Elite Survival Systems Lightweight Molle Plate Carrier Review

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In this commodity, we'll review plate carrier vests from the bottom of the upkeep barrel all the fashion up to Mil-Spec vests set for combat.

From weight to breathability to downright tacticool factor, we'll encompass it all! I accept used a number of them, and then I tin tell you which ones are practiced and what features you should look for in a belong.

I'll also show you where to buy real plates (and the best type) to put inside the vest to arrive as "impenetrable" as possible. For those of yous looking for a plate carrier for fettle grooming, I recommend checking out my favorite weighted vests here.

• Here Are the All-time Plate Carriers
  • 1. TacTec Plate Carrier by 5.11 (Best Value)
  • 2. Crye Precision Adaptive Vest System (AVS)
  • 3. LBT Modular Plate Carrier LBT-6094A
  • 4. Crye Precision AirLite SPC
  • 5. Crye Precision JPC 2.0
  • 6. Crye Precision JPC Plate Carrier
  • 7. Shellback Tactical Banshee Elite ii.0
  • 8. AR500 Armor Veritas (Great Upkeep Option)
  • 9. Condor MOPC Plate Carrier (Some other Nifty Budget Option)
  • 10. HRT RAC Plate Carrier
  • eleven. Tactical Molle Coozy (Best Design)
  • 12. SDS BAE Ranger Releasable Vest System
  • 13. Gloryfire Modular Assault Belong
  • 14. vAv Yakeda VT-1099
  • 15. ArcEnCiel Tactical MOLLE Vest
  • 16. vAv Yakeda Outdoor Vest
  • 17. Elite Spanker Tactical Paintball and Airsoft Vest
• FAQs

Soft Body Armor vs Plates

I'll go more in detail and cover the pros and cons of each type of body armor below. To requite y'all a cursory summary, soft body armor is effective at stopping smaller caliber rounds like 9mm, but information technology doesn't offer the aforementioned level of protection as plates. If concealment isn't a factor for you, I recommend a belong that allows you to insert hard plates.

Here is a skilful video I found on YouTube about plate carrier setup and has some information you may detect valuable. I recommend skipping straight to i:fifty in the video.

1. Level of Protection

Level of protection is an important consideration. Dissimilar vests and plates take different rating levels that allow you know what type of rounds they can effectively stop (more on this below). Before we cover that, here are the types of vests out there to choose from.

Plate carriers are designed to conduct inserts made to end existent ballistic rounds. The plates inside the vest cover and protect the vital organs of the upper body. Some vests allow you to insert side and back plates, which might be a little overkill for noncombatant use, but hey if y'all don't mind carrying a little actress weight get for it. They typically have MOLLE attachments and pockets to carry other military-fashion gear.

Soft bulletproof vests are nice because they are concealable and much lighter than plate carriers. That said, soft vests practice accept some major downsides. While they can finer stop smaller rounds like 9mm or shotgun pellets, they're ineffective against higher caliber firearms.

Multi-functional vests are tactical and are great for attaching accessories like magazine pouches and other gear. They are typically lightweight, but typically don't have whatsoever areas to insert hard or soft plates. Equally far as protection goes, they aren't much better than just wearing a regular belong or shirt.

2. Ratings and Certifications

The National Establish of Justice (NIJ), which is part of the Department of Justice has been setting body armor standards for a long time. Here is a link to the National Found of Justice website with armor standards. These let y'all to know what type of rounds the armor you're looking at tin realistically end. Here are the levels.

Handgun Calibers

• Level IIA: Effective against 9mm to .40 ammunition fired from brusk barrel handguns. Not effective against rifles
• Level II: Effective against 9mm and .357 magnum ammunition from brusk barrel handguns. Non effective against rifles.
• Level IIIA: Effective against .357 and .44 magnum ammunition from long barrel handguns. Not effective against rifles

Rifle Calibers

• Level III: Constructive against 7.62 FMJ core ammunition.
• Level IV: Constructive against .30cal steel for armor piercing rounds.

3. The Different Types of Plates

SAPI Plates (Small Arms Protective Inserts) are used by all branches of the U.s. military and are what we used in the Marines. Kevlar vests are great, but every bit mentioned to a higher place for rounds larger than 9mm they're largely ineffective. SAPI plates were specifically designed to stop higher caliber rounds than standard Kevlar vests. SAPI plates are basically ceramic plates (described beneath) covered in a tough blended cloth (to trap fragments).

At that place are really different types, but they're typically fabricated of boron carbide or silicon carbide ceramic. The level of protection is dandy, but they're quite a chip heavier than soft plates. In the Marines, we had to wear these plates in the front, back, and sizes of our vest. The major downside of SAPI and ceramic plates is they are only designed to stop one impact in the same spot. This is because they shatter when hit to blot the kinetic energy from the round.

Estimated Plate Weights:

• Actress small plate: About ii.8 pounds
• Minor plate: Near iii.5 pounds
• Medium plate: iv.0 pounds
• Large plate: four.vi pounds
• Extra Big Plate: v.three pounds

Ceramic Plates are a mutual type of plate you tin detect for auction. They were starting time used on a large calibration during Operation Desert Storm. They were a breakthrough in trunk armor technology and were much lighter than other types of armor at the time. That said, they're still pretty heavy and beefy.

With ceramic plates, y'all take to weigh the benefits of increased protection with the cons that come up with a heavy vest. You run across this a lot in the military; guys volition remove their side or back plates to drop weight and increase their mobility. Also go along in mind that because they are designed to shatter when struck by a bullet, they are simply effective at stopping one round in the same area. With ceramic plates, y'all also need to be careful to not drop them and remember to service them if they take a hard impact.

