Are Old Police Bullet/ Stab Proof Vests Safe to Use? Understanding Warranty Durability
When discussing the safety and effectiveness of bullet-proof and stab-proof vests, one common query arises: are old police vests still safe to use, and what about those labeled as expired?
The term "expire" might lead to unnecessary concern, as it isn't quite the right descriptor. A more accurate term is "no longer under warranty/guarantee." Most manufacturers provide a warranty/guarantee of about five years for these vests. However, does this mean that vests beyond this period are unusable?
Understanding Material Degradation
Vests age naturally, and factors like sweat, humidity, and exposure to UV light can impact their performance over time. Yet, the five-year warranty is more about setting a conservative lower limit for performance. This means that, despite potential natural aging, vests can still perform well beyond this period.
As a point of reference, some vests have been tested on shooting ranges that are more than 20 years old, and they still effectively stopped various calibers, including 9mm, .45, and .357 Mag. While these vests might be extra cautious to use, they are often still functional and reliable.
Effects of Wear and Tear
The more a vest is worn, the more its integrity is compromised. Factors such as exposure to rain, moisture, and repeated washing can significantly reduce its effectiveness. For instance, a patrolman's vest that was stored in a car trunk for a few months might show minimal wear. Such a vest can be quite cost-effective, especially when you find it unused and nearly new.
Testing and Maintenance
If you do come across an old police vest, you can test its performance through specialized testing methods. Additionally, regular maintenance such as proper cleaning and storage can help prolong the vest's service life. For example, older vests from the early 1980s were shot with various calibers, and the maximum penetration was limited to four out of nine layers. This vest was still Level 2 at 15 years old, indicating that it is still effective.
Comparing New and Used Vests
When it comes to a used vest, consider the age and conditions of the vest. A two-year-old vest might show signs of degradation if it was frequently exposed to heat and humidity, and a decade-old vest with a lower rating might be in a better condition. However, investing in a new vest is always the safest option, especially if you plan to use it frequently.
For occasional use, many used vests can be sufficient, provided they are in decent condition and still bear the brand name and model. In such cases, it is possible to purchase new panels to ensure the vest remains effective. Some enthusiasts have even managed to upgrade their old vests by replacing the worn-out panels with new ones, as seen in the example where a police level 2A vest was combined with new level 2A and level 1 panels, along with a level 3 metal plate vest with a similar upgrade strategy.
It's essential to understand that while older vests can still be functional, the safety margin for wear and tear is much smaller. Therefore, if you need to use a vest consistently or in danger-prone situations, it's best to invest in a new one.
Overall, the key to using older vests safely is to evaluate their condition, perform tests, and maintain them properly. However, the decision to use them regularly should be based on a careful assessment of the risks involved.