TM10-8400-203-23
15-5, REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE OF BODY ARMOR – Continued
h. Ballistic Insert Assembly.
(1) Inspection of ballistic insert (see Figure 15-3),
1. Carefully examine the insert for any damage, If the insert has been ballistically or physically
damaged in any manner such as evidenced by a hole, or cut, do not repair and do not put the
assembly back into service.
Do not dry ballistic inserts near heat of flame.
2. Examine insert, if it is damp or wet, thoroughly air dry the ballistic insert before it is stitched to new
inner and outer shell.
(2) Inspect the shoulder and outer action back supports for open seams prior to stitching the ballistic
inserts to the new inner and outer shell.
Do not use any defective inserts to repair an item.
(3) Inspect overedge stitching of fillers. If overedge stitching of the ballistic material has become loose or
ravened or if any holding stitching has become ruptured resulting in separation of the plies of material,
repair the insert before utilizing the insert in a repaired item.
If the stock number and size designation on the identification label on the back inner shell or the instruction label
is in such condition that it is apparent that it will not retain legibility when subjected to wear after re-issue, a new
label should be incorporated by removing the old label and stitching a new label.
15-7. USE AND CARE BOOKLET
Look behind the instruction label, which is attached to the back inner shell. If the booklet is missing, torn, illegible,
or back page omitted, replace with a new booklet before re-issue of the vest.
15-8. WORKMANSHIP
Repair and cleaning will be done by personnel skilled in the particular trade applicable to their duties. Patches
will be tightly sewn or applied and all reseaming will be secure and free of loose or broken threads. Hardware will
work properly and be securely and properly attached. The finished item will be complete, clean, well repaired,
free from all defects affecting its serviceability and appearance.
15-13