Polyethylene Plates are another type of plate you tin can buy. They're significantly lighter than ceramic plates. These plates often involve woven shield materials that actually take advantage of the natural spin of a bullet to absorb the bear on. The heat of the bullet actually melts the polyethylene and helps end the round.

Steel Plates are an quondam type of plate that I don't recommend because of the weight. Steel has been used for centuries, and if it's thick enough information technology can account stop ballistic rounds. It was originally made to finish rounds from musket rifles but is nevertheless constructive against modernistic firearms.

4. Weight and Heat Considerations

Weight is some other important cistron, especially if you're planning on wearing the belong for long periods of fourth dimension. If yous're looking for a vest to conditioning in y'all might really want one that is heavy.

If you're looking for a vest for dwelling house defense or sports similar paintball/airsoft you lot probably want to look for one that is lightweight. I'll list the weight for each vest below, so you tin can compare.

If you're wearing a heavy vest and moving around a lot, you lot're going to sweat a lot. In the Marines, later on hikes, our cammies would be totally soaked nether our plate carriers. If you plan on wearing the plate carrier for a long time, I recommend attaching a hydration bladder to the back, and then you can stay hydrated and prevent overheating.

5. Functionally and Attachments

You desire to brand sure you lot become a plate carrier that has MOLLE attachments and places where you lot tin can attach ammo pouches or other gear y'all want to have on you lot. Sure vests accept lots of places for attachments and accessories, while others are more minimalist.

MOLLE (pronounced like Molly) is an acronym that stands for  "Modular Lightweight Loadbearing Equipment". At the very basic level, it'south essentially a ladder of tightly woven and durable denier nylon that is far superior to other velcro systems. Having a MOLLE system integrated into your plate carrier allows y'all to quickly and easily attach pouches, accessories, patches, holsters, and many other pieces of gear. Using MOLLE is typically better than stuffing things into your backpack or your pockets because you lot can customize where the items become and you'll ever have quick access to what you need the near when it counts. Most high-quality plate carriers volition be riddled with MOLLE and basically, all military issued vests cover MOLLE in one way or some other.

Here Are the All-time Plate Carriers

1. TacTec Plate Carrier past 5.eleven (Best Value)

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Estimated Price: $200

My Review:  five.11 took their fourth dimension and interviewed the highest level operators in the world and asked for their feedback while designing the TacTec Plate carrier. That endeavour did not become unnoticed and the attention to detail and unique features of this plate carrier set information technology apart in many different ways.

While information technology was purpose-built for military machine and law enforcement, information technology's and so comfortable and offers such good mobility that it was adopted by the CrossFit industry, and is at present the official plate carrier of the Crossfit Games. This is no surprise as the TacTec has these massive airflow channels that keep you lot cool and help to minimize sweat building up under the belong. These air channels are highly appreciated by Crossfitters and Military personnel all over the world!

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Then what'southward so great nearly it? Well, for starters, it's the near comfortable and cool plate carrier I've always worn. 5.11 incorporated padded yoke-style shoulder straps, the same manner that makes five.11 backpacks so comfortable. This technology distributes the weight of the plate carrier very well and eliminates common plate carrier force per unit area points. 5.11 besides allowed the shoulder straps to accept a piddling play, which allows them to move with the body, just non so much that they experience loose. The mesh/skeletonized cummerbund organisation is elastic and has some flex to it. This allows the plate carrier to stay tight confronting the body simply yet gives a picayune flake of flex, making it a lot more comfortable when bending, jumping, picking upwardly heavy objects, leaning, or switching from prone to standing or vice versa. The mesh system makes it very breathable and still allows for molle attachments and even side SAPIs. The plate carrier is tapered at the top to give operators more freedom to move, while yet assuasive information technology to hold medium and large plates. This tapering mode is also a much better shape to swim, climb, and hold things over your head.

Y'all get a light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation cut molle/velcro panel on the upper half of both sides of the plate carrier and there is plenty of space to put your ID and morale patches, along with a front compartment to hold maps and other gear. The unabridged vest tin can be taken off in seconds with the specially designed 1-handed quick-release arrangement.

The elevate system is 1 feature on this belong that is very unique. The drag handle is tethered through a strap that goes all the way through the plate carrier and is incredibly well designed. Having a drag handle that can be pulled out and extended from the plate carrier allows operators dragging a casualty to stay in a more powerful upright position. This makes it much faster to move casualties, requires less endeavor, and allows the person dragging to the casualty to face up the direction of travel, increasing situational awareness. Funker Tactical did an awesome torture exam of the drag organisation here if yous're interested in checking it out.

Tactiholics actually did an awesome review on this plate carrier that is very in-depth if you want to check out the video beneath.

Here is a absurd video by 5.11 that explains why this belong is and then popular in the Crossfit community. Rogue Fitness really makes non-ballistic plates that are cheaper than buying front and back ballistic plates if you're planning on using this plate carrier for fitness training. You tin observe the contoured plates here and the non-contoured plates here.

The five.11 TacTec is an crawly plate carrier that offers improve mobility and flexibility than any plate I've worn. Purchase once cry once, I know 5.11 products seem a bit pricey but they are built by the people that know what we need and they use only the best materials considering they know it matters. Information technology is a minimalist plate carrier, so if you're someone who needs or wants to deport a ton of mags and gear this might not be the best selection, but for most people, this is a swell option. I purchased both the fettle-specific plates (yous can notice them cheap used on eBay) and AR500 ballistic plates here.

