Self Security

The best shot you’ll ever take is the one where shooting your weapon won’t be needed. Violence can happen in an instant, however. Owning a Glock 43, or any other type of firearm, is a matter of personal choice and can keep you and loved ones safe.

The top Glock 43 holsters can ensure that your weapon will be ready when you need it. Inside-the-waistband holsters are good products to own, for they attach to the inside of your pants. This means that they can let you conceal your pistol to draw it out in a blink of an eye.

They are perfect for a vast majority of people, for being able to use your Glock at any moment can mean the difference between life and death.

The top inside-the-waistband holsters will last a long time, let you draw your weapon quickly and keep your pistol from accidently discharging. This guide will cover the top ten models that excel in these points to let you pick the best one for your needs.

A bad holster won’t help you in a crisis, but a good model can let you put an end to dangerous situations.

Complete list of 10 Best IWB (Concealed Carry) Holsters for Glock 43 in 2019:

1. Concealment Carrier IWB Glock 43 Holster with Magazine Holster

These Glock and magazine holsters will let you shoot fast and have the ammunition to handle a crisis. You will never know when extra bullets may become useful, and this affordable package from Concealment Carrier provides the firepower to keep you prepared.

The magazine holster would be irrelevant if the gun holster didn’t work well, however. This isn’t the case, for the Glock 43 IWB holster performs extremely well.

It has a snug fit on the waist, secures a sidearm well to allow for quick draws and is small enough to be concealed easily.

What Customers Are Saying

Some reviewers found this model to be the best concealed holster for the Glock 43. Customization is very important in holsters: Optimal retention levels can differ for every individual. Concealment Carrier’s holster can be adjusted to let anyone get the right draw.

Customers also loved the spare magazine holder. The fact that it can be worn outside of the waistband means that it can be carried in almost any situation.

The high-quality build of these two products left many buyers satisfied that they found a holster that can be used on a daily basis.

Summary

This holster will help almost anybody carry their Glock 43 discreetly and safety: Draw speeds can be improved by using this holster and customizing it to your liking.

2. ComfortTac Ultimate Belly Band Holster for Concealed Carry Black

You don’t need to wear a belt in order to use this holster. It straps around your upper body and offers you the ability to place your sidearm almost anywhere.

Additionally, this holster comes with a spare magazine holster and has a patch that you can hold useful tools. It is a great purchase to make for anyone trying to carry a sidearm and needs to stay comfortable and able to draw their weapon quickly.

What Customers Are Saying

Reviewers praised how this holster was able to be used for people who couldn’t benefit from traditional IWB models. The holster wraps around your waist, and many customers felt that it was comfortable.

It could be used while exercising, and it can be taken to work and be adjusted for the times you need to sit down.

Summary

This holster is very comfortable to wear and lets you carry a sidearm securely. You can also carry your weapon effectively with almost any outfit.

3. CrossBreed Holsters MiniTuck IWB Concealed Carry Holster

Individuals may shop around for holsters after having their device malfunction or fail. Fortunately, Crossbreed’s model looks promising by being built out of strong materials to keep it working in the long term.

After breaking in this holster, you will find a device that can be greatly customized to meet your drawing preferences.

What Customers Are Saying

Customers loved this product for its usefulness. They found that the holster was able to provide great retention and keep their firearm secured. This is extremely important for a holster to do, so this product is recommended for its safety.

They found the price to be a little high, however. But they agreed that it is a good investment to make.

Summary

When looking for the best carry holster for Glock 43, it is crucial to obtain a model that offers comfort and fast draw times. Crossbreed’s holster offers these benefits by being designed only for the Glock – you will find an excellent product with this purchase.

4. CYA Supply Co. IWB Holster

This is a solid holster that offers great features to achieve a nice draw time. The ability to customize retention is welcome, and its sturdy belt design is assuring to have when carrying it in public.

This holster is also affordable, so it is a good product to buy as a first holster if you will be shooting with the Glock 43.

What Customers Are Saying

This iwb holster for glock 43 has received recommendations for its deep adjustability. This unit can be customized to create a retention level that is perfect for various needs, for an ideal tension can cut draw speeds drastically.

Customers also liked the fact that the model can be easily removed from a belt. When changing it out every day, it is very convenient to not have to struggle.

Summary

This holster could be amazing for some people. Its sweat guard could pose a challenge to other individuals, however. If the sweat guard doesn’t interfere with drawing the firearm, then this holster is a good buy.

