TM 10-8400-203-23
25-
Change 9
12
(10) Outer Shell Replacement. The outer shell of the base vest or any of the modular components may be replaced
if they are extensively worn and appear not to be economically repairable. The entire outer shell can be
obtained from the manufacturer already fabricated. See Section IV for NSNs. Replace the entire outer shell
when the outer shell exhibits large holes or tears, is severely worn or soiled, or shows badly torn pockets or
pocket flaps, or badly frayed collar. If the outer shell is to be removed and replaced, it is important that the label
containing the size, national stock number, and cleaning instructions be retained and stitched to the new shell.
Check the ballistic panel size markings for legibility and remark if necessary. If the label is unusable, replace it
with a new one.
25-6. TESTING
Complete Vest.
Dry Weight Test. The dry weight test may be conducted to ensure that the OTV being returned to supply channels
contains the proper size ballistic panel and the OTV size designation is correct. The following table contains the weights of
the OTV and SAPI in pounds. The tolerance for each is 0.2 lbs.
COMPONENT
X-SMALL
SMALL
MEDIUM
LARGE
X-LARGE
Base Vest including:
Collar assembly,
throat protector and
groin protector
8.10
8.55
9.25
10.25
11.30
SAPI, ea.
2.8
3.5
4.0
4.6
5.3
25-7. REPAIR OF BODY ARMOR SMALL ARMS PROTECTIVE INSERT
a. Inspection. (Army) Inspect the overall condition of the SAPI. (Marine Corps) Inspect the overall condition of the SAPI
prior to each field evolution and once per day during field use. Check for rips or tears, surface cracks in the plate itself,
or if the plate flexes and crunching sounds can be heard, or loose pieces can be heard inside plate when it is shaken.
Each SAPI will be inspected to determine the proper classification in accordance with chapter 1, paragraph 1-7, and
identification (item description, size and stock number). (Marine Corps) If there are surface cracks in the plate itself, or
if the plate flexes and crunching sounds can be heard, or loose pieces can be heard inside plate when shaken, the
plate should be returned to the manufacturer.
b. (Marine Corps) The SAPI shall have a storage life of a minimum of 15 years when stacked no more than 7 plates high.
CAUTION
Do not use a stiff brush to clean any part of theSAPI as this will damage the material.
c. Cleaning Instructions.
(1) Remove loose dirt and lint from the outer surface of the SAPI using a cloth or soft bristle brush.
(2) Wet the SAPI in a sink or shower by running warm, not hot water over it. Do not submerge it in a container of
water.
(3) Apply a mild soap or detergent to the soiled areas and scrub with a cloth or soft bristle brush. Badly soiled areas
may be scrubbed with GI Soap. Scrub only long enough to remove soil.
(4) Heavy grease and oil stains may be pre-spotted with a dry cleaning solvent and detergent mixture and scrubbed
with a soft brush.
(5) Rinse the SAPI with warm water until all suds are completely gone. Avoid immersing the SAPI in water.
(6) Let the SAPI dry by itself, away from heat or open flame.
CAUTION
Do not machine wash or dry. Failure to follow these instructions may render your SAPI useless
against ballistic threats. Do not submerge your SAPI in a container of any liquid.