Catalyst Surplus

"No, body armor does not have a fixed expiration date in terms of material degradation." Used Protech FAV vests donated to Ukraine by the Vermont State Police in 2022 This article covers used armor in the context of properly manufactured and quality controlled armor, generally from reputable American manufacturers, compliant with strict government contract regulations. Body armor doesn't simply expire from age alone, but like any physical product, its ballistic materials can sustain excessive...

Choosing the right plates and carrier can make the difference between effective protection and unnecessary bulk, gaps, or discomfort. This guide breaks down the key factors: sizing, plate types, performance levels, shapes, curvatures, and carrier styles so you can select surplus gear that fits your needs and performs reliably. Building for Your Use Case Selecting the right plates and carrier depends first on how and why you'll use them. Different situations demand different priorities:...