What Airsoft Plate Carriers Come With Sapi Plates

What Airsoft Plate Carriers Come With Sapi Plates

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In this article, we'll review plate carrier vests from the lesser of the budget barrel all the style upward to Mil-Spec vests prepare for combat.

From weight to breathability to downright tacticool gene, nosotros'll cover it all! I accept used a number of them, so I tin tell you which ones are skilful and what features you should look for in a belong.

I'll besides show you where to buy existent plates (and the all-time blazon) to put inside the vest to get in every bit "bulletproof" as possible. For those of y'all looking for a plate carrier for fitness grooming, I recommend checking out my favorite weighted vests hither.

• Here Are the Best Plate Carriers
  • ane. TacTec Plate Carrier by 5.xi (Best Value)
  • two. Crye Precision Adaptive Vest System (AVS)
  • iii. LBT Modular Plate Carrier LBT-6094A
  • four. Crye Precision AirLite SPC
  • 5. Crye Precision JPC 2.0
  • half-dozen. Crye Precision JPC Plate Carrier
  • vii. Shellback Tactical Banshee Elite ii.0
  • eight. AR500 Armor Veritas (Great Budget Option)
  • ix. Condor MOPC Plate Carrier (Another Great Upkeep Option)
  • 10. HRT RAC Plate Carrier
  • 11. Tactical Molle Coozy (All-time Design)
  • 12. SDS BAE Ranger Releasable Vest System
  • 13. Gloryfire Modular Assault Belong
  • 14. vAv Yakeda VT-1099
  • 15. ArcEnCiel Tactical MOLLE Vest
  • xvi. vAv Yakeda Outdoor Vest
  • 17. Elite Spanker Tactical Paintball and Airsoft Vest
• FAQs

Soft Body Armor vs Plates

I'll go more in particular and cover the pros and cons of each type of torso armor beneath. To give you lot a brief summary, soft body armor is effective at stopping smaller quotient rounds similar 9mm, but it doesn't offer the same level of protection every bit plates. If darkening isn't a factor for you, I recommend a vest that allows you to insert hard plates.

Hither is a good video I institute on YouTube nearly plate carrier setup and has some information you lot may detect valuable. I recommend skipping direct to 1:50 in the video.

1. Level of Protection

Level of protection is an important consideration. Unlike vests and plates take different rating levels that allow you lot know what blazon of rounds they can effectively stop (more on this below). Before nosotros encompass that, here are the types of vests out at that place to choose from.

Plate carriers are designed to acquit inserts fabricated to stop real ballistic rounds. The plates within the vest encompass and protect the vital organs of the upper body. Some vests let you to insert side and back plates, which might exist a little overkill for civilian use, just hey if you don't mind conveying a little extra weight go for it. They typically have MOLLE attachments and pockets to acquit other military-style gear.

Soft bulletproof vests are nice because they are concealable and much lighter than plate carriers. That said, soft vests do have some major downsides. While they can effectively 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 similar magazine pouches and other gear. They are typically lightweight, merely typically don't accept any areas to insert hard or soft plates. As far equally protection goes, they aren't much better than just wearing a regular vest or shirt.

2. Ratings and Certifications

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ), which is function of the Department of Justice has been setting body armor standards for a long time. Here is a link to the National Institute of Justice website with armor standards. These allow yous to know what blazon of rounds the armor you're looking at can realistically cease. Here are the levels.

Handgun Calibers

• Level IIA: Effective against 9mm to .forty ammunition fired from short butt handguns. Non effective confronting rifles
• Level Ii: Constructive against 9mm and .357 magnum ammunition from brusk butt handguns. Not effective against rifles.
• Level IIIA: Effective against .357 and .44 magnum ammunition from long butt handguns. Not constructive confronting rifles

Rifle Calibers

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

3. The Different Types of Plates

SAPI Plates (Modest Arms Protective Inserts) are used past all branches of the United states military and are what we used in the Marines. Kevlar vests are not bad, but as mentioned above for rounds larger than 9mm they're largely ineffective. SAPI plates were specifically designed to stop college caliber rounds than standard Kevlar vests. SAPI plates are basically ceramic plates (described beneath) covered in a tough composite material (to trap fragments).

There are actually different types, but they're typically fabricated of boron carbide or silicon carbide ceramic. The level of protection is great, only they're quite a bit heavier than soft plates. In the Marines, we had to vesture these plates in the front, back, and sizes of our belong. The major downside of SAPI and ceramic plates is they are only designed to cease ane impact in the aforementioned spot. This is because they shatter when hit to absorb the kinetic energy from the round.

