Plate Carrier vs Chest Rig | Which Should You Buy First For SHTF Prepping?

[@MagicPrepper]

Do you agree with my opinion on which of these two pieces of gear is better to buy first? What order did you purchase yours in? I definitely bought a plate carrier first due to the concept of "well it can have armor so that only makes more sense". However, I think I would've done well to buy a high quality chest rig first. The plate carrier in this video is a Premier Body Armor Core Plate Carrier. I have two of their level IV Stratis Enhanced plates (front and back) which makes this carrier very capable of protection. This is an expensive set up but you often get what you pay for in the world of body armor. Especially in regards to weight. Here is a link to Premier Body Armor's website that helps to support the channel: premierbodyarmor.com/magic Use code "MAGIC" to get 10% off of your order! The chest rig in this video is a Haley Strategic Partners & Onward Research TRMP CRX which is a very minimalist chest rig. I find it to be very comfortable and utilitarian for someone who is not likely to do anything extraordinary regarding the use of this type of equipment. (Like me) (I can't link to this one but a quick search should get you there)

[@11binfantryfollowmeus.army95]

@Jennys Swinger Party Channel Chest…..rig..😎

[@ahole5407]

I went with a plate carrier first years ago because it fit my mission set. Later when I expanded my capabilities to include things that did not require direct action a chest rig became necessary. As always, the mission dictates the gear.

[@TUKByV1]

I bought a load-bearing vest on sale 'cause I'm too broke to buy a PC. :-) We have a 10-month summer, so the hydration bladder was a big selling point to me.

[@MagicPrepper]

@SwingerPartyHostessJenny I would start with the chest rig.

[@MagicPrepper]

@@Huntoutdoors1 I hear you. Although that is what early alarm systems are for.

[@fredmyers485]

Both but plate carrier with plates first. There are no federal bills pending to ban chest rigs, body armor however is on the list of items to ban.

[@ahole5407]

☝️ very valid point

[@perrytheplatypus7403]

CQC/wilderness survival/urban preparedness instructor here. My recommendations for any prepper who is getting into supplemental gear consists of the list below. I consider the baseline of preparedness to be a person who already has a BOB/GHB/GOOD bag, defensive handgun with spare magazines, basic field knife, flashlight, and medical on person, including an IFAK/TQ. This also presumes that the person has a rifle and is beginning to integrate training into their routine, or is adding a rifle in the near future. This list bumps of the gear level on a lower budget and allows time to “level up” as budget allows. 1. Chest rig 2. NIJ-style cop soft armor (which can be purchased very cheaply and legally from secondhand resources after expiration date. Worn, but not “used”.) 3. “Battle” belt and accessories 4. Radio 5. Plate carrier 6. Rifle plates If one has a little bit of cash available, for $300-400, you can get a slick or low profile plate carrier and IIIA soft armor panels, sometimes a minimalist chest rig as well. It’s much easier and less daunting to start small and integrate one system at a time rather than dropping a grand on Gucci gear. Evaluate your needs and budget, buy and train according your skill level and limitations.

[@MagicPrepper]

Thanks for sharing that info. I appreciate the breakdown.

[@scaleworksRC]

Very good. I'm working on step 4 now.

[@unitedwestanddividedwefall3521]

I know I’m late. Great explanation btw. For a radio what do you recommend? From entry/budget to intermediate and high end? Thank you.

[@perrytheplatypus7403]

⁠@@unitedwestanddividedwefall3521much to the chagrin of the radio guys, a great place to start, especially if you are brand new to comms, is with a Baofeng, or my personal favorite on the low end, a Tidradio TD-H8. Both allow you to learn the basics of analog programming, with the TD-H8 brain able to use a cell phone and app for programming, which makes it a lot easier. It is also slightly more robust than a Baofeng, and offers a little more output power and a larger battery. Moving beyond that, you have Uaesu and Kenwood radios, most of which will require a computer-based software to programs. Beyond that, and much more difficult, are Motorola radios like the XPR series, which definitely require software, but they are distinctly more robust than lower end radios. For the beginner, a TD-H8 (Gen 2) is the way to go.

[@perrytheplatypus7403]

*being, *Yaesu. (Formatting issue on edit)

[@farmerboy_1129]

Remember gents, plates don't make you invincible. The proper use of cover, camouflage, and other concealment are what makes the difference. Rigs like the eagle RRV or crye AVS detachable rigs are a good in-between if you have to have both on a budget.

[@mahbuddykeith1124]

>Crye AVS >Budget Pick one

[@rico989]

Plates are good if the people you’re in a gunfight are capable of hitting them. If they’re up close and have a flinch thee goes your femoral artery.

[@rico989]

Plates are good if the people you’re in a gunfight are capable of hitting them. If they’re up close and have a flinch there goes your femoral artery.