Key Features:

• Vest weight: two.5lbs
• Compatible plate size: Medium (12.5″ 10 ix.five″ x 2″) and Large (xiii.25 x 10.25 x 2.25 SAPI plates.
• Modularity options: No modularity options
• Color schemes: Standard Black, Navy Blue, Tac OD, Sandstone, Terrain, and MultiCam
• Fabric Construction: 500D Cordura

2. Crye Precision Adaptive Vest Organisation (AVS)

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Estimated Price: $600 for Base AVS Configuration Plus Additional Add-ons

My Review: The AVS stands for "Adaptive Vest System" and boy oh male child is it ever so adaptive. Crye Precision was fed up with single situational vest systems that are really just built for sure situations and thus they set out to create a modular platform where the user can easily and quickly swap out modular parts and sections of the belong to quickly adapt and reconfigure their loadout on the fly. These vests are some of the easiest and quickest platforms to change your weapons systems and go from covert to heavily covered in merely a few minutes.

What makes the AVS so popular and so highly rated? Well, they're constructed of military-grade materials and consist of some of the highest quality adroitness while allowing for the user to completely configure its armor plates, magazine pouches, cummerbunds, straps, and a plethora of other add together-ons and assets. The AVS is perfect for those of u.s. who aren't privy to mission data alee of fourth dimension and may receive an ever-evolving threat or new orders to execute with very little fourth dimension to prepare or reconfigure. The AVS is ready for the operator that needs to be ready for anything and everything no matter what.

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Crye Precision sells an AVS customization kit which is basically a massive prepare of buckles, straps, MOLLE straps, pads, belts, etc that you can use to ensure the AVS fits absolutely flawlessly over any other gear you might take on and farther extend the AVS's capability to carry gear and accommodate armor plates. You could also grab just the standard plate pouch set and catch the AVS 2-Band Skeletal Cummerbund for just a plate carrier configuration with no storage. This would toll you roughly $400 and provide ample protection in a very lightweight configuration.

Key Features:

• Vest Weight: The weight primarily depends on how you lot spec out your vest and since at that place are so many options, we won't list a set up weight here. The base AVS harness though weighs near one-half a pound.
• Compatible Plate Size: This depends on which plate carrier system you lot choose but for the most part, the AVS could exist compatible with just virtually plate that follows somewhat standard sizing options.
• Modularity Options: Pond friendly armor plate set, a modular body armor set-upward (MBAV), the Crye Precision standard AVS plate pouch system, detachable quotient-specific pouches and mag dumps, loadbearing and low contour chugalug, detachable MOLLE systems and MOLLE extensions, several different cummerbund systems, peripheral storage options, quick disassemble radio pouches, padded yokes, padded shoulder covers, extendable STKSS load supports, and the AVS g backpack which is purpose-built to fit and operate with the AVS vest system.
• Color Schemes: Coyote Dark-brown, Flat Black, Ranger Green, and MultiCam.
• Material Construction: 500D Cordura

three. LBT Modular Plate Carrier LBT-6094A

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Estimated Cost: Roughly $450 + Add-ons

My Review: Get-go and foremost, LBT carries several versions of this plate carrier that host subtle differences more often than not surrounding sizing.  The "A" variant is compatible with plates up to Swimmer SAPI plates, the "B" variant is uniform with big SAPI plates while the "C" variant is compatible with XL SAPI plates. Nosotros just really like the 6094A, and so that'due south what nosotros've chosen, however, another model may suit your specific use instance meliorate.

Like many modular plate carrier systems, these consist of the same great 500D Cordura construction that has proven fourth dimension and time again to exist reliable, durable, and rather lightweight. Every chance LBT had to reinforce a seam or strap was taken with loftier-quality Bar-Tacks and Type Due east Mil-Spec threaded stitching. These vests, no matter which model you cull, are extremely loftier quality and are some of the near durable lightweight vests on the market. Of grade, the price reflects this, as I'm sure they don't have many repeat customers and not considering they aren't practiced but considering they are so good near people only need to buy 1.

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Bated from the astounding quality y'all receive hither, you tin wait some pretty standard modularity attributes such as a plethora of web attachment points littered over the entire belong, adjustable padded shoulder straps with removable padded wraps, adjustable and removable side panels, wire/hose guides, adjustable spine plate pouch, anchored drag handle, and interior hooks for shoulder and collar armor.

I'll postal service a video beneath where a Navy SEAL goes over his setup with this belong. I call up you'll find it useful.

Key Features:

• Vest Weight: 3.13lbs
• Uniform Plate Size: Medium size 10"x12"
• Modularity Options: Hooks for shoulder and neck armor attachments, webbing attachments for extra magazine storage, radio storage, etc, removable side panels, and removable shoulder pads.
• Color Schemes: MultiCam, Mas Gray, Ranger Green, Black, Coyote Tan, Coyote Chocolate-brown, and Olive Drab
• Material Construction: 500D Cordura

4. Crye Precision AirLite SPC

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Estimated Price: $170 gets you the AirLite SPC vest and and so you'll need to price out the accessories and additions you need separately. The AirLite Structural Cummberbund will toll roughly $eighty and tin can be found hither.

