Yes.
By measuring your chest circumference.
With standard sizes (6″, 8″), it is made to cover your lethal zones on the torso (heart, lungs, kidneys) without extending further due to weight. To make the correct choice, you can use the Size Chart in the Tech Specs or the Determine Size at the settings screen on the top of the page.
The most significant advantage is the absence of ricochet, as it protects both the operator, their comrades, as well as the environment of the team from secondary damage and injuries. Also, the ICW3USP is significantly lighter than any steel plate of comparable size.
Officially, 5 years.
The date is calculated from the manufacturing label on the back of the plate. While good maintenance and handling can preserve the plate ballistic capabilities for longer, we will only guarantee five years from manufacturing.
Not instantly.
Due to chemical processes and oxidation occurring inside the composite material, the anti-ballistic capabilities of the armor plate will slowly deteriorate over time. After five years, we no longer guarantees the same level of protection and you should renew your plates as soon as possible.
Armor plates are tested under the NIJ standard to withstand up to 6 consecutive hits. While that number can be greater, we can’t guarantee that result.
It is not recommended.
You may continue operations with a damaged armor plate due to composite materials that, when damaged, only a tight zone of the armor fails. Undamaged zones still offer ballistic protection. However, you will need to replace the armor plate after the mission as further use is prohibited.
Especially over extended missions, every pound counts. Because the ICW3USP is significantly lighter than the alternatives, that weight can be used for other types of gear such as ammo or med-packs, or serve to lighten the load in general and make the operator more agile and less fatigued over time. Finally, lighter gear reduces the medical impact of carrying heavy loads on the spine and lower back, reducing the chance of chronic pain and injury.
This product has been independently tested in NIJ-accredited laboratories according to the NIJ Standard 0101.06, as well as certified laboratories according to DSTU 8782:2018. against Soviet/Russian ammunition.