Gear Life Span

[BenTheEMOP]

I realize there are a lot of variables that go into this question, but does anyone have a rule of thumb about how long gear should last?

For instance, I have a 2005 FIE Uhlman underarm protector and a 2005 FIE Leon Paul Mask. The mask has a small dent that I can probably fix with a ball peen hammer, but I don't think it needs to be replaced any time soon.

Still, seeing the dates makes me wonder -- how long can fencing gear be expected to last?

[Craig]

I realize there are a lot of variables that go into this question, but does anyone have a rule of thumb about how long gear should last?

My 1994 Uhlmann FIE mask still passes the punch test and I'd feel safe in it. Won't wear it right now since the bib is really nasty and ripped.


Craig

[Beloit Fencer of Old]

My 1994 Uhlmann FIE mask still passes the punch test and I'd feel safe in it. Won't wear it right now since the bib is really nasty and ripped.


Craig

I'll second that...my 1995 Uhlmann FIE mask still passes and with it, I never give my head safety a second thought. The bib, like Craig's, is nasty, but since I went from well-off to "poor" over the last year, I wear it all the time.

[IvorDarcy]

My 1984 Allstar mask still passes the punch test. No, that's not a typo. Really is 1984. It is in remarkable condition because I baby all my gear.

[Zilverzmurfen]

My first mask was an 800N Allstar from 1992. I wore it for ~8 years until I had to replace it for a 1600N due to increased safety requirements. Naturally, I don't wear it anymore but after all those ~8 years it was still in very good condition. No dents or rips in bib.

I got my first ever plastron in ~1995. Still in very good condition and regularly used. The 'closing' strap (elastic, this was before they were made from velcro) has been replaced once.

(I tend to be very careful with my equipment in general so of course that matters too.)

Short answer: YMMV depending on how careful you are with your stuff, and of course the quality of the product.

[BenTheEMOP]

Thanks everyone. I try to take good care of my gear. It's good to hear other's experiences and to know there doesn't seem to be an expiration date on things like the underarm protector.