A bullet resistant vest must last for a couple of years. The standard life span of a bullet resistant vest is five years. Although some manufacturers claim that their bullet resistant vests can last for more than five years. The National Institute of Justice suggests replacement of the bullet resistant vest after five years even though your manufacturer says that it can last longer than five years. This suggestion of the National Institute of Justice is a safety precaution for users. The NIJ has conducted a test on the frequently worn concealable body armors and more than half have failed to pass the minimum protection requirements after five years of service.
Actually, the life of a bullet resistant vest does not only depend on the age of the vest. There are also other factors that influence the life of the bullet resistant vest such as the care and handling of the vest, the frequency of use, the fitting of the bullet resistant vest on the wearer and its overall condition. If the bullet resistant vest is regularly worn, the vest is more prone to wear and tear that can shorten the life of the vest.
Proper care and maintenance is critical in the life of a bullet resistant vest. Misuse and improper care of the bullet resistant vets will not only shorten the life of the vest but will also affect its ballistic performance. Exposures to some factors such as UV light, moisture, immersion of the ballistic panels and improper storage will cause the decrease of performance of the ballistic resistant vest. These factors will weaken the fibers used on the ballistic panels causing a diminished protection provided to the wearer. Moreover, improper use and neglect of the bullet resistant vest can void and nullify the warranty contract making you unable to claim for replacement and free repairs in case of damages and defects.
