20 Best Plate Carriers of 2024
Our Comprehensive Guide for 2024
Choosing the right plate carrier is a crucial decision for those in tactical roles, offering life-saving protection and enhanced mobility. Our comprehensive guide covers the top 20 plate carriers available in 2024, with detailed features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed choice.
What is a Plate Carrier?
A plate carrier is a piece of body armor designed to hold ballistic plates, providing protection against bullets and shrapnel. Used extensively by military and law enforcement, plate carriers come in various designs and configurations to suit different operational needs. Modern plate carriers are often modular, allowing users to attach various pouches and equipment using MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing.
Soldier Plate Carrier System (SPCS)
The Soldier Plate Carrier System (SPCS) is a key example of military-grade plate carriers. Developed by KDH Defense Systems for the U.S. Army, it offers significant protection while being lighter and more comfortable than the Improved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV). The SPCS, known commercially as the KDH Magnum TAC-1, integrates Small Arms Protective Insert (SAPI) plates and Enhanced Side Ballistic Insert (ESBI) plates, providing comprehensive coverage. The SPCS is adjustable, features MOLLE webbing for additional gear, and includes a quick-release mechanism for emergencies.
Our Top 20 Plate Carriers
1. Crye Precision Jumpable Plate Carrier (JPC)
Weight: Approx. 1.3 lbs
Features: Rugged build, low-profile MOLLE, skeletal cummerbund, internal ventilation panels, integrated admin pouch, triple mag pouch, available in multiple sizes and colors.
Pros: Extremely lightweight, comfortable, customizable.
Cons: Higher price point.
Photo Courtesy of Crye Precision
2. Shellback Tactical Rampage 2.0 Plate Carrier
Weight: Approx. 3.8 lbs
Features: MultiCam, adjustable shoulder straps, cummerbund with mag pockets, multiple rows of MOLLE, 360° protection.
Pros: Heavy-duty ballistic protection, customizable fit.
Cons: Slightly heavier.
Photo Courtesy of Shellback
3. Agilite Gear K19 Plate Carrier
Weight: Approx. 2.8 lbs
Features: Quick-release buckles, Fast-Adjust™ cummerbund, Mil-Spec ballistic nylon, fusion foam padding, hydration compatibility.
Pros: Highly comfortable, versatile, made in Israel.
Cons: Expensive.
Photo Courtesy of Agilte
4. Condor Modular Operator Plate Carrier (MOPC)
Weight: Approx. 3.5 lbs
Features: Padded air mesh lining, adjustable shoulder straps, cummerbund for soft armor inserts, multiple MOLLE rows, VELCRO® straps for comms and hydration.
Pros: Comfortable, affordable, adjustable.
Cons: Bulky.
Photo Courtesy of Condor
5. 5.11 Tactical TacTec Plate Carrier
Weight: Approx. 2.5 lbs
Features: Water-resistant ballistic nylon, skeletonized waistband, adjustable shoulder straps, quick-release buckles, extendable drag handle.
Pros: Exceptional protection, designed for active combat.
Cons: Higher price range.
Photo Courtesy of 5.11 Tactical
6. HRT Tactical RAC Plate Carrier
Weight: Approx. 2.9 lbs
Features: Double-stitched, Teflon-coated CORDURA® nylon, VELCRO® spacers, airflow channels, adjustable waist, quick-release shoulder straps.
Pros: Durable, customizable, comfortable.
Cons: Limited availability.
Photo Courtesy of HRT Tactical
7. Condor Sentry Plate Carrier
Weight: Approx. 1.5 lbs
Features: Adjustable shoulder straps, padded interior, MOLLE webbing, accepts standard and SAPI plates.
Pros: Economical, ideal for airsoft and recreational use.
Cons: Limited durability.
Photo Courtesy of Condor
8. Shellback Tactical Skirmish Plate Carrier
Weight: Approx. 3.2 lbs
Features: Ballistic nylon, bar tacking, 3D spacer mesh, adjustable shoulder straps and cummerbund, MOLLE webbing, kangaroo pouch.
Pros: Built-to-last, breathable, 360° protection.
Cons: Heavier.
