OFFGRID: Plate Carriers and Chest Rigs

Published on April 28, 2020
Duration: 69:52

This discussion features experienced military and law enforcement professionals sharing insights on plate carriers and chest rigs. Key takeaways include the importance of lightweight materials, proper weight distribution, mission-specific configurations, and prioritizing essential gear like medical supplies and magazines. The panelists emphasize that comfort, mobility, and survivability are paramount, urging users to avoid overpacking and to test their loadouts rigorously.

Quick Summary

Experts stress that when selecting plate carriers and chest rigs, prioritizing lightweight, durable materials and proper weight distribution is key for mobility and survivability. Essential items include medical gear, reliable magazine pouches, and batteries, while avoiding excessive weight from non-critical accessories is crucial for operational effectiveness.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Off-Grid Back Brief
  2. 00:40Panelist Introductions: Ed Calderon, Aaron Cowan, Dan Brokos, Gabriel Bryant
  3. 01:43Early Experiences with Kit: Dan Brokos
  4. 03:52Early Experiences with Kit: Aaron Cowan
  5. 05:54Early Experiences with Kit: Ed Calderon
  6. 07:58Early Experiences with Kit: Gabriel Bryant
  7. 08:56Biggest Lessons from Early Kit
  8. 10:32Lessons Learned: Mobility vs. Survivability
  9. 10:58Lessons Learned: Individualization vs. Uniformity
  10. 12:43Modifying Kits: Comfort and Balance
  11. 13:25Lessons Learned: Quick Release and Individualization
  12. 14:07Slick Front Loadouts and Waistline Gear
  13. 15:14Current Kit vs. Issued Gear
  14. 17:28What Are You Running Now?
  15. 17:51Aaron Cowan's Current Kit
  16. 19:20Dan Brokos' Current Kit: Lightweight Focus
  17. 21:04Ed Calderon's Current Kit: T3 Tactical Geronimo 2
  18. 23:30Gabriel Bryant's Current Kit: Arbor Arms Casket
  19. 24:57Dave Merrill's Current Kit: Tier & First Spear
  20. 26:46Most Important Qualities When Shopping for Kit
  21. 27:04Key Qualities: Snag Hazards & Water Behavior
  22. 27:15Key Qualities: Price Point & Reloading Strategy
  23. 28:26Key Qualities: Weight & Material
  24. 29:26Key Qualities: Maritime Disconnect & Weight
  25. 31:04Key Qualities: Plate Armor Investment & Realism
  26. 32:17Key Qualities: Quick Detachment & Weight
  27. 35:50Top 3 Must-Have Items for Plate Carriers/Chest Rigs
  28. 35:58Must-Haves: Medical Gear & Redundancy
  29. 36:56Must-Haves: Differentiating Equipment Priority
  30. 38:18Must-Haves: Redundancy, Fuel & Light, Cutting Implement
  31. 41:18Must-Haves: Magazines, Med, GP Pouches
  32. 43:07Chest Rigs vs. Integrated Plate Carriers
  33. 43:38Standalone Chest Rigs: Scenarios and Use Cases
  34. 45:21Gabriel Bryant's Top 3: Medical, Danglers, Mag Retention
  35. 46:41Chest Rigs on Armor vs. Full Battle Rattle
  36. 47:39Low-Vis and Urban-Centric Operations
  37. 49:05Chest Rigs: Pros and Cons (Snag Hazards)
  38. 50:07Slick Plate Carrier vs. Chest Rig Setup
  39. 50:43Too Much or Too Little Gear: Finding the Threshold
  40. 50:55Overpacking Ammunition: The Dangers of Excessive Weight
  41. 53:31Mission Set Dictates Loadout: VBSS Example
  42. 54:30Overdoing Kit: Bicep Protectors, Neck Guards
  43. 56:25Middle of the Road: Balancing Weight and Mobility
  44. 57:53Physical Capabilities and Self-Assessment
  45. 58:51Testing Gear: Pull-ups and Jogging
  46. 59:58Audience Questions: Plate Preferences
  47. 60:24Aaron Cowan's Plate Preferences
  48. 61:41Gabriel Bryant's Plate Preferences
  49. 62:38Dan Brokos' Plate Preferences: Ceramic
  50. 63:28Ed Calderon's Plate Preferences: Ceramic
  51. 64:34Recommendations for Female Operators
  52. 65:09Importance of Proper Fit for Women's Armor

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most important qualities to consider when buying tactical gear like plate carriers and chest rigs?

Experts emphasize lightweight materials, proper weight distribution to maintain mobility, and mission-specific features. Avoiding snag hazards, ensuring gear performs well when wet, and prioritizing essential items like medical supplies and magazines are crucial. Ultimately, the gear must support survivability and operational effectiveness without hindering movement.

How has tactical gear evolved from older systems to modern plate carriers and chest rigs?

Early systems like the RBA were heavy, stiff, and lacked modularity, often requiring user modifications. Modern gear utilizes advanced, lightweight materials like Dyneema and Cordura, offering significantly reduced weight and improved comfort. Features like MOLLE webbing, quick-release systems, and integrated dangler pouches enhance modularity and functionality.

What are the top three essential items to load onto a plate carrier or chest rig?

The consensus includes medical gear (IFAK with redundant tourniquets), reliable magazine pouches for both primary and secondary weapons, and general-purpose (GP) pouches for essential items like batteries, lights, and multi-tools. These items support immediate self-aid, sustained combat effectiveness, and operational needs.

Is there such a thing as too much gear on a plate carrier, and how can you avoid it?

Yes, overpacking with excessive ammunition or non-essential accessories can severely hinder mobility and lead to heat casualties. Experts advise being realistic about mission needs, prioritizing essential items, and testing loadouts through physical exertion. Gear should support, not impede, your ability to perform tasks and move effectively.

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