My Review: The AirLite SPC (Structural Plate Carrier) is virtually the all-time of both worlds betwixt the technology constitute in the JPC 2.0 and the structural integrity of the AVS. Of course, the AirLite SPC is ultra modular and, just like the proper name suggests, is purpose-built to exist as light as possible. AirLite itself is really the name of the textile that Crye Precision is using, which is essentially a super calorie-free tightly woven nylon that sheds water and is equally or more than tear-resistant than heavier nylons.

Aside from the noticeably lighter and meliorate water-shedding materials the biggest difference and I'd say pro over the other Crye Precision products is the add-on of better structural integrity for the cummerbund system. The back of the organization has upgraded loops that assist support the weight of heavy plates. If you lot've always run heavy plates, like ceramics, you'll find that most plate carriers on the market end upwards sagging which puts the plates a bit lower than what's ideal.

The blueprint of the SPC provides for improve support thus positioning heavy plates right in the perfect spot to provide the best and most efficient protection from your back protective plates. This particular system also has some of the best quick pull away tabs I've ever come up across on a plate carrier.

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The AirLite doesn't come with a born admin pouch on the front end of the breast like the JPC 2.0 has, which for me, isn't a deal billow but I did want you to be aware of that.

Of class, the AirLite SPC is quite modular simply some of that modularity comes in a proprietary season, meaning you lot should ensure the addition you're planning on calculation fits if it's from another brand. The loops on the rear side of the shoulder straps are there to support the AVS 1000 light pack. All of the Crye Precision front flap and groin protection additions are compatible with the SPC AirLite as well as the SM/Doc zipper console accessories.

As with many of the premium vests offered by Crye Precision, the AirLite SPC is compatible with the Extendable Structural Kinetic Support Organization (STKSS) which is ane of the best adjustment systems of any plate carrier on the market place today. Check out the Crye Precision STKSS system at this link here. I highly suggest this addition equally it greatly reduces the cumbersome weight on your shoulders and more evenly applies the weight of the vest and your gear over the entirety of the vest.

One of the concluding key takeaways I noticed and really enjoyed about the AirLite SPC was the double-thick 3D mesh they used on the plate carrier sections. The mesh allows a much better breathability than well-nigh any other plate carrier systems which is especially helpful for allowing sweat to dry out and air to movement betwixt you lot and your plates. Now, normally, mesh used like this becomes extremely uncomfortable every bit the mesh isn't exactly soft, notwithstanding, on the SPC at that place are what I can but describe as packets of padding around these mesh areas that allow the mesh to sit down slightly off of your body, ensuring the mesh doesn't become uncomfortable over time.

The Crye Precision AirLite is bachelor hither in a Swimmers Cut.

Key Features:

• Belong Weight: Just a little over a pound including the vest, cummerbund, and front flap
• Compatible Plate Size: Adjustable plate numberless that fit all standard SAPI plates
• Modularity Options: Highly modular and accepts most of the AVS add together-ons as well equally whatsoever Crye Precision front end flap, groin protection, small packs, zip-up front panels, side ballistic coverage, and more.
• Color Schemes: Multicam, Coyote Tan, Ranger Light-green, and Blackness
• Material Construction: Crye Precision Proprietary AirLite (T420 Loftier Tenacity Fibrous Nylon). Information technology's basically water-shedding tightly woven nylon that is roughly forty% lighter than traditional nylon fabrics used in other plate carriers.

5. Crye Precision JPC 2.0

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Estimated Cost: Effectually $245

My Review: The JPC two.0 is purpose-congenital to be lightweight and mobile. Using the absolute lightest materials possible, this is i of the easiest plate carriers to maintain nearly full move and agility in. The proprietary skeletal cummerbund system maintains an extremely breathable configuration while however ensuring maximum protection. Even better, the plate carrier section is made of durable stretchable fabric, assuasive for every size and blazon of plate to sit down snuggly.

You can discover this plate carrier in four dissimilar color configurations and a plethora of aftermarket attachments such every bit the AVS flaps. The vest has a lay-flat drag handle and plenty of webbing loops for back panel supports. Overall, this is one of the lightest and well-nigh compact plate carrier systems on the market today and information technology comes with a 2-step emergency doffing capability that is likely the fastest in the current marketplace.

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It happens rarely, but I see no major cons hither other than the fact that if you need more options and modularity, the AVS by Crye Precision may be the more suitable selection.

Key Features:

• Vest Weight: 1lb
• Compatible Plate Size: This item vest is sized to accommodate SAPI standard plates and thus fits awkwardly with civilian sized plates similar the 10″x12″. Plate size also depends on belong size which ranges from small, medium, large, and extra-large.
• Modularity Options: Compatible with a lot of the Crye Precision AVS add-ons such as the AVS front flap. The Skeletal Cummerbund allows for pouches to be quickly and easily mounted on both the within and outside of the cummerbund.
• Colour Schemes: MultiCam, Ranger Green, Coyote Tan, Black
• Material Construction: 500D Cordura

6. Crye Precision JPC Plate Carrier

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Estimated Price: $210

My Review: Crye Precision has hade this list multiple times already and for good reasons, they make some of the best plate carriers out at that place and are a popular choice among special forces operators.

The JPC 1.0 has a minimalist design and offers a diverseness of configuration options. It has a patented skeletal cummerbund that allows pouches to be mounted on both the inside and outside of the cummerbund. This makes the belong less beefy when carrier gear. It's a lightweight vest (the smallest size weighs about 1.2 pounds and the largest 40 vest weighs about 1.5 pounds. If y'all want to know what size to buy check out the sizing chart on the Cry Precision website hither.