[@steelpenny7056]

A slick plate carrier with chest rigs is a great option as well and having different chest rigs for different jobs is less expensive than more plate carriers. God Bless...

[@MagicPrepper]

Good point!

[@michaeldunwoody3629]

I like having Level III concealable vest with option of putting on a chest rig or plate carrier with LVL IV ICW over the top.

[@MagicPrepper]

Nothing wrong with some extra protection.

[@MrSwccguy]

Ahh double armor lmao

[@timunderbakke8756]

I would take the plate carrier ten of ten times. In my area it’s possible to gray man with the carrier in winter…. As long as there are no pouches in the front. The chest rig is only good for carrying stuff. And if I am going to be looking overt I am going to have at least some protection just in case. I agree that it’s generally better to be low profile, but neither choice is super low profile.

[@tropicaloasis8203]

Carrier first, then chest rig. You want armor. Carriers cost over 100, while you can find a nice chest rig for 100 or under. I say run the expense first for protection, then get the rig.

[@PrivateerCptMills89]

Until you’ve had to hump it long range with plates on, you won’t know how bad it can suck. Chest rigs are gold but you don’t get any assurance at all when you know there are dudes with Ak’s and Rpk’s looking to shoot you. There’s definitely pros and cons to both.

[@PrivateerCptMills89]

@@brutherbubbabluegrassbumps1984 then what’s the point of having a “plate carrier”? Lol

[@EuropaChronicles]

IMO, the best chest rigs for an SHTF kit are the ones that integrate with a chest rig. Due to the lack of time most civilians have for training, it’s more efficient to have a common gear configuration. Also, in SHTF, space is at a premium if you have to transport your gear so carrying a separate chest rig & a fully kitted out plate carrier starts taking up too much room in your gear bag. Just my $0.02…

[@chasedecroo4600]

I started out with a plate carrier and your assumptions of its best uses are spot on but I’d rather have a harness & belt system over the chest rig. You have more scalability/adaptability with the latter system and at a very cheap price if you went with milsurp gear like an ALICE H-harness or something similar. As you explained, Plate carriers make the most sense in static defense or in building clearing type situations. You didn’t bring up head armor but I think a correctly balanced bump helmet versus an armored helmet makes sense for all the same reasons for when to pair it with a chest harness.

[@MagicPrepper]

I am likely getting a bump helmet over a ballistic helmet for that reason! Thanks for the insight.

[@leofightsback6514]

I wear 2 concealable Safe Life multi threat 3A vest with 1 level 4 rifle plate under the first vest. It's relatively light. I had to wear it for 3 days straight one time in North Nigeria. I was able to move fast and it was quite comfortable. Maybe I should have had a level 4 rifle plate in my back but I wasn't particularly worried about getting shot in the back. Just something else for y'all to consider.

[@NCrdwlf]

When society breaks down avoiding a fire fight is pretty important. I believe in both but once you put all that kit on and put a rifle in your hand you are a combatant and will be treated like one by anyone on “ the other side “

[@TheREALLibertyOrDeath]

Yeah, grey man would be the prudent approach

[@tropicaloasis8203]

Stay strapped or get clapped

[@Michiganbreadboyz_bt8919]

Once u have a rifle in your hand you will be a combatant, plate carrier or not.

[@yardbirds8904]

“I don’t need no stink’n body armor.”…famous last words…Interceptor base vest carrier 7.62mm APM2 Ceradyne ESAPI/Cut Ceramic Lg 13x10 stand alone plates…are your ticket to ride..imo..and I only need them to work once for them to be worth it…good vid…

[@justsomeguy478]

Always can get the light weight soft armor as a alternative to an actual "plate carrier". Doesn't provide the same protection, but better than nothing.

[@mcallahan9060]

I use a plate carrier with level IIIA soft plates(not-rifle) it's reasonably light weight but offers basic pistol protection. I consider it a compromise between the two.

[@TurkFPS]

Or just think about it, you could get a surplus Tactial assault pannel (aka battle proven chest rig) from ebay for 40 bucks, outfit your entire MAG and spend the rest on food storage and ammo. Just a thought.

[@yardbirds8904]

Checked out the web site for the carrier and yes, for $1,800 hunard bucks you get solid gold plates!..and their guarantee is top notch, if a bullet penetrates and strikes you in the heart, you get your money back!…

[@tacocat9472]

Good points, another low profile option are the Hill People Gear chest packs. IMO more practical for edc and you look more like a fly fisherman or bird watcher than a tacticool dude.

[@mrjinglesdice6745]

In a home defense situation I'm going for my pew pew, putting on a plate carrier takes way too much time

[@FUNSH1N3]

Voodoo tactical offers a good chest rig that accommodates a 10x12 steel plate. Front protection less weight and cost

[@ahole5407]

Leave it in the sun for a week and run 5 miles with it FULLY loaded and SOAKING wet and see if don't fall apart on you.