Estimated Plate Weights:

• Extra minor plate: About 2.8 pounds
• Pocket-sized plate: Nigh 3.5 pounds
• Medium plate: four.0 pounds
• Big plate: 4.6 pounds
• Actress Large Plate: v.3 pounds

Ceramic Plates are a common type of plate you tin observe for sale. They were first used on a large scale during Operation Desert Storm. They were a breakthrough in body armor technology and were much lighter than other types of armor at the fourth dimension. That said, they're still pretty heavy and bulky.

With ceramic plates, you have to weigh the benefits of increased protection with the cons that come with a heavy vest. You lot run into this a lot in the armed forces; guys will remove their side or dorsum plates to drop weight and increase their mobility. Likewise continue in heed that because they are designed to shatter when struck by a bullet, they are only constructive at stopping one round in the same area. With ceramic plates, you also demand to be conscientious to not drop them and think to service them if they take a hard touch.

Polyethylene Plates are another type of plate you 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 impact. The heat of the bullet actually melts the polyethylene and helps stop the circular.

Steel Plates are an old blazon of plate that I don't recommend considering of the weight. Steel has been used for centuries, and if it's thick plenty it can account stop ballistic rounds. It was originally made to stop rounds from musket rifles but is still effective against mod firearms.

4. Weight and Heat Considerations

Weight is some other important factor, especially if you lot're planning on wearing the vest for long periods of time. If you're looking for a vest to conditioning in you lot might actually want 1 that is heavy.

If you lot're looking for a vest for home defense or sports similar paintball/airsoft you lot probably want to look for 1 that is lightweight. I'll list the weight for each belong beneath, so yous tin can compare.

If you lot're wearing a heavy vest and moving around a lot, y'all're going to sweat a lot. In the Marines, after hikes, our cammies would exist totally soaked under our plate carriers. If you program on wearing the plate carrier for a long fourth dimension, I recommend attaching a hydration bladder to the back, so you can stay hydrated and prevent overheating.

5. Functionally and Attachments

You desire to make sure you get a plate carrier that has MOLLE attachments and places where you can attach ammo pouches or other gear you desire to take on you. Certain vests have lots of places for attachments and accessories, while others are more minimalist.

MOLLE (pronounced similar Molly) is an acronym that stands for  "Modular Lightweight Loadbearing Equipment". At the very basic level, information technology'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 rapidly and hands 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 considering you lot can customize where the items get and you lot'll ever take quick admission to what you need the most when it counts. Almost high-quality plate carriers will be riddled with MOLLE and basically, all military issued vests encompass MOLLE in one fashion or another.

Here Are the Best Plate Carriers

1. TacTec Plate Carrier past v.eleven (All-time Value)

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Estimated Price: $200

My Review:  5.xi took their time and interviewed the highest level operators in the world and asked for their feedback while designing the TacTec Plate carrier. That effort did non go unnoticed and the attention to item and unique features of this plate carrier set it apart in many dissimilar ways.

While it was purpose-built for armed forces and law enforcement, it'southward so comfortable and offers such practiced mobility that it was adopted past the CrossFit industry, and is now the official plate carrier of the Crossfit Games. This is no surprise as the TacTec has these massive airflow channels that keep you cool and aid to minimize sweat building up under the vest. These air channels are highly appreciated past Crossfitters and Military personnel all over the world!

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So what'due south so great about it? Well, for starters, it's the most comfortable and cool plate carrier I've e'er worn. five.11 incorporated padded yoke-way shoulder straps, the same way that makes 5.11 backpacks so comfortable. This technology distributes the weight of the plate carrier very well and eliminates common plate carrier pressure points. 5.xi also immune the shoulder straps to take a little play, which allows them to motion with the body, but not so much that they feel loose. The mesh/skeletonized cummerbund system is elastic and has some flex to it. This allows the plate carrier to stay tight confronting the body merely still gives a little chip of flex, making it a lot more than comfortable when bending, jumping, picking upward heavy objects, leaning, or switching from prone to standing or vice versa. The mesh organisation makes it very breathable and nonetheless allows for molle attachments and fifty-fifty side SAPIs. The plate carrier is tapered at the top to give operators more liberty to motion, while still allowing it to concord medium and large plates. This tapering mode is as well a much better shape to swim, climb, and hold things over your head.