5. Concealed Carrier Universal IWB Holster

It is important that a holster may be worn while performing physical activities. If you ever need to run while carrying your holster, you don’t want your firearm going off.

This holster excels in this point of keeping your sidearm secure, and it features an additional thumb break system to ensure that your weapon is only used when you want it to fire.

What Customers Are Saying

Some customers felt conflicted about this product. While the holster is advertised as being universal, not all guns fit well in it. In fact, some guns got caught and were unable to be drawn out safety.

However, the manufacture’s instructions state that cutting out stitching inside holster might be necessary to carry bigger sidearms. The customers with compact sidearms were impressed with the model in performing well despite not costing a lot of money.

Summary

With this model, some larger pistols can be difficult to draw quickly. Therefore, this is a good purchase to make for smaller sidearms or the Glock 43.

6. Concealment Express: IWB KYDEX Gun Holster

This could be considered to be the best concealed carry holster for glock 43. This model allows you to put some attachments on your Glock to be very prepared in an emergency.

The slim design and strong retention of the holster makes it a perfect choice for those looking to carry their sidearm discreetly.

What Customers Are Saying

Some customers expressed concern over being able to wear it in the appendix position, while others found that this position was perfect for their firearm. However, many reviews pointed out that a hip carry works well with this holster.

The audible clicking design was also found to be useful to know that the gun was stored properly.

Summary

This is a perfect holster for achieving an ideal retention level. If certain retention levels are important for you to have, looking more into this holster is recommended.

7. Blade-Tech Klipt Holster

As an affordable holster, this unit might not receive the attention that it deserves. It is designed not for competition against the most expensive models on the market but to deliver a product that can assist a large amount of people.

Most individuals won’t need all of the features that a high-end holster offers. Therefore, Blade-Tech’s model is a perfect choice for newcomers in the field to get acquainted with IWB carrying.

What Customers Are Saying

Customers loved that this holster was priced affordably. It does everything that a decent holster should: keep a firearm secured until it’s time to use it. Some reviewers found that they would welcome more features on this model, however.

They would have wanted an adjustable retention system, louder clicking alerts when securing their firearm and a more comfortable design. Yet many were happy with their purchase.

Summary

This discreet holster can be perfect for someone looking to conceal their firearm. It can be a bad fit for certain body types, but most people will find this model to be comfortable, durable, and extremely compact to carry a Glock without bringing undue attention.

8. Alien Gear holsters Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster

This popular holster should be looked into if you have trouble finding a model that is pleasant to wear all day. It is uniquely designed to have fabric pressing against your skin to make IWB carrying as easy as possible.

This holster is also extremely customizable to give it an amazing value for its price.

What Customers Are Saying

This holster received fantastic reviews for being extremely comfortable and form fitting. One customer gave up on IWB holsters altogether ⁠— they resorted to carrying on their ankle.

After trying this product, they were pleased that an IWB holster exists that is comfortable and works well to draw firearms quickly.

Summary

This sturdy holster will provide great concealment and quick draw speeds if you want to carry your firearms on your side. It isn’t optimized for carrying at the 12 o’clock position due to its size, however.

Due to the holster’s ability to be heavily customized, this is a great purchase to make if you carry at a 3 o’clock or 9 o’clock position.

9. Multi Holsters Elite IWB FOMI Right-Hand Holster

The finish of this holster is well done and looks pleasant to the eye. Its external appearances are not only acceptable, but its performance is remarkable as well. This holster can fit the bill for most situations due to its strong available features and reliable performance.

What Customers Are Saying

Customers loved this holster. Its retention was so strong that a reviewer was unable to take out their firearm despite shaking their holster around.

This model was credited to be built well and sturdy; recommendations were given to this unit for meeting the high expectations for a reliable holster.

For this model, you may need a belt, you can familiarize yourself with our list of the best duty belts leather and nylon.

Summary

This is a great concealed carry holster for glock 43: It excels in almost every category to make it an ideal purchase. A minority of buyers might find the perfect firearm position to be a slightly challenging in locating, however.

The unit’s price is also not as affordable when comparing it to other models. But this product has what the majority of people are looking for in a good IWB holster.

10. B.B.F Make IWB KYDEX Holster

If you are looking for a holster that does everything right, look no further. The company behind this model designed a product that is compact, sturdy, adjustable and comfortable.