Hither is a video of a Marine comparing his KHD plate carrier issued by the Marine Corps and the Crye Precision 1.0 vest.

Primal Features:

• Vest Weight: 1lb-1.2lbs depending on the size you cull
• Compatible Plate Size: This detail vest is sized to arrange SAPI standard plates and thus fits awkwardly with civilian sized plates like the x″x12″. Plate size also depends on vest size which ranges from small, medium, large, and actress-large.
• Modularity Options: Uniform with a lot of the Crye Precision AVS add-ons such as the AVS front flap. The Skeletal Cummerbund allows for pouches to be apace and easily mounted on both the inside and outside of the cummerbund.
• Colour Schemes: MultiCam, Ranger Green, and Coyote Tan.
• Cloth Construction: 500D Cordura

vii. Shellback Tactical Banshee Aristocracy two.0

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Cost: Around $290

My Review: Phew, this one will take a hefty accident to the bank digits so it must exist something damn tacticool, right?

Right! It's one of the all-time plate carriers out in that location every bit its purpose-congenital for combat by people who have seen combat. Information technology's constructed of the finest 500D Cordura nylon which is one of the lightest but most durable types of nylon bachelor. The unabridged thing is built to be tough equally nails but they've gone and tried to keep your body temps equally depression as possible past adding ventilation and 3D mesh to continue the air flowing. The shoulders and basically any point of contact with the body is padded for long duration usage and has plenty of built-in storage for but about every gadget you'd ever demand in the field.

This plate carrier is capable of utilizing both soft and difficult body armor all the style up to level 4 ESAPI ten×12 plates. The vest comes with a hook and loop lay flat elevate handle and all the necessary guiders for hydration houses, antennas, comms wires, etc. To kick, you'll get a lifetime warranty from Shellback!

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Key Features:

• Vest Weight: Roughly 3lbs
• Compatible Plate Size: Up to 10″x12″ level 3/4 ESAPI
• Modularity Options: Compatible with hydration tubes, shoulder wiring, attachment to the half dozen PALS webbing arrangement, removable Banshee Aristocracy Cummerbund, and two vertical nylon strips that can suit QASM buckles for chest rig attachments.
• Color Schemes: Black, Wolf Gray, Ranger Green, and MultiCam
• Material Construction: 500D Cordura

8. AR500 Armor Veritas (Not bad Budget Selection)

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Estimated Price: $fourscore for only the vest + add together-ons

My Review: The Veritas is a great modular plate carrier offered by an extremely well-respected make, AR500 Armor. Y'all may know of them from their large option of armor plates and every bit such, it's only fitting they offer yous a mode to carry those slabs of armor.

The AR500 Armor Veritas, coming in at simply ane pound and 14 ounces for the base layer, is 1 of the lighter modular systems on the marketplace that isn't priced heaven high and every bit it's made of 500D Cordura, you won't exist weighed down and will have plenty of weight capacity left to improver necessary attachments and extensions. Furthermore, the webbing including what lines the inner plate pouches is 3D printed and is Bar-Tack reinforced for durability and ensuring the plates exercise not shift around. The Veritas is equipped with a low-contour drag handle that is anchored into the entire rear platform for ultra-strength and reliability.

These guys don't practice the proprietary thing and they let compatibility with most chest rig mounts, rear load-bearing systems, and extensions on the market today. This ways that if you already have gear from some other company, information technology's probable it'll work in tandem with the Veritas modular vest platform.

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AR500 Fabricated an awesome video overview of this plate carrier that I call up you'll find useful if you lot're looking for a budget-friendly plate carrier.

Key Features:

• Belong Weight: 1.875lbs
• Uniform Plate Size: Up to 10"x12" plates except for the 10"x12" AR500 foursquare plates (too does not agree 11×14 plates)
• Modularity Options: Highly modular with a suite of additions including the Veritas Adaptive Plate inserts and cummerbund kit. Likewise includes dual loftier and low admin pouches that tin be extended with the AR500 Armor Cummerbund organisation and multi-caliber Kangaroo pouch and adjustable 2" anterior buckles for extension and perfect fitment
• Color Schemes: Flat Black, Coyote Brown, Veritas MultiCam, and Olive Drab
• Material Construction: 500D Cordura

9. Condor MOPC Plate Carrier (Another Great Upkeep Choice)

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Estimated Price: $70

My Review: The Condor Modular Operator Plate Carrier (MOPC) is a very popular plate carrier that for the money is most impossible to shell. Although it comes with no attachments, at around $60 this vest is an absolute steal.

This vest is suitable for civilian applications and nigh people won't ever demand to upgrade to a higher-end vest or being displeased with it downwards the road. Sure, there are higher-cease vests that I would opt for if I were actually heading into a war zone, but for most people, this vest will practise the trick.

I like the wide shoulder straps, it's a very comfortable and well-made made vest. It'southward a unproblematic rig made past one of the about reputable companies in the industry. Of all the carriers on this list, this one is the most like the KHD Defense plate carrier used by Marines.

It utilizes the PAL arrangement, and then you won't have to worry about buying a MOLLE attachment that won't fit on the vest.

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Skip to around 2:30 in the video beneath to come across where they start reviewing this belong.

