Walking into a brewery usually feels the same. You get the industrial lights, the reclaimed wood, and a chalkboard full of IPAs that all sort of taste like pine needles and regret. But Old Armor Beer Company hits different. It's in Kannapolis, North Carolina, right in the heart of a revitalized downtown, and the vibe isn't just "craft beer." It's mission-driven.
Founded by Stefan Strickland and Kyle Lingafelt, this isn't some corporate venture backed by venture capital looking for a quick exit. These guys are veterans. Stefan served in the Marine Corps; Kyle was in the Army. When they decided to open a brewery, they didn't just want to make booze. They wanted to build a community hub that actually gives back to the people who serve.
The Reality of Old Armor Beer Company and the Kannapolis Revival
Kannapolis used to be a mill town. When the mills closed, the lights basically went out. For years, the downtown area was a ghost of its former self. Then came the Cannon Ballers—the local minor league team—and a massive investment in the West Avenue District. Old Armor Beer Company was a cornerstone of that "new" Kannapolis.
They took over a historic building, and honestly, the renovation is stunning. It’s got that high-ceiling, open-air feel, but it’s packed with military and first responder memorabilia. It’s not kitschy, though. It feels respectful. You’ll see patches from police departments, fire stations, and every branch of the military pinned up or displayed.
One thing people get wrong about "theme" breweries is they think the beer is an afterthought. Not here. They take the science of brewing seriously. While a lot of places lean into the "veteran-owned" label to sell mediocre pale ales, Old Armor actually wins awards. They focus on clean, approachable styles that don't require a degree in hop-botany to enjoy.
What’s Actually on Tap?
The beer names are exactly what you’d expect, and honestly, it’s refreshing. You’ve got the Oh Dark Thirty (an Oatmeal Stout that’s surprisingly smooth) and the Pavement Pounder (an IPA that doesn't try too hard to melt your face off).
But here is the cool part: the Charity Tap.
Most businesses talk about "giving back" in their mission statements. Old Armor actually does it. They designate specific beers where a portion of every pint sold goes directly to 501(c)(3) charities. We’re talking about organizations like the 22 Every Day Foundation, which tackles veteran suicide, or local first responder funds. Since they opened in 2019, they've funneled a staggering amount of money back into these causes.
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Why the Veteran Connection Matters for the Business Model
It isn't just marketing. The military background of the founders influences how the brewery operates. There is a precision to the taproom. The staff is trained differently. The logistics are tighter.
They also offer a Pay It Forward board. You can buy a pint for a future guest—specifically a veteran or a first responder. When that person walks in, they check the board, see a beer has been bought for them, and they drink for free. It’s a simple gesture, but in a world that feels increasingly disconnected, it’s a powerful way to facilitate a "thank you" without it being awkward.
The Expansion and the Future
Success in the craft beer world is fickle. A lot of places opened in the mid-2010s and have already shuttered because they couldn't scale. Old Armor Beer Company went the other way. They expanded.
They launched a second location in Rock Hill, South Carolina. Why? Because the model works. People want to spend their money at places where the profit doesn't just disappear into a black hole. They want to know their Saturday afternoon buzz is helping a firefighter's family or providing resources for a soldier transitioning to civilian life.
Navigating the Competition
North Carolina is arguably the craft beer capital of the South. You have Asheville to the west, which is basically the mecca of hops, and Charlotte just a few miles south of Kannapolis. Staying relevant in this landscape is brutal.
Old Armor survives because they aren't trying to be "cool" in the traditional sense. They aren't chasing the latest "glitter sour" or "pastry stout" trends that die out in three months. They make consistent, high-quality traditional styles.
- Lagers: Crisp, clean, and actually taste like beer.
- Wines and Ciders: They recognize not everyone likes grain-water.
- Community Events: From 5Ks to benefit concerts, the taproom is rarely empty.
The brewery also leans heavily into the "Social District" rules in Kannapolis. You can grab a beer in a plastic cup and walk around the downtown area, watch the fountains, or head toward the stadium. It has turned the brewery from a destination into a part of the local lifestyle.
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Technical Excellence in Brewing
Let's talk about the brewing setup. It’s a 15-barrel system. For those who aren't beer nerds, that's a sweet spot. It's big enough to keep up with demand but small enough that they can still experiment with small batches.
They use high-quality malts and specific yeast strains that ensure their flagship beers taste exactly the same every time you visit. That consistency is what separates a "hobby" brewery from a professional powerhouse.
Surprising Details You Might Not Know
Most people assume breweries are just for adults. Old Armor is surprisingly family-friendly (and dog-friendly). They have a massive outdoor space. On any given Saturday, you'll see kids with juice boxes and retirees sharing a flight.
Another detail: the founders are incredibly hands-on. It’s not rare to see Stefan or Kyle actually behind the bar or hauling grain bags. That level of "leading from the front" is a carryover from their service, and it trickles down to the staff culture.
The brewery also maintains a "wall of honor" where patrons can bring in photos of their loved ones who served. It makes the space feel more like a living memorial than a commercial establishment.
Addressing the Misconceptions
There’s a common misconception that veteran-owned businesses are only for veterans. That couldn't be further from the truth here. While the core values are rooted in service, the atmosphere is inclusive. You don't need a DD214 to get a seat at the bar.
Honestly, the "Old Armor" name itself refers to the protective gear worn by those in harm's way, but it also symbolizes the resilience of the community. It’s about the "armor" we all put on to get through the day.
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How to Support and Experience Old Armor
If you’re planning a visit, don’t just show up and grab whatever is on the top of the list.
- Check the Charity Tap first. It’s the easiest way to make your happy hour feel productive.
- Look at the Pay It Forward board. If you see a name or a branch you recognize, consider adding a beer to the tally.
- Explore the West Avenue District. Kannapolis has spent millions making this area walkable. Take your beer for a stroll.
- Visit the Rock Hill location. If you're in South Carolina, the second spot offers a similar vibe with a slightly different local flair.
The craft beer industry is changing. The days of "build it and they will come" are over. Breweries now have to stand for something. Old Armor Beer Company stands for the people who keep the lights on and the streets safe. That’s a business model that doesn’t go out of style.
Final Takeaways for the Craft Beer Enthusiast
When you look at the success of Old Armor, it’s a blueprint for how to integrate a business into a town’s identity. They didn't just open a shop; they became part of the civic fabric.
Whether you're a local or just passing through the Charlotte metro area, stopping by is worth it. Not just for the liquid in the glass, but for the reminder that business can be a force for good. They’ve proven that you can be profitable while being philanthropic, and that’s a win for everyone involved.
To get the most out of your visit, keep an eye on their social media for "Release Days." They often drop limited runs of barrel-aged beers or seasonal fruit ales that sell out within 48 hours. If you're a collector of glassware or patches, bring some extra cash—their merch game is significantly better than your average local pub. Support veteran-owned, drink local, and maybe buy a pint for the person who served before you. It's just the right thing to do.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
- Verify the Current Tap List: Check their official website or the Untappd app before you go, as the Charity Tap rotates monthly.
- Coordinate with Game Day: If the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers are playing, parking will be tighter, so plan to arrive at least 90 minutes before first pitch.
- Join the Base Camp Club: If you're a local, look into their membership program for discounts and early access to special releases.
- Contribute to the Wall: If you have a photo of a family member in uniform, ask the staff about the requirements for adding them to the brewery's tribute displays.