This particular holster could only be problematic for a very specific group of people who might want something larger or need more features. For anyone looking to holster a compact weapon without attachments, this unit deservers some inquiry.

What Customers Are Saying

Reviewers were in agreement that this holster was an amazing purchase to make. Its price was commented to be affordable, but the quality of the device was thought to far exceed the money spent to acquire it.

Featuring adjustability and comfort, this holster was very popular for doing everything right. Since it was also designed to be very slim, customers were impressed that they were able to find a unit that can also be used to carry discreetly.

Summary

This IWB holster for glock 43 is affordable and designed well: It is the perfect gift for someone looking to start carrying. The holster can serve seasoned veterans as well.

It securely stores a firearm from accidentally falling out and has good customizability in cant and retention levels.

We also invite you to meet our best AIWB holsters.

Factors to Consider When Buying IWB Holster for Glock 43

An inside-the-waistband holster is a great way to carry a Glock 43. This firearm can be concealed with the right holster, and it can be visibly worn to make quick draws.

When choosing a holster for this firearm, there are a few questions to ask yourself to make the right purchase. Consider the following points to help you buy the right holster for your needs.

Desired Carrying Location

Smaller holsters will let you carry your Glock anywhere around your waist. Larger models may offer more features, but they will need to be positioned on your sides.

If carrying at the 12 o’clock position is important to you, then consider forgoing a fully-featured holster in favor of a compact one.

Experience in Handling Firearms

If you are new to carrying firearms, asking for recommendations from an expert can go a long way.

A holster might sound good on paper, but advice from an experienced individual can let you find the perfect model for your situation.

Experts can be found all over the place; it shouldn’t take too much effort to locate someone who has been in your situation.

Importance of Concealment

If you are tying to conceal your firearm, you will need to find a holster that has a slim or compact design. Larger holsters can print onto your clothing and inform observant individuals that you are armed.

There are compact holsters with great features, so you shouldn’t have to miss out by picking up a smaller model.

Local Weather

If your local climate is very wet, think about staying away from leather holsters. Additionally, a very hot climate will make you perspire a lot. In this climate, opt for choosing a holster with a sweat guard.

These guards can protect your Glock from getting dirty by keeping them out of contact with skin.

The Types of Clothes You Wear

Finally, many holsters work well with belts. If you never wear belts, then try looking into sleeved holsters that attach onto your frame.

You’ll never want to expose yourself to a dangerous situation from a loose holster: always follow the manufacture’s instructions in how they should be worn.

The perfect concealed carry holster for glock 43 is not impossible to find. Use these tips to narrow down the market to a few models that can work for you.

Remember, we must not forget about the safe storage of weapons at home, as well as the safe transportation of weapons in the car. Therefore, we prepared lists for the storage and transportation of guns.

Conclusion

Holsters are incredibly handy and can let you defend yourself with firearms in the event that your situation becomes dangerous. Since everyone’s needs are different, your ideal holster might be different than that of another person.

Regardless of the situation, there are a few things that a holster must be able to do in order for it to be a good investment.

The best iwb holster for Glock 43 will let you carry your firearm comfortably, draw in reasonable times, and keep your weapon safe from accidently discharging. Review these ten models to narrow down your search, for a good holster will serve you well in the long term.

If you ever run into a situation where your sidearm becomes necessary to use, having an ideal holster can save your life.

Being able to draw your weapon in a flash by relying on your holster is critical: Make the choice today to get it today to help you survive any dangerous encounter.

Plate carriers are necessary for most military get ups. What is not necessary is spending an arm and a leg to get one that will work for your needs.

We reviewed the latest plate carrier products on the market in order to determine the best plate carrier for the money. Fortunately, there are plenty of options in that regard.

We have analyzed each plate carrier for durability, utility in terms of practicality and features available, ease of use and accessibility, and consumer opinions.

In doing so, we compiled a review list of the top rated plate carriers on the market to help you narrow down your options and find the best rig for you.

With the internet opening up product options, it can be difficult to get a handle on the market. It does not have to be. Continue reading to find the plate carrier most suited to you.

Comparisons Plate Carriers

Prices and images pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

10 Best Plate Carriers on the Market Today:

First in the list of reviews is the best budget plate carrier, the Condor Recon Chest Rig. Sold at an incredibly reasonable price, this plate carrier is designed with padded, cross-back shoulder straps and three kangaroo style magazine pouches.

