket
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Black Stallion AH1520-NV?
A navy, single-layer flame-resistant cotton balaclava with a contoured fit and a circular neck drape, intended for use under helmets.
What is its arc rating?
It is listed as PPE Category 2. The ATPV is shown as 12 cal/cm2 on one spec sheet and 10 cal/cm2 on some listings, so check the garment label.
Can I wear it under a welding helmet?
Yes, it is designed for that. Test the fit under your own helmet before the first shift.
Does it come in different sizes?
No. It is sold as one size, fits most.
Is it machine washable?
Yes. The spec sheet says protection lasts through repeated home washes, but follow the care label and avoid bleach and fabric softener.
Bottom line
The AH1520-NV is a light FR balaclava with a recognizable arc rating and a comfortable single-layer design. Verify the rating on the label for your hazard level, and check the current listing before you buy.