Y'all go a laser cut molle/velcro panel on the upper half of both sides of the plate carrier and at that place is enough of space to put your ID and morale patches, along with a front end compartment to agree maps and other gear. The unabridged vest can be taken off in seconds with the particularly designed one-handed quick-release system.

The drag arrangement is 1 feature on this vest 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 prey to stay in a more powerful upright position. This makes information technology much faster to movement casualties, requires less effort, and allows the person dragging to the casualty to face the management of travel, increasing situational sensation. Funker Tactical did an awesome torture test of the drag system here if you're interested in checking information technology out.

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

Here is a cool video past 5.xi that explains why this vest is then popular in the Crossfit community. Rogue Fitness actually makes non-ballistic plates that are cheaper than ownership forepart and back ballistic plates if yous're planning on using this plate carrier for fitness preparation. Y'all can find the contoured plates here and the non-contoured plates here.

The five.eleven TacTec is an awesome plate carrier that offers meliorate mobility and flexibility than whatever plate I've worn. Purchase in one case cry in one case, I know 5.11 products seem a flake pricey but they are built by the people that know what we demand and they utilize simply the best materials because they know it matters. It 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 choice, but for most people, this is a great option. I purchased both the fettle-specific plates (you can observe them cheap used on eBay) and AR500 ballistic plates hither.

Key Features:

• Vest weight: ii.5lbs
• Compatible plate size: Medium (12.five″ x 9.five″ x 2″) and Large (xiii.25 x ten.25 ten two.25 SAPI plates.
• Modularity options: No modularity options
• Color schemes: Standard Black, Navy Blue, Tac OD, Sandstone, Terrain, and MultiCam
• Material Structure: 500D Cordura

2. Crye Precision Adaptive Belong System (AVS)

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

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

What makes the AVS so popular and and then highly rated? Well, they're synthetic of war machine-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-ons and assets. The AVS is perfect for those of us who aren't privy to mission information ahead of time and may receive an ever-evolving threat or new orders to execute with very little time to set or reconfigure. The AVS is ready for the operator that needs to be set up for annihilation and everything no matter what.

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Crye Precision sells an AVS customization kit which is basically a massive set of buckles, straps, MOLLE straps, pads, belts, etc that you tin can use to ensure the AVS fits absolutely flawlessly over any other gear you lot might accept on and further extend the AVS'southward adequacy to acquit gear and arrange armor plates. You could also grab just the standard plate pouch set and grab the AVS ii-Ring Skeletal Cummerbund for just a plate carrier configuration with no storage. This would cost yous 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 there are and so many options, we won't listing a set weight here. The base AVS harness though weighs about one-half a pound.
• Uniform Plate Size: This depends on which plate carrier system you cull only for the most part, the AVS could exist compatible with just almost plate that follows somewhat standard sizing options.
• Modularity Options: Pond friendly armor plate set, a modular body armor set-up (MBAV), the Crye Precision standard AVS plate pouch organisation, detachable caliber-specific pouches and mag dumps, loadbearing and low contour belt, detachable MOLLE systems and MOLLE extensions, several dissimilar cummerbund systems, peripheral storage options, quick detach radio pouches, padded yokes, padded shoulder covers, extendable STKSS load supports, and the AVS 1000 backpack which is purpose-built to fit and operate with the AVS vest arrangement.
• Color Schemes: Coyote Brown, Apartment Black, Ranger Green, and MultiCam.
• Fabric Construction: 500D Cordura

3. LBT Modular Plate Carrier LBT-6094A

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Estimated Price: Roughly $450 + Add-ons

My Review: First 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 upwards to Swimmer SAPI plates, the "B" variant is compatible with large SAPI plates while the "C" variant is compatible with Xl SAPI plates. We just really like the 6094A, so that's what we've called, notwithstanding, another model may arrange your specific use case better.

Like many modular plate carrier systems, these consist of the same great 500D Cordura construction that has proven time and time once more to be reliable, durable, and rather lightweight. Every chance LBT had to reinforce a seam or strap was taken with high-quality Bar-Tacks and Type Eastward Mil-Spec threaded stitching. These vests, no matter which model you choose, are extremely high quality and are some of the nearly durable lightweight vests on the market. Of class, the price reflects this, equally I'm certain they don't have many echo customers and not because they aren't practiced but because they are so practiced most people only need to buy 1.

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Bated from the astounding quality y'all receive hither, you lot can wait some pretty standard modularity attributes such as a plethora of web attachment points littered over the unabridged 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 neckband armor.

I'll post a video below where a Navy SEAL goes over his setup with this vest. I think yous'll find it useful.