Additionally there are pistol pouches with removable flaps in order to carry knives, multi-tools, or other accessories. The product as a whole is designed for rapid accessibility so that you are not fumbling out in the field when it matters.

What Consumers Are Saying

Consumers give an overwhelming thumbs up to this budget friendly plate carrier. For one, the price seems to satisfy everyone, with low cost being one of the most cited features for the rig.

Additionally, the size adjustability has sold many on the effectiveness and usefulness of this plate carrier by Condor. Also noted as a positive by consumers is the additional mesh pocket space behind the central rig and shoulder straps.

Conclusion

The Condor Recon Chest Rig is easily one of the most budget friendly rigs on the market. It’s adjustable sizing makes it great for those people who are smaller or larger and have trouble properly fitting into their plate carrier.

This specific plate carrier by Condor is also noted as being comfortable, which is a massive plus when you are out in the field or on active duty.

The next best plate carrier setup comes via the Condor Hydro Harness. Another Condor product, this plate carrier is also very budget friendly.

The Hydro Harness is designed more like a backpack than the previously reviewed Recon Chest Rig, which has cross-shoulder straps. This Condor product is also specifically designed to carry a hydration bladder, hence the name.

Many people use the Hydro Harness in conjunction with the Recon Chest Rig, or some other chest rig (can only guarantee fit with specific Condor models), which is why it is made with male buckle attachments.

Created with secure passage for hydration tubes, the Hydro Harness holds the bladder on the back and via these tubes transports hydration over the right shoulder of the harness.

What Consumers Are Saying

Just as with the Condor Recon Chest Rig, consumers are highly satisfied with this Hydro Harness. Again the price is noted as being outstanding and hard to beat.

Additionally, those who already use a Condor chest rig claim that the fit of the Hydro Harness along with the chest rig is seamless and simple.

One such consumer notes that when in conjunction with a Condor chest rig, the Hydro Harness conveniently becomes the load bearing vest.

Conclusion

The Condor Hydro Harness is a fantastic edition to a Condor chest rig. Not only does it allow for hydration, but the Hydro Harness also bears some of the load of chest rigs when attached to one another, creating convenience and overall maneuverability with a chest rig.

At the third spot we have the next best affordable plate carrier in the vAv YAKEDA Tactical Rapid Assault Chest Rig Vest. This model from vAv YAKEDA can be seen as an upgraded form of the Recon Chest Rig by Condor reviewed at number one.

Unlike the Recon Chest Rig, the Tactical Rapid Assault Rig has no cross-back shoulder straps, instead designed with normal backpack style, over the shoulder straps. Additionally, this chest rig has multiple magazine pouches allowing for the carrying of up to nine magazines.

What Consumers Are Saying

Consumers are pretty blown away by the quality of the Tactical Rapid Assault Chest Rig Vest. Some users even go as far as to say the vest is a “must buy.”

Others note that the removability of all the pouches is a great feature, allowing for a good bit of user modification. As for the price, many say there are not many deals that can beat it with the quality of craftsmanship provided.

Conclusion

In conclusion the vAv YAKEDA Tactical Rapid Assault Chest Rig Vest is a great chest rig for those looking for heavy modification.

With the high number of pouches and rows of MOLLE, there are many variations of ways in which one can get the most out of this vest. So if you love quality over brand names, this vest should be in consideration.

In the fourth spot is the best low profile plate carrier on the market.

The Helikon-Tex Range Line Training Mini Rig is different from the previously reviewed chest rigs because it is designed with two main zipper pockets in the central area of the rig, one of which hangs lower than the rest of the Training Mini Rig.

This chest rig also has a different shoulder strap setup, with the shoulder straps designed as an H-strap harness.

While there are more cargo pockets on this Training Mini Rig, the flap pouches are less central to the rig, possibly altering the functionality of the rig.

What Consumers Are Saying

Consumers love this Training Mini Rig from the Helikon-Tex Range Line. The materials are claimed to be high quality, durable, and authentic.

Many consumers find it highly comfortable while in use as well. Additionally, consumers applaud the high capacity of this rig system, finding that it fits plenty of gear and magazines/rounds for excursions.

Conclusion

In conclusion the Helikon-Tex Range Line Training Mini Rig can be more than just a training rig. For those non-military readers, this rig system is a fantastic option for hunters or other outdoors activity enthusiasts.

