How To Improve The Lifespan Of A Bulletproof Vest?

Most people are under the mistaken impression that as long as a bulletproof vest has not been damaged, it has a long lifespan. However, the older the vest gets, the less protection is offered by it. Therefore, it’s extremely important you understand what affects the lifespan of a bulletproof vest to ensure you replace yours when it’s absolutely necessary.

The majority of NIJ-certified body armor vests can maintain their ballistic capabilities for a minimum of five years. There are some dyneema body armor vests that have a seven-year ballistic capability. When you’re ready to buy, the best thing you can do is some research into the different models.

What You Should Know To Extend The Lifespan Of Bulletproof Vests

There is one key aspect that greatly affects the lifespan of bulletproof vests:

How well it’s maintained and taken care of 

A vest that’s been cared for the right way will last much longer than one that’s been poorly or never maintained. What do you need to be aware of?

Washing Your Vest

In order to lengthen the lifespan of body armor, you must make sure it’s cleaned regularly. Most vest carriers can be placed in the washing machine. Most concealable outer carriers are washing machine friendly, as long as the hard plates are taken out first.

No Sunlight or Liquids

It’s imperative that the ballistic interior of the vest is not exposed to direct sunlight or liquids.

Proper Location

You need to make sure that your vest is properly stored, usually in a place that allows you to lay it completely flat. Too often, people opt to hang them up or place them in a drawer.

How Often The Vest Is Worn

Did you know that the amount of time you wear the vest can also affect its lifespan? If you wear it every day, the lifespan of the bulletproof vests diminishes. Thus, it will need replacing much sooner than a vest that’s been rarely worn.

How The Vest Is Worn

Another thing that can drastically reduce the lifespan of body armor is the way in which it’s worn. Moisture, heat and flexing can affect the panels and, in turn, affect the body armor’s lifespan.

A person’s weight will also affect the lifespan of bulletproof vests. If a person loses a significant amount of weight, it can place stress on the ballistic panels. These panels are designed to fit snuggly up against the body. If a person increases in weight, the vest could crease and the ballistic panels could become damaged.

Replacing A Damaged Carrier

A bulletproof vest carrier can also become damaged. Therefore, regular inspections of the carrier must also be done to make sure that they fit well. If you notice the straps are starting to stretch or the Velcro doesn’t work like it should, it may be high time to buy a replacement carrier. When the carrier is damaged, it decreases the lifespan of bulletproof vests and drastically reduces its protection level.

It’s imperative that your vest fits properly and that adjustments are made so the armor works as it should. To ensure the lifespan of body armor, you must maintain it, properly store it and replace the carrier when called for. Do this, and the bulletproof vests will last for an extended period of time.

The moment you notice any wear and tear or damage on your vest, you need to replace it right away to ensure your safety.

Source: BodyArmorNews.com