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Posted: 8/26/2015 2:57:33 PM EDT
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I know these plates are out of production, but are they still viable?
Found a plate dated 0503 and am wondering if it's worth throwing in a carrier, or throwing in the trash. |
| They don't "go bad", but you'll want to check for signs of wear/damage/abuse. The front ceramic strike face is thin (1/4" ish), check around the edges for chipping or flaking. Check the thick edges all around for any evidence of fraying or peeling in the dyneema backer (the larger 3/4" ish thick part of the plate material), and check for any weird stains that might indicate exposure to chemicals that could compromise the dyneema. Give the front face the knuckle-test for larger cracks in the ceramic: balance the plate ceramic-down on you fingertips, lightly rap the ceramic with a knuckle and listen. If it's a dull "thud", you may have a crack in the face; if it's more of a ringing sound, like you would expect from knocking on a pane of glass, then it's likely intact. |
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I am by no means an expert, just a frequent lurker. I recall this question being asked in a thread a while back. I believe Layer60 replied saying something about the glue holding the plate together becoming brittle over time and that they would come apart after being hit. Maybe he will chime in with more updated info.
That said, new level 4 ceramics are rather affordable these days. I for one am weary of buying pre-owned armor. I would buy new even if just for peace of mind. |
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