Key Features:

• Vest Weight: 3.13lbs
• Compatible Plate Size: Medium size ten"x12"
• Modularity Options: Hooks for shoulder and neck armor attachments, webbing attachments for extra mag storage, radio storage, etc, removable side panels, and removable shoulder pads.
• Colour Schemes: MultiCam, Mas Gray, Ranger Light-green, Black, Coyote Tan, Coyote Brown, and Olive Drab
• Material Construction: 500D Cordura

four. Crye Precision AirLite SPC

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Estimated Price: $170 gets y'all the AirLite SPC vest and and then you'll need to cost out the accessories and additions you need separately. The AirLite Structural Cummberbund will cost roughly $lxxx and can exist plant hither.

My Review: The AirLite SPC (Structural Plate Carrier) is virtually the best of both worlds betwixt the technology constitute in the JPC two.0 and the structural integrity of the AVS. Of course, the AirLite SPC is ultra modular and, just like the proper noun suggests, is purpose-built to be every bit light every bit possible. AirLite itself is actually the proper name of the material that Crye Precision is using, which is essentially a super light tightly woven nylon that sheds h2o and is every bit or more tear-resistant than heavier nylons.

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

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

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The AirLite doesn't come with a built-in admin pouch on the front of the chest similar the JPC ii.0 has, which for me, isn't a deal breaker but I did want you to be enlightened of that.

Of course, the AirLite SPC is quite modular just some of that modularity comes in a proprietary flavor, meaning you should ensure the improver yous're planning on adding fits if it'due south from another brand. The loops on the rear side of the shoulder straps are there to back up the AVS 1000 light pack. All of the Crye Precision front flap and groin protection additions are uniform with the SPC AirLite every bit well as the SM/MD zipper panel accessories.

As with many of the premium vests offered by Crye Precision, the AirLite SPC is compatible with the Extendable Structural Kinetic Support System (STKSS) which is one of the best aligning systems of any plate carrier on the market today. Check out the Crye Precision STKSS system at this link hither. I highly suggest this add-on as information technology profoundly reduces the cumbersome weight on your shoulders and more evenly applies the weight of the belong and your gear over the entirety of the vest.

One of the concluding primal 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 nearly any other plate carrier systems which is especially helpful for allowing sweat to dry and air to motility between you and your plates. Now, ordinarily, mesh used like this becomes extremely uncomfortable as the mesh isn't exactly soft, all the same, on the SPC there are what I can but depict equally packets of padding around these mesh areas that allow the mesh to sit slightly off of your body, ensuring the mesh doesn't get uncomfortable over fourth dimension.

The Crye Precision AirLite is available here in a Swimmers Cut.

Key Features:

• Vest Weight: Only a little over a pound including the vest, cummerbund, and front flap
• Compatible Plate Size: Adjustable plate bags that fit all standard SAPI plates
• Modularity Options: Highly modular and accepts most of the AVS add-ons too as any Crye Precision front flap, groin protection, small packs, zippo-upwards forepart panels, side ballistic coverage, and more.
• Colour Schemes: Multicam, Coyote Tan, Ranger Green, and Black
• Material Construction: Crye Precision Proprietary AirLite (T420 High Tenacity Fibrous Nylon). Information technology'due south basically h2o-shedding tightly woven nylon that is roughly 40% lighter than traditional nylon fabrics used in other plate carriers.

five. Crye Precision JPC 2.0

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Estimated Price: Effectually $245

My Review: The JPC two.0 is purpose-built to be lightweight and mobile. Using the absolute lightest materials possible, this is 1 of the easiest plate carriers to maintain about full motility and agility in. The proprietary skeletal cummerbund organization maintains an extremely breathable configuration while still ensuring maximum protection. Even better, the plate carrier section is made of durable stretchable material, assuasive for every size and blazon of plate to sit snuggly.

You lot can detect this plate carrier in four different color configurations and a plethora of aftermarket attachments such as the AVS flaps. The vest has a lay-flat drag handle and plenty of webbing loops for back console supports. Overall, this is ane of the lightest and most compact plate carrier systems on the marketplace today and it comes with a 2-step emergency doffing capability that is likely the fastest in the electric current market place.

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

Fundamental Features:

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

6. Crye Precision JPC Plate Carrier

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Estimated Toll: $210

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

The JPC 1.0 has a minimalist design and offers a variety 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 vest less bulky when carrier gear. It's a lightweight vest (the smallest size weighs about 1.two pounds and the largest XL vest weighs virtually ane.v pounds. If y'all desire to know what size to purchase check out the sizing chart on the Cry Precision website here.