Photo Courtesy of Shellback
9. Rothco Lightweight Plate Carrier Vest
Weight: Approx. 1.8 lbs
Features: Skeletonized cummerbund, MOLLE webbing, adjustable harness, bungee cummerbund straps, integrated magazine pouches.
Pros: Affordable, breathable, ideal for hot climates.
Cons: Limited protection.
Photo Courtesy of Rothco
10. Tasmanian Tiger Plate Carrier LC
Weight: Approx. 2.2 lbs
Features: CORDURA® nylon, 3D mesh interior, integrated radio pouch, low-profile laser cut MOLLE.
Pros: Lightweight, durable, modular.
Cons: Limited to mid-level threats.
Photo Courtesy of Tasmanian
11. Ferro Concepts The Slickster
Weight: Approx. 1.5 lbs
Features: Low-profile design, cummerbund panels, mesh-lined plate bags, adjustable shoulder straps.
Pros: Versatile, comfortable, discreet.
Cons: Limited storage options.
Photo Courtesy of Ferro Concepts
12. Spartan Armor Systems Sentinel Plate Carrier
Weight: Approx. 2.8 lbs
Features: Breathable mesh interior, anti-slip shoulder padding, adjustable straps.
Pros: Durable, comfortable, versatile.
Cons: Slightly difficult to adjust.
Photo Courtesy of Spartan Armor Systems
13. RAPDOM Tactical Plate Carrier
Weight: Approx. 3.2 lbs
Features: 1,000-denier Kodra nylon, MOLLE webbing, quick-release tab, 3D mesh padding.
Pros: Military-grade, adjustable, durable.
Cons: Heavy.
Photo Courtesy of Rapid Dominance
14. Condor Exo Body Armor Plate Carrier Gen II
Weight: Approx. 3.5 lbs
Features: Adjustable fit, mesh ventilation, side panels for soft armor.
Pros: Comfortable, versatile, maximum protection.
Cons: Side flaps may not align straight.
Photo Courtesy of Condor
15. Barska VX-500 Plate Carrier Tactical Vest
Weight: Approx. 2.5 lbs
Features: MOLLE platform, internal adjustable cummerbund.
Pros: Versatile, durable, additional storage.
Cons: Bulky.
Photo Courtesy of Barska
16. Tactical Scorpion Gear Muircat Carrier
Weight: Approx. 2.8 lbs
Features: Level IIIA plates, easy to adjust, snug fit.
Pros: Affordable, dependable, comfortable.
Cons: Flat plates may not fit all users comfortably.
Photo Courtesy of Tactical Scorpion Gear
17. HRT LBAC Plate Carrier
Weight: Approx. 2.9 lbs
Features: Duo-density foam padding, modular features, attachment points.
Pros: Customizable, lightweight, comfortable.
Cons: "One-size-fits-all" may not fit everyone.
Photo Courtesy of HRT Tactical Gear
18. Rothco MOLLE Plate Carrier Vest
Weight: Approx. 3.0 lbs
Features: Cordura nylon, MOLLE webbing, detachable cummerbund.
Pros: Durable, versatile, customizable.
Cons: Velcro may weaken over time.
Photo Courtesy of Rothco
19. Ferro Concepts FCPC V5 Base
Weight: Approx. 2.4 lbs
Features: Contoured framework, versatile, customizable.
Pros: Lightweight, durable, adaptable.
Cons: Additional items need to be purchased separately.
Photo Courtesy of Ferro Concepts
20. Shellback Tactical Banshee Rifle Plate Carrier
Weight: Approx. 3.5 lbs
Features: 500D Nylon, adjustable shoulders, PALS webbing.
Pros: Lightweight, adjustable, durable.
Cons: Narrow design may be tricky for fitting weapons.
Photo Courtesy of Shellback
Choosing the Right Plate Carrier
Choosing the right plate carrier is a vital decision that impacts your safety and efficiency in the field. Our top 20 list features a range of options to suit various needs, from lightweight and versatile carriers to heavy-duty and highly protective ones. Equip yourself with the best to ensure maximum protection and performance in any situation.
For more detailed reviews and the latest updates on tactical gear, visit Info Decon. Stay informed, stay protected!
