Body armor can be one of the most beneficial self-defense items out there. This equipment has saved thousands of people, many of them law enforcement officers. It is important to know how to properly use and care for your body armor for it to be the most effective. This is why we have put together a quick beginner’s guide for body armor.
Proper Fitting is Key
The first thing to look at when getting body armor is the size and fitting. It is important that your body armor fit correctly or it may not provide the best protection. You need to know what size is right for you and the straps must be adjusted correctly. If you gain or lose a significant amount of weight, you must also readjust the setup for proper fit.
Cleaning Your Body Armor
When it comes to cleaning body armor, you need to be very careful. Improperly washing or drying your body armor can completely ruin it. The best practice is to check the manual that came with your armor or contact the manufacturer for the best cleaning practices.
There are some practices you should avoid when cleaning body armor. Do not:
- Machine wash or dry body armor
- Use bleach or other harmful chemicals
- Dry clean your body armor
- Dry body armor outdoors, as UV rays can degrade certain ballistic fragments
For cleaning the actual plates, it is a good idea to check the manufacturer’s recommendations. These plates can often be cleaned by wiping them down with a damp cloth or sponge and then air-drying afterward. It is important not to leave the plates wet or submerged, as this can degrade them.
Always Inspect Your Armor Before Wearing
You should regularly inspect your armor for cuts, tears, or other damage. This is a critical step, as it could be a matter of life or death if your armor is damaged. Be sure to check the entirety of the armor, including cloths and plates, to ensure that everything is in order. Check for things like tears, cuts, cracked plates, or separation at the seams. Separation at the seams or creases/folds can be a sign that the armor does not fit right and you need to get it fixed. Do not attempt any sort of repairs yourself. You should send the armor to the original manufacturer so that they can properly repair it or replace it if it is ruined.
Learn More About Your Body Armor
Overall, there is much more to learn about proper body armor setup and care. This is meant to be a cursory guide for beginners, but you should further educate yourself so that you will put your armor to the best possible use. It may be tempting to use your armor right away, but taking the time to learn about and care for it is critical.
Looking to Purchase Body Armor?
If you are looking to purchase your first set of body armor or want to see the options out there, check out our selection at Security Pro USA. We offer multiple choices so that anyone can find the right gear. Our company is run by former military officers, law enforcement officers, and soldiers, which means that we completely understand your security and protection needs. Feel free to reach out with any questions regarding our inventory.
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