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

Key Features:

• Vest Weight: 1lb-ane.2lbs depending on the size y'all cull
• Compatible Plate Size: This detail belong is sized to accommodate SAPI standard plates and thus fits awkwardly with noncombatant sized plates similar the 10″x12″. Plate size as well depends on belong size which ranges from pocket-size, medium, large, and extra-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 chop-chop and easily mounted on both the inside and exterior of the cummerbund.
• Color Schemes: MultiCam, Ranger Light-green, and Coyote Tan.
• Material Construction: 500D Cordura

7. Shellback Tactical Banshee Elite ii.0

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Toll: Around $290

My Review: Phew, this one volition take a hefty blow to the bank digits so information technology must be something damn tacticool, right?

Right! It'southward ane of the best plate carriers out in that location as its purpose-built for combat by people who take seen combat. It's constructed of the finest 500D Cordura nylon which is one of the lightest simply most durable types of nylon available. The entire thing is built to be tough as nails only they've gone and tried to keep your body temps as low as possible by adding ventilation and 3D mesh to keep the air flowing. The shoulders and basically any betoken of contact with the body is padded for long duration usage and has enough of built-in storage for just virtually every gadget y'all'd always need in the field.

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

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Key Features:

• Belong Weight: Roughly 3lbs
• Compatible Plate Size: Up to x″x12″ level three/iv ESAPI
• Modularity Options: Compatible with hydration tubes, shoulder wiring, attachment to the six PALS webbing arrangement, removable Banshee Elite Cummerbund, and two vertical nylon strips that can arrange QASM buckles for chest rig attachments.
• Color Schemes: Black, Wolf Grayness, Ranger Green, and MultiCam
• Cloth Construction: 500D Cordura

8. AR500 Armor Veritas (Great Budget Option)

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Estimated Price: $80 for merely the vest + add together-ons

My Review: The Veritas is a peachy modular plate carrier offered past an extremely well-respected brand, AR500 Armor. You may know of them from their large selection of armor plates and as such, it's only fitting they offering you a fashion to bear those slabs of armor.

The AR500 Armor Veritas, coming in at only 1 pound and 14 ounces for the base layer, is one of the lighter modular systems on the market place that isn't priced sky high and equally information technology'due south made of 500D Cordura, you won't be weighed downwards 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 do not shift effectually. 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 do the proprietary thing and they allow compatibility with well-nigh chest rig mounts, rear load-bearing systems, and extensions on the market today. This means that if you already have gear from another company, information technology'south probable information technology'll work in tandem with the Veritas modular vest platform.

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AR500 Made an crawly video overview of this plate carrier that I think you'll find useful if you're looking for a budget-friendly plate carrier.

Key Features:

• Vest Weight: 1.875lbs
• Uniform Plate Size: Up to ten"x12" plates except for the 10"x12" AR500 foursquare plates (also does not concur eleven×14 plates)
• Modularity Options: Highly modular with a suite of additions including the Veritas Adaptive Plate inserts and cummerbund kit. Also includes dual high and low admin pouches that tin be extended with the AR500 Armor Cummerbund system 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 (Some other Neat Upkeep Option)

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Estimated Price: $seventy

My Review: The Condor Modular Operator Plate Carrier (MOPC) is a very popular plate carrier that for the coin is almost impossible to beat. Although it comes with no attachments, at around $sixty this vest is an accented steal.

This vest is suitable for noncombatant applications and most people won't ever need to upgrade to a higher-finish belong or beingness displeased with information technology down the road. Sure, in that location are higher-finish vests that I would opt for if I were actually heading into a state of war zone, but for most people, this vest volition exercise the trick.

I like the broad shoulder straps, it's a very comfortable and well-made fabricated vest. Information technology's a simple rig made by one of the almost reputable companies in the manufacture. Of all the carriers on this list, this one is the most like the KHD Defence plate carrier used by Marines.

Information technology utilizes the PAL organisation, so you won't have to worry virtually ownership a MOLLE attachment that won't fit on the vest.