[@UncleDon226]

My preference is both. Have some body armor that is completely slick. And I mean body armor, not just a plate carrier. Get a surplus vest with level 3A soft inserts, then toss in some plates for added protection. Then have a chest rig to go over the top or to run standalone when needed.

[@justjon9180]

I have a chest rig load out for every arm I have, loaded with extra mags, a Lula, mini first aid kit, etc. I built these out mainly for friends and fam. My personal grab and go though, is a Pat 83 battle jacket. Not really interested in a plate carrier because my plan doesn't include actively looking for firefights, or surviving that many if I happen to do so.

[@patriot110]

Hey magic your awesome dude thanks for still prepping. Everyother prepping channel I used to watch this time last year is news or the world's gonna be nuke to oblivion. So thanks for keeping it real dude

[@MagicPrepper]

Trying to provide value when I can. I still need to touch on the existential threats from time to time but, there isn't much we can do about them besides prepare more.

[@patriot110]

@@MagicPrepper well said sir.

[@nphare]

The plate carrier systems from RTS Tactical are about 1/3 the price and excellent quality. I can highly recommend them. Alternatively, TRex Arms makes a low vis plate carrier that solves some of those scenarios well too.

[@bernardbarr2354]

I notice most here think a carrier is too slow to Don in a home invasion scenario. I'm surprised. I can imagine a time when that may not work but if you are not hardening defenses to slow bad guys down....probably not doing home defense right. The last place you want them to be is in your house. Got to figure out a way to slow the invasion so a defense can be made. Doesn't always work. Gotta try. My defenses fell apart once and guy got in the house. Boy what an eye opener.

[@404Matt]

Slick plate carrier, then duty belt, then chest rig over your carrier.

[@MrLandphill]

somehow I missed this video, great info, thanks for all the great videos

[@cablrus1885]

Very good info and my questions answered

[@MagicPrepper]

Glad it was helpful!

[@snakebite210]

Well articulated points sir. Well done

[@willienealson3542]

when in doubt, copy the pros. Someday plates might be illegal, so it might be wise to buy that first.

[@Joey-ne1zi]

Don't know if you run a helmet or not but a video like this with bump helmet vs. ballistic helmet would be eye opening for people....IMO!

[@MagicPrepper]

I would need both for awhile to get those thoughts together but I am leaning towards bump helmet personally.

[@wastelandgentleman]

I like the concept and believe in the IOTV and FLC system where if armor goes down or isn’t need take it off and slip back on your fighting load because placement for everything is the same since it is the same gear no need for two separate pouches to swap between when it’s the same mags

[@MrSwccguy]

No one runs gear over slick carriers, that's fallen out of place due to placards and slicks carriers

[@twinarrowssurvival.2.065]

So when I lived in the city in an apartment complex my go-to was a plate carrier with a AR-15 with a 10 and a half inch barrel when I vacated the city and moved to the country I switched to a chest rig with an AR with a 16 inch barrel a lot less weight and I'm not so much worried about getting shot at on a hundred acres as I was in a huge apartment complex with a bunch of people going crazy because now we have no power and food if shtf occurred great videos brother keep them coming please...

[@MagicPrepper]

Environment definitely matters!

[@twinarrowssurvival.2.065]

@@MagicPrepper Yes sir

[@cheezychungus967]

My question is why do so many people run plate carriers and not get the side plates? That seems really silly to me. If you're going to get a plate carrier you might as well get as much protection as you can.

[@Kypreparedness]

I primarily train with a chest rig, but do have a PC. Not a whole lot of threats in my area, so I see myself using one of my CRs and a battle belt 98% of the time. I am however looking into lowviz slick carriers and have the option to throw a chest rig over that.

[@dwaynerobinson4575]

👏🏿👏🏿 Great video!! The knowledge u shared was valuable to a person without training. This video will help them with their thought process of other prepping situations!👏🏿👏🏿

[@jopiaspieder1184]

Good video thank you for taking the time doing this one

[@r.h.9338]

Great vid. Good info and things to consider. Thanks and keep up the great work.

[@MagicPrepper]

Hey thanks for the kind words.

