Hmmm.....They shouldn't stick together when you're out of the vest, because they won't come into contact with each other anyway. The armor will keep them spread out. Regardless, they would all be facing out anyway, and their respective opposite poles must face each other for them to attract. If anything, they would push away from each other I would think.
I'm not trying to talk you out of the bolt method, believe me. It's what I used. I heartily endorse it. But, I think the magnet idea is a fine one as well.
I think I still have that tutorial up, don't I? I'll check and edit here with a link if I find it.
**edit** Here it is. Hope it helps. http://www.geocities.com/emperorofmenifee/ArmorPage3.html