The space offered by this chest rig is second to none according to consumers and the durability of it leaves nothing wanting.

The next product in review is yet another inexpensive plate carrier, the ArcEnCiel Tactical MOLLE Vest. This is one of the more unique plate carriers under review thus far due to its fit.

This Tactical MOLLE Vest is more akin to a regular vest in that it does not have straps but rather is designed as a velcro system where the portions that go over your shoulders and around your waist velcro to the back piece.

This design allows for less mishap with straps and more focus on keeping your supplies and equipment stable and in place.

What Consumers Are Saying

For the most part, consumers are in agreement about this chest rig being of great value for a more than affordable price. Its adjustable size also satisfies consumers who are larger and tend to have to triple check the ability for a rig to fit them.

Many of the consumers are surprised at the high quality design, claiming it is more durable than they had been prepared for.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is not much to dislike, if at all, about this ArcEnCiel Tactical MOLLE Vest. It is designed to fit comfortably and sturdily and is made from highly durable material that is sure to hold in whatever action it is you are involved in.

With a high number of pouches and being fully modifiable, this plate carrier is great for any experience level user.

At the sixth spot is another Condor product and is one of the more comfortable plate carrier models available on the market.

The Condor Outdoor Modular Chest Set is designed similarly to the vAv YAKEDA in that its straps are over the shoulder, h-straps that hook to the front center of the chest rig.

This models magazine pouches are built into the chest rig, allowing for less modification but heavily sturdy and reliable pouches. This chest set is also unique in that it acts as a chest rig and hydration bladder simultaneously. Although, like its cousin product, this plate carrier does not come with a hydration bladder.

What Consumers Are Saying

Consumers are generally on the same page about this Condor offering, it is a good rig and certainly gets the job done. It is claimed to have sufficient space for your needs and also wears very comfortably.

One aspect in particular that is not the greatest is the hydration carrier because there is no tube management system, which might require some modification for easier use.

Conclusion

Condor offers another fantastic plate carrie product with the Modular Chest Set. It is one of the most durable options on the market yet it remains one of, if not the most, comfortable chest rig systems available.

With removable and adjustable features throughout, the Condor Modular Chest Set is great for hunters, military men/women, and other outdoorsmen looking for sufficient yet modifiable space for equipment.

The next best plate carrier on the list is the 5.11 Tactical VTAC LBE Military Vest with MOLLE. This is the first plate carrier on the list that is designed and put on in a similar fashion to vest coats.

This is a normally fashioned vest with a zipper up the middle. This differs from the products reviewed thus far that mostly sport straps.

This model from 5.11 is also unique in that there are no pouches situated on the exterior of the vest, which is loaded with MOLLE rows and webbing. The Tactical VTAC LBE Military Vest does, however, have mesh pockets on the inside of the vest.

What Consumers Are Saying

This Tactical VTAC LBE Military Vest is generally considered a great option by most consumers. Most noted about the vest is its load bearing ability and comfort while wearing.

Consumers note the high durability of the material claim, as a whole, that the vest is quite sturdy. The modifiable nature of the vest is also a hit among consumers.

Conclusion

In conclusion the 5.11 Tactical VTAC LBE Military Vest is widely agreed upon as being of high quality and high usability.

Its modifiable nature gives plenty of reason for one to consider this plate carrier as it allows you to have a fully customizable experience with your equipment setup.

Coming in at the eighth spot in the reviews is one of the most expensive plate carrier options on the market. The BLACKHAWK! S.T.R.I.K.E.

Elite Vest is similar in form to the 5.11 Tactical vest discussed just previously at the seventh spot in that it goes on like a normal vest and zips up in the front middle section.

Also, similar to the 5.11 Tactical vest, this model has no exterior pockets or pouches but rather has many rows of MOLLE webbing allowing you to customize your setup.

What Consumers Are Saying

Consumers are typically enamored with this vest with a few exceptions. Some customers note that while the vest is size adjustable, it really is not one size fits all.

One gripe with the product is lack of varied size options as the conditions for a comfortable, snug fit are somewhat restricted.

Other than that, consumers applaud the high modifiability of the vest and claim that the material is heavily durable. Others say it serves as a great load bearing vest.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this S.T.R.I.K.E. Elite Vest from BLACKHAWK! is best suited for more experienced users and those who need varying setups on their vest for various different applications.

Given its price, the vest really should be avoided by beginners, who may need much more or even less than is included in this product package.

