2.3 Ballistic Nylon
Ballistic Nylon is a heavy-duty and durable fabric that was originally developed for military purposes. It is known for being exceptionally strong, as well as abrasion resistant. That makes it ideal for rugged applications. Since its original military purposes, Ballistic Nylon has transitioned into having a variety of civilian uses. Mostly because of its durability and versatility. Here's everything you need to know about Ballistic Nylon:
1. Fabric Composition: Ballistic Nylon is a synthetic fabric made from nylon fibers. It was originally developed by DuPont as a material for protective flak jackets during World War II. The term "ballistic" refers to its ability to withstand projectile impacts. For this intended use, ballistic nylon has since been replaced by Kevlar and other more bullet resistant materials.
2. Strength and Durability: One of the key features of Ballistic Nylon is its outstanding strength and durability. The fabric is tightly woven, providing excellent resistance to tears and punctures. Made from a very tight “ballistic” weave, the material is tear resistant in all directions. It has a high denier, which measures the thickness and weight of the individual fibers.
3. Abrasion Resistance: Ballistic Nylon is highly resistant to abrasion, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications. It can withstand rough handling, rubbing, and exposure to harsh elements without significant wear and tear. The large thread denier makes it resistant to abrasion, making it a great selection for outdoor and travel.
4. Water Resistance: While ballistic nylon is not inherently waterproof, its tight weave and synthetic composition offer some water resistance. However, it is not as water-resistant as other materials like waxed cotton or technical fabrics with specialized coatings. We’ll talk more about waxed canvas later.
5. Weight and Flexibility: Despite its strength, Ballistic Nylon remains relatively lightweight, making it practical for various uses. It is also flexible, allowing it to conform to different shapes and structures.
6. Military and Civilian Applications: Ballistic Nylon was initially used in military gear such as flak jackets and helmets. However, it has found its way into civilian applications. This includes luggage, backpacks, tactical gear, briefcases, wallets, and watch straps (to name a few). Its durability and resistance to scuffs and scratches make it an attractive choice for protecting valuable items during travel or everyday use. Unfortunately, due to the difficulty of dying, Ballistic Nylon has fewer color options. And of those options, colors tend to be on the darker side. So, most products using Ballstic Nylon on the market today tend to be black. A similar product that offers better choice of color would be Cordura. We will cover that material at a later date.
7. Ballistic Nylon Grades: There are different grades of Ballistic Nylon, with some variations designed for specific uses. For instance, lower-grade Ballistic Nylon may be used for less demanding applications, while higher-grade versions are employed for heavy-duty military or industrial purposes.
8. Maintenance: Ballistic Nylon is relatively easy to maintain. It can be cleaned with mild soap and water, and most stains can be easily wiped off. However, it is essential to check the manufacturer's care instructions for specific products.
9. Environmental Considerations: As with most synthetic materials, the production of Ballistic Nylon involves the use of petroleum-based resources. However, some manufacturers are making efforts to incorporate in recycled materials and/or develop more sustainable alternatives.
To sum it up, Ballistic Nylon is a tough and durable synthetic fabric known for its strength, abrasion resistance, and versatility. Originally developed for military purposes, it has become a popular choice for various civilian applications where durability and protection are essential. From luggage and backpacks to tactical gear and everyday accessories, Ballistic Nylon continues to prove its reliability in demanding situations. Sure, it’s not going stop a bullet, but you better believe it’s going to withstand any abuse you can throw its way.
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