Can We Wear an Expired Ballistic Suit? What Are the Risks?

There are two types of ballistic suits: hard armor and soft armor. Each type has its strengths and weaknesses, so you must understand what will best protect you based on your intended activity and environment. Soft armor degrades faster than hard armor because it is more susceptible to damage in hot and humid environments. Over time, bulletproof vests can age and the tenacity of the fibers can decrease significantly impacting ballistic resistance. In addition, improper storage can also lead to the accumulation of moisture, which in turn can lead to premature degradation of the ballistic material. So can expired ballistic suits be worn?

1. Learn about the risks of expired ballistic suits

Let's put it this way. If food expires, we know we might have problems if we stick to it, right? The same goes for expired ballistic suits. Its wearer may experience protection issues if he or she continues to wear it. Many wearers say the complete bulletproof suit is still usable and doesn't degrade immediately a day after its expiration date. However, keep in mind that we're not talking about ordinary clothing here. The gear we looked at might be the only one that will save you from dying. But your ballistic suits must be reliable and undamaged at all times.

Using an expired, worn-out bulletproof vest can result in serious bodily injury from shooting or being attacked by a sharp object. In the worst case it could even lead to death. It is for this reason that it is critical to follow the bulletproof vest factory's guidelines and recommendations regarding product expiration dates. Because even if you think your armor is still usable after it expires, the unfortunate consequences could be against you after all.

2. How often should you change your ballistic suits

It is recommended that you regularly evaluate your ballistic suits, including your bulletproof vest, etc., for signs of internal and external damage. Ask an expert to check it out for you if you need to, especially if you're on a mission. If you notice signs of degradation in your gear, you should replace it with a recently manufactured model.

It is important to note that, depending on the circumstances, you may need to replace the vest before the estimated expiration date. Remember to choose the right bulletproof vest for you, with the right size and the right type of armor. Ultimately, the result we want is that you are safe in the face of danger.