How to Test and Maintain Your Hard Armor Plates

Protecting yourself and others with hard armor plates is a responsibility you take seriously. After all, ensuring your armor is in optimal condition can make all the difference in a life-or-death scenario. But how do you know if your hard armor is performing as it should?

This blog walks you through the essentials of testing and maintaining your hard armor plates, so you can stay prepared and protected. From understanding when to perform checks to proper care and storage, we’ve got you covered.

Why Testing and Maintenance Matter

Hard armor plates are an investment—not just financially, but in safety. Regular testing and maintenance ensure they remain reliable over time. Factors like wear and tear, accidental drops, improper storage, and exposure to harsh conditions can affect a plate’s integrity. Proactively inspecting your plates minimizes the risk of failure when you need them the most.

Many products, like those offered by Everyday Armor, are tested to meet National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standards. However, even the best equipment needs periodic checks to maintain peak performance over its lifespan.

When to Test Your Armor Plates

1. Upon Receiving Your Plates

Always inspect your plates when they first arrive. Look for any visible damage, manufacturing defects, or irregularities from shipping. If you notice anything unusual, contact the manufacturer immediately for assistance or replacement.

2. After an Impact Event

If your armor has endured a ballistic strike, it’s time to retire that plate. Even if it appears intact, the structural integrity may be compromised, making it less effective in future situations.

3. Periodic Inspections

Schedule regular inspections of your armor plates—quarterly or semi-annually is a good rule of thumb. Consistent checks help identify wear and potential compromises early.

4. If Plates Have Been Exposed to Harsh Conditions

Exposure to extreme heat, cold, water, or corrosive environments can impact the effectiveness of your plates. Be diligent about inspecting for damage whenever your armor has been subjected to these conditions.

How to Test Your Hard Armor Plates

While professional testing facilities follow rigorous NIJ standards, you can perform basic checks at home to assess the condition of your plates. Here’s how to get started:

1. Visual Inspection

Check for visible cracks, chips, or dents on the plates. Pay extra attention to the edges, as these areas are more prone to damage. Be on the lookout for signs of wear such as fading materials or exposed fibers.

2. Tap Test

Gently tap the surface of the plate with a non-metallic tool, like a rubber mallet. Pay attention to inconsistencies in sound—hollow areas may indicate internal damage or separation.

3. Feel for Structural Issues

Run your fingers over the plate’s surface to detect warping or deformities. A straight and smooth surface is essential for optimal performance.

4. Check Coating or Covering

For plates that include anti-spall or water-resistant coatings, ensure these are intact with no peeling, cracks, or punctures. Damaged coatings could expose the plate to environmental conditions that reduce performance.

5. Refer to Manufacturer Guidelines

Always follow instructions provided by your armor’s manufacturer. At Everyday Armor, for example, products are rigorously tested in certified labs, and the company offers detailed maintenance resources for their customers.

How to Maintain Your Armor Plates

Testing your plates is only half the battle—prolonging their lifespan requires proper maintenance. Follow these best practices to keep your armor plates in top condition.

1. Store Plates Properly

Keep your armor dry and store it in a cool, temperature-controlled environment. Avoid leaving your plates in direct sunlight, high heat, or high humidity, as these conditions can weaken the materials.

2. Use Dedicated Storage Bags

Invest in a suitable storage bag to protect your plates during transport or when not in use. This helps prevent accidental damage and exposure to contaminants.

3. Avoid Dropping or Mishandling Plates

Even though hard armor plates are built tough, repeated impacts from drops can compromise their structural integrity. Always handle your plates carefully to avoid unnecessary damage.

4. Clean Plates Regularly

Use a soft, damp cloth to remove grit, dirt, and debris from the surface. Avoid abrasive cleaning tools or harsh chemicals, as these may damage the protective coating.

5. Regularly Verify Manufacturer Warranties

Stay informed about your plates’ warranty period and replacement policies. For example, Everyday Armor offers a satisfaction guarantee and stringent quality control to ensure maximum reliability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid the following pitfalls to ensure your armor remains effective over time:

• Ignoring Manufacturer Guidelines: Always adhere to the care and testing recommendations provided by your armor’s maker.
• Postponing Regular Inspections: A delay in inspecting your armor could mean using compromised gear during critical situations.
• Improper Storage: Leaving armor in inhospitable conditions—like the trunk of a hot car for weeks—can drastically reduce performance.
• Reusing Post-Impact Plates: Never attempt to re-use plates that have absorbed ballistic impacts. Even small surface deformations can mean serious performance reductions.

Trust in Certified Testing and Standards

When selecting and maintaining hard armor, certifications matter. Always look for NIJ-certified plates that meet or exceed required standards for ballistic protection. The Everyday Armor Product Testing Page showcases rigorous testing videos and certifications so you can trust their reliability.

Stay Safe and Protected

Your safety depends on the reliability of your equipment. Testing and maintaining your hard armor plates are essential practices for ensuring peak performance and longevity. Whether you’re wearing your gear daily or storing it for emergencies, the extra effort in care and inspection can make all the difference.

Visit Everyday Armor to explore high-quality, certified products and learn more about protecting yourself and those you care about.

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How to Test and Maintain Your Hard Armor Plates

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Learn how to test and maintain your hard armor plates to ensure they perform when you need them most. Inspection tips, storage advice, and maintenance rules included.