Potential cons:

• No quick release feature
• Doesn't come with pouches or accessories

Key Features:

• Accepts: Medium or Large ESAPI plates upwardly to ten.25 x 13.25 inches
  (Side plates up to 6×eight″)
• Size: Adjustable (Medium to XL)Height choice for value
• Comfortable for long elapsing usage
• Breathable mesh interior

10. HRT RAC Plate Carrier

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Estimated Price: $200

My Review: These are an fantabulous selection for staying cool and comfortable and are probably some of the most comfortable vest options, particularly for hot climate performance. The shoulder pads are of some of the best in terms of condolement and the entire vest is designed effectually an airflow aqueduct. Like many vests, the HRT RAC comes with a ton of modification opportunities including a Duraflex buckle platform for extensions and additions of modular pouches and equipment storage.

Consisting of 500D Cordura, this is 1 of the lighter vests on the market today and was purpose-built to exist more than of a lightweight platform to employ in hot climates. Of form, this is still a solid choice if you lot don't demand the cooling effects.

Key Features:

• These will fit plates of upward to ten"x13".
• Constructed out of lightweight but heavy-duty 500D Cordura
• Designed specifically to suit acceptable airflow for the operator
• Duraflex Buckle modular platform
• Many boosted options such equally the HRT Quick Release Cummerbund system available
• Available in the following color configurations: Black, MultiCam, MultiCam/Blackness, Ranger Green, and Coyote Chocolate-brown

11. Tactical Molle Coozy (Best Design)

Cheque Toll on Amazon

My Review: Y'all know how to protect your vital goodies but have you considered the security of your brewskies? Drinking beer in a warzone is no like shooting fish in a barrel feat and having it spilled past a stray 7.62 is a pretty lame excuse for running out of beer.

Stack these bad boys up and protect those precious hops!

Note: Molle functionality makes it easy to add an admin pouch to store a bottle opener and bad ideas list.

Cardinal Features:

• You can't truly be an operator if you aren't willing to protect your brewski's

12. SDS BAE Ranger Releasable Vest System

Cheque Price on Amazon

My Review: First of all, sorry I don't accept an image for this 1. You can check to encounter a picture of the plate carrier hither if you're curious.

Most certainly non the cheapest selection available, the SDS Ranger is an extensive monster of a vest! It'll fit standard 10×12" plates in both front and dorsum with ease while maintaining a very tight squeeze, ensuring those plates won't be moving about when y'all are.

The quick releasability is especially helpful for quick deployment and shimmying out of the thing when need be. In that location's not much to say other than that this is one of the nigh durable and reliable styles of plate carrier vests on the market. The pattern this vest utilizes is pretty widely known to exist the leading edge of trunk armor vests.

Potential cons:

• A bit more than expensive than most other plate carriers on this listing that are like quality

Key Features:

• Ultra fast release ability
• Ane of the most coveted and admired design styles

Important Note: The rest of the vests on this list are suitable for training, paintball, airsoft, and other outdoor activities, simply I would not recommend them if yous're looking for a vest to trust with your life. Most of these vests are bachelor on Amazon, so for those of yous who are just looking for a plate carrier for recreational use, these will work!

xiii. Gloryfire Modular Assail Vest

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Note: This Plate Carrier was recently delisted on Amazon, if it comes back in stock I will post a link.
Accepts: Hard and Soft Plates
Size: Medium to X-Big (Adaptable)
Holds Plates: Up to 10.5" x 13.5" (Forepart and Back)
Holds 6"x6" Side SAPIs
Material: Durable 1000D Nylon
Colors: Black, Tan, or Olive Drab

Amazon Prime members, this one is for you lot! If you're looking for a plate carrier vest to put real plates into for personal defence, or a good belong for grooming, paintball, and/or airsoft this is a adept selection. It also reminds me of the KHD plate carriers we used in the Marines. The vest does not come with hard or soft armor plates, merely I'll show y'all some expert places to buy some at the bottom of the folio. Recall that although this belong is made from a very strong anti-tear polyester, it'southward not Kevlar, and so if you take a existent circular to the breast without armor plates thinking information technology's Kevlar you'll surely read product descriptions from now on (if you lot alive).

Overall, it is the all-time plate carrier for the money that you tin purchase on Amazon. Personally, I would choose the MOPC over this, only both are great options. It is very adaptable, so you can get a tight fit. Information technology also has wide padded shoulder straps that distribute the weight of the belong nicely.

Potential cons:

• No quick release buckles
• no webbing on should straps
• Plates not included

Key Features:

• Accommodates magazine pouches and has built in utility pouches
• Thick, durable, and breathable
• Adaptable velcro side straps
• Accepts side SAPIs (Soft and Hard)
• Backed past a two-twelvemonth quality warranty

14. vAv Yakeda VT-1099

Check Toll on Amazon

Note: This plate carrier was also recently delisted by Amazon. I volition repost a link if it becomes bachelor.

• Accepts: Hard and Soft Plates
• Size: S-XXL (Adjustable)
• Material: Durable 1000D Nylon
• Weight: ii.1lb
• Holds plates: Up to 10" past 12" (Front end and Back)
• Max waist sizes: 56 inches

If you're looking for a minimalist, depression contour, and lightweight plate carrier vest this one by YAKEDA is a good choice. The plate pockets are durable and backed with a 3d mesh for comfort and trunk heat dispersion.

A nice thing well-nigh this belong is that it's very adjustable as far every bit size. I know a lot of larger guys have a difficult time finding a belong that fits right. It as well comes with 3 magazine pouches that can be removed or replaced.