[@mothgomery]

chest rig + concealable vest, best of both worlds :]

[@salsanchez2114]

Thanks for the informative video. I like my backpack which is comfortable and can hold 3 liters of H20 in the bladder as well as plenty of clothing, first aid, ammo, binos, and energy foods. A chest rig will not carry all of this stuff which is necessary in the mountains. If there's a firefight and I do not have good cover, then neither a chest rig or a plate carrier is going to do me much good. At close range I'm likely to get hit outside the plate carrier and at longer range any decent marksman can target away from the armor -- Military Channel has a good video about this. For home invasion or protecting my property, in my situation, the best protection is speed, good cover, and reasonable marksmanship. Additionally, in my rural area I would want to try to have any engagements at after dark so that I can use my knowledge of the terrain along with night vision + thermal optics to win. Optimally, I would look to engage around two or three am when the foes are either asleep or groggy/tired, and from November until May, probably very cold. I live at about 10,500'. In that scenario a plate carrier with armor might just be a lot of extra weight I would not want as I rapidly shot, moved, shot, moved, etc. etc. During the day I plan to make myself as scarce as possible. If I should get caught in my home, then I have cover set up that will stop rifle rounds. Thanks again for your interesting videos.

[@optimumperformance]

Get the plate carrier first. You can run without plates if you need more lightweight. You can strip down very low profile.

[@badtchad4935]

I have both but in my opinion a battle belt combined with a plate carrier is the ideal setup.

[@blakeanderson118]

Same, but the weight adds up

[@badtchad4935]

@@blakeanderson118 yes I agree. If I knew I was going to be on the move I would probably not wear the plate carrier.

[@blakeanderson118]

@@badtchad4935 same, but its good to have both. Sometimes one size doesn't fit all

[@badtchad4935]

@@blakeanderson118 yes, something for every situation 👍🏻

[@PreparedOverlander]

When doing a patrol or recon, you should probably think more about the likelihood of coming into contact than choosing one or the other for comfort. Comfort should never be a deciding factor to what you wear for doing specific things especially when you leave the relative safety of home and enter the two way range. The next thing to think about is do you want to have the ability to fight your way out of a situation, or are you going to blend in to gather information.

[@billywalker9223]

I cut my plates from 1/2" AR 550 sheets at work. They weigh about 34 pounds. Not comfortable, but effective, and I'm used to suffering. Got my SF chest rig ready too, but with three more magazines. Both choices are heavy for a small guy.

[@willienealson3542]

@@brutherbubbabluegrassbumps1984 i was about to say that. i have AR 550 wrapping in duct tape for backup or guest armor.

[@bulleit9459]

Dude 34 pounds?! Use that steel as armor for your vehicle and get yourself some real rifle plates. Just the weight of those is going to kill your mobility. And being able to move in a gunfight is perhaps the most important aspect second to having a gun.

[@billywalker9223]

@@bulleit9459 I just wanted to try them out. I have other plates.

[@MrSwccguy]

Yeah you're good as dead lol

[@billywalker9223]

@@MrSwccguy Everyone is going to die at some point. Big deal. Hopefully, I'll add to my kill count of pos before I go.

[@oaklavegas8779]

The variety and amount of helpful content you put out is crazy! Thank you

[@MagicPrepper]

I am trying my best anyway. Thanks for the kind words!

[@fiestaresistance4484]

I usually recommend the current government issue chest rig, the TAPS (tactical assault panel system). It’s not an awesome piece of kit, but it has some serious value for the cost and it’s a decent place to start. They are available from multiple surplus stores in new/unissued condition for less than $50. They have room for 8 STANAG magazines, plus two GP/radio pouches and three small map/admin pouches on the back. Plus, they have molle on the front for attaching any other crap you want. Lastly, they have 1” quick release buckles on the top and sides to enable it to attach to your plate carrier. Again, not sexy, but more than good enough for most of us.

[@johnnyrehder2153]

Plate carrier with LVL 4 ceramic plates like on the right is what I have with 3 - 30rd mag holders, 2 - 9mm mag holders, and a couple molle pouches for misc stuff.

[@MagicPrepper]

The more you slim it down, the better you'll like it. I used to strap a ton of stuff to mine. Make sure you check out those Matbock Strap Claws. They are awesome for wearing a backpack with your plate carrier.

[@IAmGrimmX]

In gray man mode soft armor over either. Most contacts will be pistol caliber.

[@tropicaloasis8203]

I cut my pouches off my plate carrier, it was old military issue, and ever since that, im able to wear it underneat my shirts, throw on a hoodie and its not visible at all. I run level IV front and back, level III on the sides.

[@kroninn]

I found a KDH full protection low profile vest with soft inserts/plates on Ebay for a great price. I then threw in a couple level IIIa plates. It feels like a bullet proof hug.

[@MagicPrepper]

Those are great for concealability for sure.

[@DMF716]

I have a full set of KDH ARMOR. ONLY PIECE I CANT FIND RECENTLY, IS THE KIDNEY UPPER BUTT ARMOR ON THE BACK .