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

Potential cons:

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

Primal Features:

• Accepts: Medium or Large ESAPI plates upward to x.25 ten 13.25 inches
  (Side plates up to vi×8″)
• Size: Adjustable (Medium to Xl)Top choice for value
• Comfy for long duration usage
• Breathable mesh interior

10. HRT RAC Plate Carrier

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Estimated Cost: $200

My Review: These are an excellent option for staying cool and comfy and are probably some of the almost comfortable vest options, especially for hot climate operation. The shoulder pads are of some of the best in terms of comfort and the unabridged vest is designed around 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 one of the lighter vests on the market today and was purpose-congenital to be more of a lightweight platform to use in hot climates. Of course, this is still a solid pick if yous don't need the cooling furnishings.

Key Features:

• These will fit plates of up to x"x13".
• Constructed out of lightweight but heavy-duty 500D Cordura
• Designed specifically to accommodate acceptable airflow for the operator
• Duraflex Buckle modular platform
• Many additional options such as the HRT Quick Release Cummerbund system available
• Available in the following color configurations: Black, MultiCam, MultiCam/Black, Ranger Green, and Coyote Brown

eleven. Tactical Molle Coozy (Best Blueprint)

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My Review: Yous know how to protect your vital goodies but have you considered the security of your brewskies? Drinking beer in a warzone is no easy feat and having it spilled by a devious 7.62 is a pretty lame excuse for running out of beer.

Stack these bad boys up and protect those precious hops!

Notation: Molle functionality makes information technology easy to add an admin pouch to store a bottle opener and bad ideas list.

Key Features:

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

12. SDS BAE Ranger Releasable Belong System

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My Review: First of all, lamentable I don't accept an prototype for this i. You tin check to see a moving picture of the plate carrier here if you lot're curious.

Most certainly not the cheapest pick available, the SDS Ranger is an all-encompassing monster of a vest! It'll fit standard 10×12" plates in both front end and back with ease while maintaining a very tight squeeze, ensuring those plates won't be moving most when you are.

The quick releasability is specially helpful for quick deployment and shimmying out of the matter when need be. There'south not much to say other than that this is one of the most durable and reliable styles of plate carrier vests on the market. The blueprint this vest utilizes is pretty widely known to be the leading edge of torso armor vests.

Potential cons:

• A scrap more than expensive than most other plate carriers on this list that are similar quality

Central Features:

• Ultra fast release power
• One of the well-nigh coveted and admired pattern styles

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

13. Gloryfire Modular Assault Vest

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Note: This Plate Carrier was recently delisted on Amazon, if information technology comes back in stock I will post a link.
Accepts: Hard and Soft Plates
Size: Medium to Ten-Big (Adjustable)
Holds Plates: Up to 10.5" 10 13.5" (Front end and Back)
Holds 6"x6" Side SAPIs
Fabric: Durable 1000D Nylon
Colors: Black, Tan, or Olive Drab

Amazon Prime members, this one is for you! If you're looking for a plate carrier vest to put real plates into for personal defence, or a good vest for preparation, paintball, and/or airsoft this is a good option. It too reminds me of the KHD plate carriers we used in the Marines. The vest does not come up with hard or soft armor plates, only I'll testify you some good places to buy some at the bottom of the page. Call back that although this vest is made from a very stiff anti-tear polyester, it'southward not Kevlar, so if you have a real circular to the breast without armor plates thinking it's Kevlar you'll surely read product descriptions from now on (if you live).

Overall, it is the best plate carrier for the money that you can buy on Amazon. Personally, I would choose the MOPC over this, only both are slap-up options. Information technology is very adaptable, so y'all can get a tight fit. It also has broad padded shoulder straps that distribute the weight of the vest nicely.

Potential cons:

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

Key Features:

• Accommodates mag pouches and has built in utility pouches
• Thick, durable, and breathable
• Adjustable velcro side straps
• Accepts side SAPIs (Soft and Hard)
• Backed by a 2-year quality warranty

14. vAv Yakeda VT-1099

Cheque Price on Amazon

Annotation: This plate carrier was also recently delisted by Amazon. I will repost a link if it becomes available.

• Accepts: Difficult and Soft Plates
• Size: Due south-XXL (Adjustable)
• Textile: Durable 1000D Nylon
• Weight: 2.1lb
• Holds plates: Upward to 10" by 12" (Front and Dorsum)
• Max waist sizes: 56 inches

If you're looking for a minimalist, low profile, 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 condolement and body rut dispersion.

A nice affair about this vest is that information technology'southward very adaptable every bit far as size. I know a lot of larger guys accept a hard fourth dimension finding a belong that fits right. It also comes with three mag pouches that tin can be removed or replaced.

