Do bullet proof vests expire

Answer 1

Yes.

If the vest has not been shot or stabbed or otherwise forceably attacked, the synthetic fibres in the vest will slowly degrade.

Most manufacturers suggest at maximum lifespan of 5 years in normal use. Storing the vest in a place with high humidity, constant exposure to direct sunlight and moderate to high heat will also shorten the lifespan of the vest considerably.

The above applies to most vests sold for civilian and police work in the USA. I do not know the standards applied to US Military equipment, but it would unlikely be any longer, and likely much shorter due to the considerably tougher environment most military vests find themselves used in.

After ANY hit or stab, the vest should be replaced.

Answer 2

Yes and no. Given enough time I suspect that the fabric will get brittle (we are talking decades). Cops that wear the same vest on a regular basis need to get them replaced due to wear and tear (I think it is something like once every 6 months or two years). If you shoot the heck our of a bullet proof vest, it will no longer be effective at dispersing impact and multiple rounds in the same area may penetrate.

Standard bullet-resistant vests have about a 5-year lifespan, before their fibers are sufficiently weakened by exposure to heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. If the vest is exposed to an excessive amount of any of these, it will degrade much quicker. This is why, for the most part, standard "tactical" vests are stored in a cool, dark place and don't have to be replaced as frequently as the everyday vest officers wear on patrol.

In addition, ANY time a vest stops a bullet, or the vest is stabbed or otherwise cut/penetrated, it should be replaced, as its protective nature is compromised.

Answer 3

when you get shot die you will know