How to improve the average bulletproof vest lifespan?

Yes, like every other thing, your bulletproof vest has a life span!

There are lot of bulletproof vest owners out there who feel that their vest is still in good shape simply because it is yet to be hit by bullet rounds or damaged. This is wrong. You see, the truth is that the potency of your bulletproof vest starts reducing from the day you got it. So, the older your vest gets, the lesser its ability to offer quality ballistic rated protection. This is why we cannot overemphasize the importance of knowing and understanding the lifespan of your bulletproof vest. This would not just keep you hundred percent safe in the face of ballistic threat, it would also help you know when you need to get a new bulletproof vest.

Most bulletproof vests that have been certified and verified by the NIJ often have the ability to maintain ultimate ballistic resistance capabilities for about five years. After that, they would begin to deteriorate. Dyneema bulletproof vests can have a lifespan of seven years. Therefore, you need to conduct effective research before you drop cash for any bulletproof vest.

If you want to improve the lifespan of your ballistic vest, here are a few tips to get a good result.

• Maintenance is key! Take good care of your vest. A bulletproof vest that is well taken care of will last much longer than one that is not effectively managed.
• Give your vest timely washing and cleaning. To improve the lifespan of your vest, ensure that it is regularly cleaned and maintained. Most bulletproof vest carriers can be washed in a washing machine.
• Before washing, ensure that all ballistic panels and sheets are removed.
• Clean off dirt and scratch from your ballistic panels. Don’t just leave it lying around while you dry clean the carrier. Get a damp cloth and clean the panels. A small quantity of detergent would do no harm too.

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