[@protectpersevere2030]

Good points. I would like to add alice frames work pretty well with armor if you absolutely had to move a decent amount of stuff while staying armored. Hey MP could you do a vid on cold weather glove systems as i’m trying to layer my gloves while still being able to manipulate a rifle but i’m struggling

[@ahole5407]

+1 on the alice frames. I would say that you need to look into football hand-warmers. Their isn't really a good option when it comes to cold weather gloves. Best I've done before moving to what I just mentioned was wearing nitrile as a base layer which works great for wind and cold but your hands will sweat bad.

[@protectpersevere2030]

@@ahole5407 Yah hand warmers are a God send but are a finite resource. I have no problem using liners,reg gloves, shell gloves until it’s long durations holding a metal firearm without the ability to put hands in pockets

[@MagicPrepper]

Let me just say this, Heavy Winter Gloves: Glock No, P320 Yes.... I was surprised too.

[@bradleylehman7009]

Look at Seirus gloves and liners. They have a liner that is really thin, utilizing mylar (space blanket) strips that works well with shooting/tactical gloves and doesn't interfere with dexterity. Good for about 20°F + in my experience.

[@protectpersevere2030]

@@bradleylehman7009 will do thanks!

[@scaleworksRC]

Good presentation. Liked and subbed. 👍

[@jeremiah7855]

Plate carrier first you can carry ammo and etc on plate carrier.... of course your gonna try to avoid a fire fight but you have it if you need it your not gonna have time to put a plate carrier or chest rig on in a home defense situation

[@johnd9267]

Always great hear reviews and information but we’ve seen nothing about your Truck which is a key item to getting out. Have you done any Upgrades Lift Tires Lights Recovery Gear

[@Paranoidtimes]

Rifleman kit Molle II ACU for me...

[@Paladinbr]

I bought 2 plate carriers. Technically 3. One for rifle loadout, one for shotgun. The third to load down with weights for exercise and to get used to wearing the darn thing. I'll worry about the chest rig later. Budget is always an issue, and I figure if I need the ammo I'll probably need the armor too. Looking forward to hearing about when I'll need one

[@omardevonlittle3817]

huge waste of funds

[@MagicPrepper]

Having all of that gives you a lot of options. Definitely check out chest rigs when you get a chance. Even for just chill days at the range, they are nice to have.

[@MagicPrepper]

@@omardevonlittle3817 That's all dependent on perspective.

[@420BLUNTLEY]

You got too much money.

[@Paladinbr]

@@omardevonlittle3817 I got basic models. I don't need jump certified gear.

[@IAmGrimmX]

I run a battle belt with 2 pistol mags, holster, and 5 extra 12 Guage shells. Running my handgun and shotgun in the house.

[@freedomseeds8194]

Looking at the average American, people need to worry about their fitness more than any piece of equipment.

[@iamdom_720]

I personally got a plate carrier first for airsoft but I cashed out on a jpc with the idea that I could convert it to an actual minimalist rig if I stopped playing (which I have because of work and school) I recently picked up an spc to run as my standard combat rig due to the ability to keep weight balanced on the cummerbund. I'm also likely to have to go through the city albeit small yet surrounded by other cities if I have to bug out.

[@Kriss_L]

Either one will allow you to carry ammo and stuff. But only armor will stop bullets. You decide which is for you.

[@GodGunsGills]

Mostly all home defense will be very very fast, with time to only get the gun and blam... home defense in shft will be different though

[@JDJD-hg9hu]

Not saying it’s going to happen but… If anything on this list is going to be outlawed it would be the plates. Pick up one or two first. Like stashing food chip away at it. Stay happy healthy and fluid

[@MagicPrepper]

Good point!

[@greybone777]

They are making it against the law in New York.

[@williammccaslin8527]

Most urban dwellers only need a chest rig, with an IFAK an TQ's attached, snacks an water an comm's, an your gtg. Unless its a red dawn scenario, an let's pray it never comes to that here in the USA. Thx for the vid

[@alistair8915]

Chest rig. Be light, fast, quiet, avoid the fight, engage to disengage from distance, still carry your Skittles.

[@MagicPrepper]

This TRMP CRX has a dedicated skittles pouch.

[@badas45]

Buy them both at the same time

[@MichaelR58]

Good points , thanks for sharing , God bless !

[@AsymmetricalPreparedness]

My video response will post tomorrow.

[@MT_Pant_Suit]

Great video my dude

[@MagicPrepper]

Much appreciated.

[@TexasSurplusPro]

Lol I literally filmed a video on this topic yesterday, haven’t posted it yet... Good stuff!

[@MagicPrepper]

Welcome to the hive!

[@TexasSurplusPro]

@@MagicPrepper it’s definitely real.

[@MrTenhighguy]

Granted I own both I'm all about a good quality American made chest rig. The way I see it if your the one getting shot you failed somewhere along the line. I rather have the speed and cardio advantage of a chest rig than lugging around 22 lbs of steel in a plate carrier (assuming your not big money and got the fancy plates). If it's bad enough I need either then I'm pretty confident I'm not the first guy getting taken out.

