Body Armor Expired in 2006… Does It Still Stop Bullets?

Published on January 23, 2026
Duration: 6:43

This video from Tap Rack Bang, LLC, led by Chief Instructor Ernie Medina, tests the ballistic performance of soft body armor that expired in 2006. Despite its age, the ABA Xtreme Armor vest, manufactured in 2001, demonstrated a surprising ability to stop initial handgun rounds. However, repeated impacts in a tight grouping eventually led to some projectile penetration, highlighting the degradation of materials over time. Medina advises that while expired armor may offer some residual protection, it should not be relied upon for primary duty use.

Quick Summary

Expired body armor may still offer some protection, but its reliability is significantly reduced. A five-year warranty is standard, reflecting material degradation from environmental factors. While older vests can stop initial rounds, repeated impacts may cause penetration, making them unsuitable for primary duty use.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Expired Body Armor Explained
  2. 01:15Vest Specs & Expiration Date
  3. 02:01Initial Ballistic Test: First Shot
  4. 03:18Stress Test: Multiple Rounds
  5. 05:52Conclusion: Can You Trust Expired Armor?

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is body armor typically warranted?

Body armor, particularly soft concealment armor, typically comes with a five-year ballistic warranty. This period accounts for the expected degradation of ballistic materials due to environmental factors like heat, UV exposure, and general wear over time.

Does expired body armor still offer protection?

Expired body armor may still offer some level of protection, as demonstrated in tests where older vests stopped initial rounds. However, its reliability is significantly reduced, and it should not be depended upon for critical duty use.

What causes body armor to expire?

Body armor expires primarily due to the degradation of its ballistic materials over time. Factors such as exposure to heat, UV light, moisture, and physical stress can break down the fibers, reducing their ability to effectively stop projectiles.

What is the purpose of a body armor warranty?

Body armor warranties, typically five years, serve as a manufacturer's assurance of the vest's ballistic performance for a specified period. They also act as a liability measure, acknowledging the expected lifespan of the materials under normal conditions.

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from Tap Rack Bang, LLC

View all →