Good armor lasts years if you treat it right. Heat, moisture, drops and folding are what wear it out early.
Storage
Store armor flat or hang the carrier on a sturdy hanger in a cool, dry place. A hot car trunk is one of the worst places to keep it.
Cleaning
Remove the ballistic panels or plates before washing a carrier. Wipe soft panels with a damp cloth. Never soak or machine wash them unless the label says you can.
How long does it last?
Most soft armor carries a five-year warranty. Plate warranties vary by maker and material. Go by the date on the label and the maker’s warranty, not by how it looks.
When to replace it
- It took a hit, even if it stopped the round.
- A ceramic plate was dropped hard or shows cracks.
- Soft panels are torn, creased or soaked through.
- It is past the maker’s warranty date.
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