[@thefrogking481]

Lots of dead guys simply got shot, it had nothing to do with what they did right or wrong.

[@MB-jg4tr]

Ceramic Polyethylene level IV plates and minimalist carrier ran me $265 USD all together and it weighs 12lbs. Things have changed.

[@BoredAmerican]

A $250 condor chest rig set up that includes radio medical and mags is my choice if I did it again

[@BangTheRocksTogether]

How many wheelbarrows can you buy for the price of one of either of these? What about shovels? Hammers? Kegs of nails? Survival is about firewood, and building maintenance.

[@jsog6]

Perimeter patrol suggests a group base. Am individual has no business patrolling his domain. Static defense with known distances for a family. If bugging out in a vehicle, the plate carrier’s extra weight is OK. It’s really about defining your protective system and where you live: rural versus city requires different approaches. The second critical action is to train with what you have. Save the money and invest in quality training, including medical.

[@johnd9267]

They do Make Chest Rigs that allow you to run just a Front Plate

[@itsamk18-ish]

I got my plates and carrier first. When i got it there were talks of them wanting to make armor especially rifle rated armor illegal plus i knew i could configure it as a chest rig if needed. I picked up a chest rig a few months after and it’s set up basically identical to my plate carrier.

[@375Cheytac]

Another thing to consider: our medical system is already failing in a massive way with emergency response/treatment to basic emergencies. In the event of SHTF this will only get much much worse as patient load increases and staff burn out. So, with that in mind, avoiding needing medical attention is going to be beyond important. And not just from bullet holes but also things like sprained ankles and whatnot that could be made worse by heavy armor. Food for thought

[@MagicPrepper]

All good points thanks for sharing!

[@ahole5407]

I wonder what our colonial army did without hospitals operating rooms ERs and modern medical equipment 🤔 even field hospitals from the world wars without electricity and running water. Do you think the pioneers headed out west only to turn around when someone got a sprained ankle? Your comment only reinforces my believe that now more than ever people are too dependent on modern society.

[@375Cheytac]

@@ahole5407 If you have an entire army, horse drawn carriages, and independent farming infrastructure to keep going, then yeah. Valid point. For those of us who would be in extremely small teams of 3-5 people with limited infrastructure, well, that doesn’t really apply and the medical condition of every team member is extremely important. This also doesn’t take into consideration the modern technology that exists now a days. Sprain your ankle while traveling across farm land to a radio tower? Better hope the farmer doesn’t have thermal imaging systems because you aren’t going to be able to just set up camp in the bush to heal anymore.

[@ahole5407]

@@375Cheytac so the farmer is now the enemy that wants to kill you? Fact is that too many people only are about themselves and have lost the unifying principles. Perhaps it's that way because the true enemy knows that we are weaker if we are divided and too busy fighting each other rather than keeping the focus on an objective. We are the army. We are the infrastructure. And whatever we don't have and need to achieve victory we will acquire. Either by alliance or by force because there is only two options, you are with us or you are against us. JOIN OR DIE.

[@Fromdahoodtothewoods]

I'm in your situation (regular person) in an urban environment I went the concealed plate carrier route and got a tactical vest for over everything else to carry...chest rigs I use for hiking and hunting

[@MagicPrepper]

Good break down. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on it.

[@txduck]

Without the training that 99% of civilians, including me, would need to keep fighting after taking a round to armor makes the question moot. What I’m saying is a round to the chest is gonna take your air away at a minimum. Without significant training on how to fight through that you’re more than likely gonna get shot fatally before you recover enough to fight.

[@chupacabra304]

What military trains you to be shot in the chest with armor??

[@txduck]

@@chupacabra304 you’re proving my point and don’t even realize it. Military operates on teams, not as individuals. Teams take care of each other and when 1 member is hit they will be covered and pulled to safety as they recover or are added for more severe injury. If you and I were in a gun fight and I get the drop on you my first 2 rounds are going in your plate carrier, my follow up shots are going in your skull while you TRY and catch your breath. It doesn’t take a big brain to understand what I’m saying but you do you

[@chupacabra304]

New york neo-nazi that shot up the grocery store had no formal training , ceramic armor absorbs a lot of the energy he took 3 shots to the chest and killed the security guard. So… we can have our own opines and both be partially correct as well Edit : Idk why my youtube isn’t showing your comment but I stand by my point. Not denying one will be winded but a exercised individual taking shots to armor can react to a threat as evidenced by a couple videos i’ve seen. IDEALLY, don’t get shot in the first place but barring that… it’s good to have 3+ ceramic between you and the incoming. Second point : Everyone should have access to armor. Not just police or military. That enforces a dynamic where citizens are at a disadvantage. A dynamic which is conducive to authoritarianism .