Potential cons:

• Cannot hold side plates
• Plates non included

Primal Features:

• Usable with both soft and hard armor plates
• 3 point adjustable meridian using velcro straps
• Adjustable shoulder straps
• Comes with removable magazine pouches

15. ArcEnCiel Tactical MOLLE Vest

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• Accepts: Soft and Hard Plates
• Size: Adjustable (up to l" waist"
• Hold plates: 8×10 or 10×12
• Vest Mode: Military machine Vest

If you desire a plate carrier vest that comes with a lot of attachments and accessories this vest is a skillful choice. Information technology has many MOLLE attachment points for things like maps, walkie-talkies, radios, flashlights or other items you want to carry.

Like the other plate carriers on this list, information technology is very adjustable. It's a not bad military machine belong for training, home defense, paintball, airsoft, and tactical training.

Potential cons:

• Plates not included

Key Features:

• Holds soft and hard armor plates
• Webbing loops on shoulder straps
• Velcro section for morale patches
• Includes 3 mag pouches, two communication pouches, flashlight pouch, medic pouch, and admin pouch

16. vAv Yakeda Outdoor Belong

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• Accepts: Soft and Hard Plates
• Size: Adaptable (S-XXL)
• Material: Durable 900D Nylon
• Weight: iii.9 pounds (1.78kg)

Note: Information technology looks like this model is out of stock correct right now.

vAv Yakeda is known for making high quality and affordable vests. This vest can agree plates, but they are as well known for making practiced utility vests. Like the others on this list, this vest is highly adjustable to fit a broad range of sizes. The waist is adjustable up to 50 inches.

Information technology is made with thick and durable 900D nylon that isn't going to tear or rip like a cheap plate carrier belong. Another thing I love about this setup is the price. This might just be the best plate carrier for the coin.

Potential cons:

• Plates non included

Cardinal Features:

• Holds soft and hard armor plates
• iii Magazine pouches, velcro surface area for patch, two communication pouches, and flashlight / map pouch
• Adept for Paintball and Airsoft

17. Aristocracy Spanker Tactical Paintball and Airsoft Belong

Note: This plate carrier was also recently delisted by Amazon.

• Accepts: Hard and Soft Plates
• Material: 1050D Nylon
• Size: Adjustable (Max Waist of 48" Minimum of 32")
• Way: Armed forces vest
• Weight: 1.875 pounds
• Bachelor Colors: Blackness / Multicolor / Ranger Green / Coyote Chocolate-brown

This is another good airsoft plate carrier. Information technology comes with soft inserts that are non ballistic but still work for paintball or airsoft. I haven't heard of anyone actually using this vest for personal defence vest with armor plates, it's more designed to be a CS game vest.

There is also a MOLLE system on the dorsum of the vest where you can attach a hydration bladder. When you lot're wearing a plate carrier for long periods of time I recommend buying a quality water bladder. This is a sharp looking vest!

Potential cons:

• Plates not included

Key Features:

• Holds soft and hard armor plates
• Adjustable Shoulder Straps
• Comprehensive MOLLE Organization and includes foam Inserts

Where to Buy Armor Plate Inserts?

It can be difficult to find armor plates, It actually only depends on what kind you desire, but hither are a couple of good places I would recommend buying them from.

As far as overall value, AR500 sells plates on their website here and they're usually a proficient bang for your buck.

eBay:

If y'all're looking for the all-time place to buy SAPI plates I recommend you start with eBay. You lot can search for plates on eBay here. This is a great place to buy them from and you lot tin can often get rock lesser prices.

Gun Broker:

You lot tin search the Gun Broker website. They often take a lot of swell plates you can choose from and they have an sale style section that has the potential of netting you some expert deals.

Local Gun Shows:

This one is self-explanatory, but an often disregarded option. Gun shows are a corking place to find armor and talk to an experienced salesman near the best armor plates for you. You tin can also negotiate on the price and sometimes go an absolute steal! Every bit always, existence able to attempt on gear before you lot buy is a huge plus. My personal advice would be to discover a gun show and attempt on a few dissimilar pieces to figure out what you like, and so shop around online for the all-time deals.

FAQs

What Type of Body Armor Does the Armed forces Utilize?

Marine Infantry and I believe the army both use KDH vests. The KDH company makes a quality plate carrier organization that has a cummerbund way main belong with removable side plates (upward to 7×eight"). The two-point cutaway organization has 360-caste MOLLE zipper points, a quick release system, a drag handle, integrated communication channels, scalable modular components, and other smashing features. I don't know if you lot tin can purchase this vest as a civilian, but yous can check out the KDH website here. They have a contact tab on their website with a contact class and phone number. I'm sure they would exist more than than happy to answer your questions.

Are Plate Carriers with Inserts Actually that Heavy?

The simple answer is they can be (I have a list of the plate weights at the top of the folio). They aren't that heavy, simply if yous're hiking, running, or wearing them for a long fourth dimension they tin get uncomfortable. I had an actress-big vest and I'll tell you dam these things become heavy afterward a while. These are commonly used by all military machine branches and are a good option for personal defence. You can find SAPI plates in different sizes in shapes. As y'all can see from the weights below a plate carrier belong with inserts can get a bit heavy.

What are Some Attachments You Recommend?

Admin Pouch: Admin pouches are nice to hold things like a pocket-size notepad, pens, batteries, and other things you lot'd like to be able to access quickly.

Dump Pouch: If yous're planning on using this vest for shooting and war machine-mode grooming a dump pouch is a great attachment. When you're reloading you'll be able to retain your magazines during a fast reload instead of letting them lay on the ground. Utilizing a dump pouch will let you to salvage a lot of time that would have to be spent going dorsum looking for your mags. You can also fill up a dump pouch with other gear you'd like to carry.