The next product option in review is one of the best concealed plate carrier models available.

The EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Tactical Vest is similar to the IDOGEAR vest just previously reviewed in that it is constructed with two large torso sections, front and back, that are connected via over the shoulder straps.

Unlike the IDOGEAR option, this EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Tactical Vest does not have side panel sections. So there really is no side protection with all of the protection coming in the front and back.

As with many of the models reviewed here, this vest has extensive MOLLE webbing and that alone makes it worth considering.

What Consumers Are Saying

There is not all that much consumer chatter surrounding this EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Tactical Vest. Those who do have something to say claim that the vest is great for them and that it has terrific quality and craftsmanship for the price.

Others claim to love the vest for paintball and airsoft and note that it is comfortable but not at the expense of utility.

Conclusion

The EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Tactical Vest is, in conclusion, a great plate carrier option for the recreational user, such as paintballers and airsoft players.

While its use is not limited to the recreational field, it would be hard for this vest to beat out some of the more viable options on the list for active duty and military users.

If you are looking for travel backpacks, then we have already chosen the best for you, you just need to choose from our list of the best bushcraft backpacks. You will be satisfied.

Our next high quality plate carrier in review is the IDOGEAR Tactical Vest. Similar to the ArcEnCiel Tactical Vest previously reviewed, this vest is more of a full torso product with holes for the head and arms.

While there are still straps in use, they are not the typical cross-back or h-strap design. Instead, the straps are shorter and connect the front and back torso pieces just around the shoulder.

Another standout feature of the IDOGEAR Tactical Vest is the extensive MOLLE webbing, which again allows for high customization of the vest in addition to what’s provided.

What Consumers Are Saying

Consumer reviews are mixed about this IDOGEAR Tactical Vest. While some consumers are highly satisfied with their purchases, others note that the vest is entirely too small. This is where one size fits all production can be a hinderance.

Others note that the vest is likely more suitable for paintball and other outdoor recreations rather than military or active duty use.

Others even claim that the vest is not suited for realistic use and that it’s a poorly designed model. Tread lightly when considering this particular vest model.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this vest is a better option for paintballers and airsoft players. While it can be used for military or hunting applications, it may be less likely to hold up than some other options on the market.

However, the extensive MOLLE webbing does allow for high customization and therefore the IDOGEAR Tactical Vest could be great for you and your particular needs.

Tips on Choosing the Best Plate Carriers

The following is a list of tips on choosing the best plate carriers:

Look for high quality first and foremost

Whatever the reason is for your needing a plate carrier, quality should always remain a top priority. While we have reviewed quite a few options that are both affordable and well-made, finding a budget plate carrier should never take precedence.

Look into the brands further before making a purchasing decision if you are not totally convinced of an item’s quality. Typically, American made plate carrier models are among the best available.

Plate carriers do not have to be overly expensive

While more expensive plate carriers are generally going to be of higher quality, that does not mean you have to buy the most expensive thing you can find.

As we have covered in the reviews, there are plenty of cheap plate carrier models that fill most of the feature boxes.

Check product reviews

While product reviews can be hard to gauge, they are generally a good place to start to understand consumer reception to the product.

Most reviews are left by either highly satisfied consumers or highly disappointed consumers; so depending how the product reviews, you can find out whether it is viable or not.

Determine plate carrier compatibility

Many of the plate carriers reviewed here are customizable and able to be modified and combined with other equipment. This means that you can add on pockets, pouches, additional rigs, etc.

While many, if not all, of the products reviewed come equipped with MOLLE webbing, it does not mean that chest rigs and vests by different brands will be compatible.

Most pouches and pockets will be able to be used but it cannot be guaranteed. So if you already have some equipment by a particular brand that you are satisfied with, it may be wise to search for a plate carrier from the same brand.

Compare and contrast features

There are many forms of plate carriers and while some differ, many are quite similar in function.

You can best figure out which product is for you by creating a comparison list between model options you find attractive.

This will allow you to easily determine whether or not a certain product has enough magazine pouches as well as enough MOLLE webbing for your desires, etc.

Seeing specific features and facing them against another product of interest’s features is key to tangibly finding which item is most suited for you.

Factors to Consider When Buying Plate Carrier Vest

The following is a list of factors to consider when buying the best plate carrier vest:

MOLLE webbing

The MOLLE webbing on plate carrier vests is essential to the vests overall efficiency and usability. Some brands and models of vests approach this aspect of the vest better than their competitors.