Potential cons:

• Cannot concur side plates
• Plates not included

Key Features:

• Usable with both soft and hard armor plates
• 3 point adjustable height 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 50" waist"
• Concur plates: 8×10 or x×12
• Vest Manner: War machine Vest

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

Like the other plate carriers on this list, it is very adjustable. Information technology'due south a great military vest for preparation, home defence force, paintball, airsoft, and tactical grooming.

Potential cons:

• Plates not included

Key Features:

• Holds soft and difficult armor plates
• Webbing loops on shoulder straps
• Velcro department for morale patches
• Includes 3 mag pouches, 2 communication pouches, flashlight pouch, medic pouch, and admin pouch

sixteen. vAv Yakeda Outdoor Vest

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• Accepts: Soft and Hard Plates
• Size: Adjustable (Southward-XXL)
• Material: Durable 900D Nylon
• Weight: 3.ix pounds (one.78kg)

Notation: Information technology looks similar this model is out of stock right right at present.

vAv Yakeda is known for making high quality and affordable vests. This belong can hold plates, but they are likewise known for making good utility vests. Like the others on this list, this vest is highly adaptable to fit a wide range of sizes. The waist is adaptable up to l inches.

It is fabricated with thick and durable 900D nylon that isn't going to tear or rip like a inexpensive plate carrier vest. Another affair I love about this setup is the cost. This might just be the best plate carrier for the coin.

Potential cons:

• Plates not included

Central Features:

• Holds soft and difficult armor plates
• 3 Mag pouches, velcro area for patch, two communication pouches, and flashlight / map pouch
• Good for Paintball and Airsoft

17. Elite Spanker Tactical Paintball and Airsoft Belong

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

• Accepts: Hard and Soft Plates
• Material: 1050D Nylon
• Size: Adjustable (Max Waist of 48" Minimum of 32")
• Style: Military belong
• Weight: one.875 pounds
• Available Colors: Blackness / Multicolor / Ranger Green / Coyote Brownish

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

There is as well a MOLLE system on the back of the vest where you lot can attach a hydration float. When yous'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 non 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?

Information technology can be hard to find armor plates, It really just depends on what kind you desire, but here 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 good blindside for your buck.

eBay:

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

Gun Broker:

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

Local Gun Shows:

This i is self-explanatory, but an oftentimes disregarded option. Gun shows are a peachy place to find armor and talk to an experienced salesman well-nigh the all-time armor plates for yous. You tin besides negotiate on the cost and sometimes become an absolute steal! As always, being able to attempt on gear before you buy is a huge plus. My personal advice would be to find a gun prove and try on a few different pieces to figure out what y'all like, and so shop around online for the best deals.

FAQs

What Type of Body Armor Does the Military machine Use?

Marine Infantry and I believe the regular army both utilize KDH vests. The KDH company makes a quality plate carrier organisation that has a cummerbund style main vest with removable side plates (up to vii×8"). The 2-betoken cutaway system has 360-degree MOLLE zipper points, a quick release system, a elevate handle, integrated advice channels, scalable modular components, and other great features. I don't know if y'all tin buy this vest as a civilian, merely y'all can check out the KDH website here. They have a contact tab on their website with a contact form and telephone number. I'1000 certain they would be more than than happy to answer your questions.

Are Plate Carriers with Inserts Really that Heavy?

The uncomplicated answer is they tin be (I have a list of the plate weights at the top of the page). They aren't that heavy, but if you're hiking, running, or wearing them for a long time they tin get uncomfortable. I had an extra-big vest and I'll tell you dam these things go heavy afterwards a while. These are normally used by all military branches and are a good choice for personal defence. You lot can find SAPI plates in dissimilar sizes in shapes. As you can see from the weights below a plate carrier belong with inserts can get a chip heavy.

What are Some Attachments You Recommend?

Admin Pouch: Admin pouches are dainty to hold things like a modest notepad, pens, batteries, and other things y'all'd similar to be able to access speedily.

Dump Pouch: If y'all're planning on using this vest for shooting and armed services-style training a dump pouch is a great attachment. When you lot'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 allow you to save a lot of time that would take to be spent going back looking for your mags. Y'all tin can too fill up a dump pouch with other gear yous'd similar to carry.

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

Nigh the vests on this list are they're very adjustable to arrange a broad range of sizes, only if you buy the vest on amazon they will usually accept returns. I recommend reading the product pages to run into the max and minimum waist sizes, so you don't have this problem. I'll do my best to list the size specifications adjacent to each plate carrier.

What are the Downsides to Plate Carriers?