What Should I Exercise If I Become a Vest and It Doesn't Fit?

Most the vests on this list are they're very adaptable to accommodate a broad range of sizes, just if you buy the belong on amazon they will usually accept returns. I recommend reading the product pages to see the max and minimum waist sizes, so you don't accept this trouble. I'll do my best to list the size specifications next to each plate carrier.

What are the Downsides to Plate Carriers?

The major downside when it comes to plate carriers or more lightweight tactical vests is the sheer weight and bulkiness. They practise get a scrap uncomfortable after wearing them for a long time and do restrict the speed of your movements slightly. Overall you have to weigh the pros and cons to decide to find the best plate carrier for your needs. Some are more than minimalistic and volition be easier to move around in and are improve for just preparation.

What are Some Advantages of Soft Body Armor?

The major reward of soft body armor is that it'due south concealable. Virtually soft armor can fit discretely undergarments, then no one volition fifty-fifty be aware y'all're wearing a ballistic vest. Information technology doesn't offer the same level of protection as plate carriers, but it's still a heck of a lot improve than nothing. On top of that, it'due south more flexible and comfortable when wearing for long periods of time.

What Size Magazines Can the Vests Hold?

Nearly vests hands accommodate the well-nigh popular .223 and .556 NATO rounds. If you lot're looking to agree a much larger bullet caliber or extended mags y'all may want to purchase aftermarket magazine pouches that you lot tin can attach through the vests MOLLE system.

Do Plate Carriers Increase the Chance of Overheating?

Definitely, you lot'll want to make sure you're crushing water if you're moving around a lot. Await for a skilful hydration bladder to attach to the back of the vests. Nigh quality vests volition accept MOLLE functionality on the dorsum that will permit yous to attach a bladder. Or y'all can but apply the straps on the hydration bladder and put information technology on over your vest. That's how I usually had mine prepare up when I was in the Marines.

How Many Rounds Can Bullet Proof  Vests Stop?

This actually depends on the type of armor/plates yous're wearing. I recommend referring to the top of the folio and reading nigh the unlike types of plates and the protection ratings set by the NIJ. Do note that some plates are actually designed to shatter when shot to blot the impact of the round. If yous're using the plate carrier for civilian uses similar abode defense it's unlikely you lot'll be shot in the same identify twice, merely it's yet an important consideration when choosing a vest.

How to Wash a Plate Carrier?

Plate carriers cannot be put in washing machines. For each specific carrier it'due south best to read the manual they will explain exactly how to wash it.

Should I Purchase a Camouflage Vest?

Sometimes the camo plate carriers are actually more expensive. In many settings camouflage really won't even be an reward so my short answer would exist not, but if you're using the vest for something similar paintball or airsoft in a woodland setting information technology might exist a proficient idea.

Are Plate Carriers with Inserts Actually that Heavy?

The simple answer is they tin be (I have a list of the plate weights at the acme of the page). They aren't that heavy, but if y'all're hiking, running, or wearing them for a long time they tin can become uncomfortable. I had an extra-large vest and I'll tell you dam these things get heavy after a while. They're are commonly used past all military branches and are a good pick for personal defense. Y'all can detect SAPI plates in different sizes in shapes. Equally y'all tin can see from the weights below a plate carrier vest with inserts tin get a bit heavy.

Is a plate carrier better than a vest?

A plate carrier is always better than a vest because thick panels provide a higher level of protection than an ordinary vest.

They even protect you lot from bullets and heat.

Tin can civilians wear plate carriers?

The short answer is Yes.
Except for convicted felons, you will be easily able to purchase plate carriers online.

Though there can be exceptions vide land laws and local regulations.

What'due south the deviation between a bulletproof vest vs plate carrier?

A plate carrier provides more protection every bit it is heavy and has ballistic panels. While a bulletproof vest is lightweight and tactical.

A plate carrier tin't exist concealed. On the other hand, a bulletproof belong is concealable in public.

Does a plate carrier or ballistic vest cover your tummy?

A plate carrier for the most part does not comprehend the stomach. It is considering stomach wounds are not that life-threatening.

Also, leaving the tummy open helps in agility which is crucial in an emergency.

References:

Wikipedia: Plate Carriers and Armor Ratings

Encyclopedia Britannica: Bulletproof Vests

Last Thoughts

That concludes my review of the best plate carrier vests and flak jackets. There are a lot out there, y'all just demand to discover one that meets your preferences/needs.

If you experience that there is a not bad vest that should be added to this list, please let me know in the comments!

Also, let me know virtually your experiences with plate carriers in the comments every bit I really enjoy hearing about other people'southward experience with tactical gear!

Let me know if you lot accept any questions, it's always good to read comments and I'll reply equally fast equally I can.

Thanks for reading and be sure to check out the other pages on our website!

Oh and if you want to help us out and stay up to appointment on the latest tactical gear, like our Facebook folio! Thanks, Gents!

Semper Fi,

Corporal Wabo

Corporal Wabo is a former Infantry Squad Leader with tertiary Bn quaternary Marines that specialized in Mortars. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, hiking, running, shooting guns, and reviewing gear. He started this website while transitioning out of the Marines, and since has recruited several other Marines to help him work on the Marine Approved website. Nosotros are currently looking for erstwhile Marines to join the team who are interested in writing nearly tactical gear, survival gear, hiking supplies, etc. For more than information virtually u.s.a. or joining the team, check out the "About Us" tab.

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Source: https://www.marineapproved.com/best-plate-carrier-vests-review/

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