Modification and customization can be majorly helpful when setting up a vest for optimal use and that is why MOLLE webbing is one of the first things you should consider when buying a plate carrier vest.

Also, if you expect to want some control over your vest set up, be wary of vests that do not allow you to move or separate magazine pouches.

Price

As was touched upon in the tips section, the price is something to consider when deciding which plate carrier vest is most ideal for you and the uses you intend for it. While going super cheap can be a mistake, so can overpaying for a vest.

There’s a sweet middle ground when it comes to these vests and you want to be sure you are playing in it when shopping for a new plate carrier.

Many of the vests reviewed fall into this middle ground of relatively cheap, budget friendly and high quality, high efficiency use. So do not cheap out but do not break the bank either (unless of course you want to).

Expected use

The next thing to consider is what you intend to use the plate carrier for. While most people in the market for a plate carrier are military personnel, some are not and there are certainly other uses for plate carriers.

However, if you are military or serving active duty, make sure the options you are considering are military approved plate carriers. If you are not military, you should still consider your intended use of a plate carrier.

By knowing exactly what you need the vest for and how you may need the vest you will be able to narrow down your search to a select few options from good plate carrier brands.

Strap style

A final factor to seriously consider is the strap style on the vest. We have reviewed models with quite a few strap variations.

First, there is the cross-back (x-type shape) straps.

Next, there are the h-straps, somewhat similar to normal backpack straps but with a conjoining horizontal piece.

Finally, there were the full vest styles that either zip up or velcro together.

Depending on your use, you may not need a full torso plate carrier and that will invariably eliminate zip up vest models.

However, any further distinction is personal preference in terms of comfort and whether or not you plan to combine your plate carrier with other vests or rigs, thus making the straps a potential attachment point.

If you are in service, you need accessories that will never let you down. Therefore, we select only the best products for you. Check out our listings, such as best duty belts and ham portable radios. And they won’t let you down.

Plate Carrier Vest FAQ

Is it necessary to get a modifiable plate carrier vest?

No it is not a necessity that you get a modifiable plate carrier vest. Some vests come with everything certain individuals may need from their vest.

However, there are many reasons to consider buying a highly modifiable plate carrier vest as we have discussed. So is it necessary? No. Would it be recommended and likely helpful? Absolutely. For this reason it is suggested you go with the best MOLLE plate carrier.

I am military personnel, do I need a particular plate carrier?

The answer here is both yes and no. Yes because whichever options you decide to choose between, they must be military approved plate carriers.

The answer is also no because there are multiple models and options that are military approved. So while you are restricted to what is approved, you are not restricted to choosing from one vest option.

Do most plate carrier vests come with plates and included pouches, pockets, etc.?

No, most plate carrier vests do not come with actual plates. However, many options do come equipped with included pouches, pockets, etc. In fact, these are what make and break many of the available options.

Typically, the items that come with included pouches, pockets, etc. are the ones that have a bit less MOLLE webbing to utilize.

On the other hand, many of the vests that come as vest pieces only have extensive MOLLE webbing and plenty of area to modify and make just as you see fit.

So again, the positive or negative in particular objects coming with pouches, pockets, etc. included rather that not is dependent upon how you intend to use the vest.

Many of the plate carrier options are one size fits all. Should I be buying a one size fits all product or searching for a particular size?

There is no definite answer here. A good measure to go off of would be whether or not you have had trouble getting previously used plate carriers or similar equipment to fit.

Many people are able to fit into the one size fits all, or one size fits all options. However, there are other folks who find it difficult to fit into these models with the rest of their gear.

The best advice would be to read carefully each product description when shopping in order to avoid ordering something too small.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best plate carrier for the price is not necessarily the best plate carrier at the lowest price. The best option will be in accordance with the various ways in which you intend to use you plate carrier vest while remaining budget friendly.

That is what we have demonstrated here with these reviews, that quality plate carriers are ripe for the taking at affordable prices. Again, no one should be looking to cheap out, but spending too much can be painful in hindsight.

We have provided some thorough product descriptions for ten of the best plate carriers we could find in the hopes that you could avoid unnecessary grunt work.

With so many reasonably priced, well-constructed, and heavy-duty options available, we are sure you can find the exact plate carrier for your needs. So now that you know, it is time to determine which option works for you!