[@chupacabra304]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/bZeoh3igfM5le7M

[@mynameisnobody5462]

Home defense, one of the armored shields . Grab it and set it up in a hallway and slip your rifle through the slot , you would be invincible. Lol

[@ahole5407]

That's what the fiddy is for. 🤣

[@MagicPrepper]

God I hate those guys in MW2

[@TUKByV1]

What's the price tag on those ballistic shields?

[@timschneider5850]

@@TUKByV1 1k or so for a good one

[@chrism7563]

You can sit and debate this question until your head hurt, because there are so many variables to consider. One thing I can say with certainty, because I made this mistake myself, is don’t put all your faith in the overpriced ‘Gucci’ gunfighter gear. HSGI makes excellent quality stuff, bought some Tocos myself, but when it comes down to it, real world, I’ll take canvas covered mag pouches every time. Opinions and all that... Bottom line is that these high end tactical gear manufacturers are are in the business to make money and feeding a cultural niche. Stick with what’s been battle proven and stood the test of time. It doesn’t have to to cost an arm and a leg to get quality, practical equipment; you want to spend that kind of money just go to the grocery store.

[@nonsquid]

How about a flak jacket with a soft armor plate in the front? It is much lighter than plate, it covers the sides and back with limited protection and you can still wear a back pack without the plate jamming into your kidneys.

[@MagicPrepper]

Also a good option

[@JAMEZANDRADE]

Shoutout from southern Mexico, I will always go with plate carrier and if it gets to heavy for whatever reason, take the back plate out...just watch your ass lol.

[@MagicPrepper]

Well that is an option!

[@skepticalhippo6376]

Plate carriers only work if the person shooting at you is good enough to hit the plates.

[@MagicPrepper]

This is a silly argument similar to the "I don't use a weapon light because then they'll shoot at the light" statement. It's about odds and vital protection.

[@bulleit9459]

That’s definitely the dumbest thing ive read all day. People arent shooting at your plates, they are trying to kill you by shooting at the easiest target they can hit, which would be your torso/chest area because its the biggest target on the human body.

[@skepticalhippo6376]

@@bulleit9459 and keep your fingers crossed that they hit where they’re aiming 🤞🏼

[@bulleit9459]

@@skepticalhippo6376 hope isnt a plan. I do what i do to skew the outcomes in my favor. Be in shape, move and shoot faster and more accurate than any potential enemies.

[@SgtRudySmith31bRet]

Personally I'd get the plate carrier and then save up for plates. But I'm a poor.

[@MrWilliewonka69]

I feel most people jump right in to a plate carrier. Will I say they are wrong no(I did this as well). I bought my carrier to train in I am now building a chest rig for a truck get home setup(most likly will leave my house more then my plates)

[@toddhurd6491]

Very few folks leave the house expecting to be in a shooting. The bad guys have a tendency to not send you a text prior to trying to kill you.

[@harukiri2738]

Man I gotta say some of the assumptions from this video are not what I would have thought. If I hear something bump in the night around my home I want to be able to get the jump on them as quick as possible, so a chest rig would probably be better if you were going to pick either one at all. Most people are just going to use their handgun with white light. As far as doing reconnaissance yes a chest rig is most likely going to suite you well, but to assume recon guys are less likely to be in the thick of it is also wrong. Being at the front actually observing enemy movement and reporting back makes them one of the most likely groups to see some form of combat. Ask marine recon guys or MAC V SOG guys.

[@OldMusicFan83]

LBE first.

[@ahole5407]

All these comments about "avoid the fight" and "run away". Where would we be today if the men of Lexington Green at dawn on April 19, 1775 did not engage when some 700 British troops arrived to seize weapons and came upon 77 militiamen gathered on the town green. A British major yelled, “Throw down your arms! Ye villains, ye rebels.” And Captain John Parker said: “Stand your ground! Don't fire unless fired upon! But, if they want to have a war, let it begin here.”

[@SigmundPimpulopis]

Thank you

[@marytica123]

SUGGESTION - DON'T BUY BODY ARMOR AT ALL. Your $500+ would be better spent on FOOD & WATER /WATER FILTRATION. Remember, if you REALLY get into a shootout, the other guy may just shoot you in the legs or arms or head (or groin). This will be a DEATH SENTENCE in SHTF, when medical help will be "slim or none".

[@MagicPrepper]

"better spent" is extremely subjective.

[@ldn0224]

Plate carrier is great for fortress defense. I bought a set and really hate it. Too slow and heavy and really expensive. SF guys dump them immediately and I found out why. Bought a soft one of same level and way more comfortable and better body cover. I bought a pistol chest rig to go the soft rig and way more comfortable and lighter. Do not buy plates.