The major downside when information technology comes to plate carriers or more than lightweight tactical vests is the sheer weight and bulkiness. They do get a scrap uncomfortable after wearing them for a long time and practice restrict the speed of your movements slightly. Overall you have to weigh the pros and cons to decide to notice the best plate carrier for your needs. Some are more minimalistic and will exist easier to move effectually in and are better for just training.

What are Some Advantages of Soft Body Armor?

The major advantage of soft body armor is that it's concealable. Most soft armor can fit discretely undergarments, so no one will fifty-fifty be aware you're wearing a ballistic vest. It doesn't offer the same level of protection as plate carriers, but information technology'due south still a heck of a lot amend than nothing. On summit of that, it's more than flexible and comfy when wearing for long periods of time.

What Size Magazines Can the Vests Hold?

Most vests easily arrange the most popular .223 and .556 NATO rounds. If you're looking to agree a much larger bullet caliber or extended mags you may want to purchase aftermarket mag pouches that yous can attach through the vests MOLLE organization.

Do Plate Carriers Increment the Adventure of Overheating?

Definitely, you lot'll want to make certain you're crushing water if you're moving around a lot. Look for a good hydration bladder to attach to the back of the vests. Most quality vests will have MOLLE functionality on the dorsum that will allow y'all to adhere a bladder. Or you tin can just utilise the straps on the hydration bladder and put it on over your vest. That's how I unremarkably had mine set up up when I was in the Marines.

How Many Rounds Tin Bullet Proof  Vests Stop?

This really depends on the blazon of armor/plates you're wearing. I recommend referring to the superlative of the page and reading about the different types of plates and the protection ratings set past the NIJ. Practice notation that some plates are really designed to shatter when shot to absorb the impact of the round. If y'all're using the plate carrier for civilian uses similar habitation defense it's unlikely y'all'll be shot in the aforementioned identify twice, just information technology's all the same an important consideration when choosing a vest.

How to Wash a Plate Carrier?

Plate carriers cannot exist put in washing machines. For each specific carrier it's all-time to read the manual they will explain exactly how to wash information technology.

Should I Buy a Camouflage Vest?

Sometimes the camo plate carriers are actually more expensive. In many settings camouflage really won't even be an advantage so my brusk answer would be not, but if you're using the vest for something like paintball or airsoft in a woodland setting it might be a good idea.

Are Plate Carriers with Inserts Really that Heavy?

The simple answer is they can be (I have a list of the plate weights at the peak of the page). They aren't that heavy, but if y'all're hiking, running, or wearing them for a long time they can get uncomfortable. I had an extra-large vest and I'll tell you dam these things get heavy subsequently a while. They're are unremarkably used by all war machine branches and are a good option for personal defense. You can notice SAPI plates in different sizes in shapes. As you can run into from the weights beneath a plate carrier vest with inserts tin can go a scrap heavy.

Is a plate carrier better than a vest?

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

They even protect you from bullets and heat.

Can civilians habiliment plate carriers?

The curt answer is Yep.
Except for convicted felons, you will be easily able to buy plate carriers online.

Though there tin can be exceptions vide country laws and local regulations.

What's the difference between a bulletproof vest vs plate carrier?

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

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

Does a plate carrier or ballistic vest encompass your stomach?

A plate carrier for the virtually office does non cover the stomach. It is because stomach wounds are not that life-threatening.

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

References:

Wikipedia: Plate Carriers and Armor Ratings

Encyclopedia Britannica: Impenetrable Vests

Final Thoughts

That concludes my review of the best plate carrier vests and flak jackets. There are a lot out at that place, you just need to find ane that meets your preferences/needs.

If you feel that there is a great vest that should be added to this listing, please permit me know in the comments!

Likewise, let me know almost your experiences with plate carriers in the comments as I really enjoy hearing about other people'southward experience with tactical gear!

Permit me know if you have any questions, it's always good to read comments and I'll answer as fast as I can.

Cheers for reading and be certain to check out the other pages on our website!

Oh and if you want to help us out and stay upward to date on the latest tactical gear, like our Facebook page! Cheers, Gents!

Semper Fi,

Corporal Wabo

Corporal Wabo is a former Infantry Squad Leader with third Bn 4th Marines that specialized in Mortars. In his complimentary 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 piece of work on the Marine Approved website. We are currently looking for onetime Marines to join the team who are interested in writing about tactical gear, survival gear, hiking supplies, etc. For more information about us or joining the team, bank check out the "About U.s.a." tab.

What Airsoft Plate Carriers Come With Sapi Plates

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