Home Forums Hunting & Shooting AR and Tactical Rifles Plate carriers

Fair question. It is unlikely I will ever use my cc pistol in self defense and even less likely I will use a vest in any situation. I definitely avoid stupid places at stupid times with stupid people.

Three years ago I also thought it was unlikely a presidential election would likely be stolen, city blocks would be ruled by anarchists, freedom of movement restricted by racist groups like BLM, our elected officials becoming openly communist, or that China would release a deadly virus and our government use it to further control its citizens.

I try not be paranoid, but it does not hurt to be a little prepared.

I agree. My family thinks I'm a little paranoid, but I'm not. Just somewhat prepared.

Man, you live in a rough neighborhood! South side of Chicago on a friday or saturday night?

Waffle House on coupon night.

Need to dial in the O2 and IV part, but we have IFAKs and full kits in every vehicle.

When I was in Iraq, the lead for one of the USAF units with frequent outside the wire adventures had two tourniquets on his vest and an extra in his IFAK for four total on his person.

When I asked him why, he said, "I'm wearing the armor because I expect incoming fire. I have the tourniquets because some dumb a$$ might actually hit me and I don't want to bleed out.

We carry lots of those, too.

I find this thread interesting. I understand being prepared; however, no amount of ammo, guns, or body armor will protect you from your most likely demise: heart disease or a pandemic or other health issues. What is everyone doing to over prepare for the more likely scenarios such as these? Or are we just trying to control what we can control?

Smitten2,

Interesting thought, not mildly relevant to this thread.

I’m in fantastic health. My last checkup the doctor said my labs and vitals were “abnormally normal”…..inow, I’m an incredible physical specimen.

David, I too carry 2 tourniquets. 1 on the vest and 1 in my IFAK and I have several in the main bag.

PS…I bought another fire extinguisher today. I suppose applying that by extension I must live in a very fire prone house. 😂

I've got nothing against armor & wouldn't mind having some. Just giving you folks a hard time.
What about a gas mask? I see surplus ones with the cartridge filters on sale sometimes.

David,

The vast majority of guys that wear level IV armor on a regular basis are going to wear whatever is issued with the plates. I've never met a person that has bought and tried multiple types of carriers and worn them extensively in an effort to determine which brand is best.

If I were having to purchase one I'd pick any decent brand that has the capabilities you're looking for. I prefer next to nothing on my armor. Two M4 mags and a sharpie is about my limit. I also have a flapped pouch for throwing schit in. Namely my cell phone. MOLLE would be essential of course.

Outside of that I wouldn't want anything. I also prefer a totally separate armor to belt system. Not an LBV type that is assembled as one.

Garand Thumb has some good reviews if your'e so inclined.

I use a Ferro Concepts Slickster. I chose Hesco L210 "Special Threat" plates to save weight and bulk over NIJ IV plates.

It's a decently comfortable setup but to be honest I don't use it very much. A small chest rig with a couple magazines, a secure UHF radio, laser rangefinder, maps, compass, notepad, and a snack or two is more practical for what I actually do. I often wear it on its own in camp or for quick jaunts; if out for more than an hour or so I'll wear a small hydration pack and sometimes a padded MOLLE belt as well.

Personally I sweat buckets with a plate carrier even in mild weather. Covering up that much of the upper body traps a lot of heat, particularly in a desert where summer temperatures in the 110s are not unheard of. A small chest rig is better, and belt/suspender LBE like ALICE is better still.

To those who don't see the point of body armor: it protects the largest part of your body from wounds that would otherwise cause immediate death or incapacitation. It's not a panacea and it doesn't make you Iron Man but that extra 10-15lbs is sometimes worth it. Remember that your intended usage should drive your gear selection.

This. Battle Belt and not a ton on the front of the carrier.

I have steel and light plates. Light level IV is worth the cash

What are you guys recommending for lightweight level IV armor?
Picked up a Crye lightweight SPC on sale from BCM.

Already have a small chest rig.

Crye lightweight carrier I picked up. .

Crye Airlite SPC on sale


Looking for recommendations on lightweight level IV plates


Not trying to hijack thread. Trying to embellish.

While I can understand your thoughts, I don't think anyone is going to all of a sudden prepare for heart disease, unless that preparation is to draw up a will.

Heart disease is something you are either preventing or not.

The "pandemic" is a contrived political move.

The only things you can prepare for health wise is to try to have meds on hand enough to last a little longer. Diabetic people in particular need to get insulin and test supplies ahead of need.

To the OP, I liked the Shellback Banshee PC, and I bought Hesco special threat plates. There are several good PC out there though. Shoulder straps angled a little, and adjustable fit will help it be more comfortable. Less crap hanging off it is a good thing as well. I've seen some guys carrying almost twice the load out I'd consider.

I’ve had a few different setups through work. My favorite/lightest/most comfortable was the armor express lighthawk 3.0XT IIIA Not a plate carrier per se but i could easily slide them in. I’d definitely like a personal carrier.