[@eagleclaw6]

I went with a plate carrier and will just drop the plates to save weight. Just seems like the best bang for the buck

[@ahole5407]

That's ignorance. You need to fill the platebags with something as it will flop all over the place if you don't. And for your comment about price, chest rigs are much cheaper than a carrier. My mayflower gen iv was $250 and my LBT 6094B was $400. Add $1,800 to that for the full front back and side soft and hard armor. "Quality" and construction comes from known brands AND models. The new "Gucci" kit they peddle on instafag are no better than the cheap Chinese airsoft crap and will fall apart just as fast, no matter what the brand. Early to mid GWOT SOF gear is proven and were made back when vendors made gear that was bomb proof. Today's newer gear that is being fielded is lightweight and has planned obsolescence made into the design. That way vendors can make more sales to the gov. Companies that do not sell to the government should be avoided because they do not make products with tge same amount of QC. When SHTF you don't want your rig failing in the middle of a gun fight yard selling your mags and gear all over the ground. That would be a bad day.

[@eagleclaw6]

@@ahole5407 wrong. Fitting name for you

[@ahole5407]

@@eagleclaw6 my name is fitting because I am honest. Your ignorance is only shadowed by you ineptitude to provide conjecture.

[@RockyMountainAO]

Plate carrier can be a chest rig but a chest rig cannot be a plate carrier 🤷

[@willienealson3542]

also don't hang pouches on your back, incase you want to drive.

[@WilliamAshleyOnline]

I have found that one thing I have looked for and gotten in my "plate carriers" *cough* airsoft vests *cough* is that there is molle webbing on thepback, this allows me to use the ballistic vest as a backback carrier, basically I can just weave in a rucksack or daypack onto the back of the ballistic vest, and this actually works as fairly good weight distribution method even in addition to shoulder straps backpack straps and it distrubes weight all along the torso rather than just along the backpack straps, and rest hippoints and with the backpack belt common in most military style backpacks it also can cover the stomach area, if your packbelt has insert areas or molle webbing for insert backs it also provides more overall protection from trauma impacts but Ihavnt been shot so.. All that said you can also rig in attachments such as chest rigging into a backpack, imo a frontpack smersh style setup can be ehanced again if it has molle webbing as it allows you to hang pouches or daypacks. With molle webbing int he back you can more or less rig in your chest rig to a daypack or camelpack , and a military style camelpack will also have webbing for a sustenance pouch or other attachment. KISS methodolgy may be there. I dunno I generally only carry body armor plates or kevlar inserts if there is a known active shooter in the area I am travelling, or potential hostiles that are armed, or training as the extra weight is good for fitness. What I found though is that my prefered fun travel loadout now is using a ballistic vest with a backpack weaved onto the back of it. If you actually plan on being shot though rathter than a hail marry police or military gear seems to make sense. For the hobby prepper I find that my nylon ballistic vests can sustain weight but cheaper vets will rip over time. Even using them as backpack vests the vests have withstood lots of use. If you arn't using the vests for ballistic protection those same pouches can be used to store equipment as they may have zippers or velcrow pockets that are actually quite sizeable but a little thin. Things like powdered foods or dried food, jellies, thin water bladders, flashlights multitools can all fit in the ballistic pouches incise the ballistic vest, and if things get harry one with mollewebbing you can attach pouches for your gear and insert the ballistic inserts. The trick is that getting the right size inserts for the specifc vest you have. just unfathomable to be in a situation where ballistic protection is needed in the field unless you are part of an organized milita engaging hostiles. Again WROL is a scary time, eventually i guess you'd need to leave your home but its mind boggling to be planning for the wild west unless you are part of a paramilitary or military organization. Yeah so many thoughts but this is already a novela.

[@QueenLiliTheRed]

Berserkers only needed bear skin and history actually remembered them

[@ATinyPlace]

In my opinion in the context of home defense (from what I understand), I believe that neither are quite viable because you are responding to a threat. You won't have the time to put on gear like a chest rig, plate carrier, battle belts etc. I think that this equipment is still essential, specially in the social climate we currently inhabit, but in this context does not really work. That being said, you painted a particular scenario in shtf where you are pulling security on your property, similar to the routine that Bear from refuge medical does each morning when homesteading. In this context the plate carrier makes a lot of sense to me. In the case of long distance rucking, I agree, a chest rig would be ideal.

[@MagicPrepper]

I also failed to mention that home defense during SHTF might look different than home defense during normal times. It is also dependent on your particular situation or property set up. If I am alerted that a trespasser has entered my driveway, they have to travel a quarter mile before reaching my home. That might be enough time to put something on if need be.

[@ATinyPlace]

@@MagicPrepper Agreed.

[@HvacGuy76]

During a home invasion, would you really have time to put either one one?