When you’re up against high-powered rifles and other firearms, you want to have a rugged, resilient plate carrier vest on your side. But just what is a plate carrier, anyway?
Plate carriers offer advanced protection
Simply put, plate carriers are an enhanced form of in-the-field protection.
Ideal for military, law enforcement, and security professionals—basically anyone who requires something more than soft body armor for their next operation—these vests are comprised of various pockets specially designed to accommodate ballistic plates.
There are many types of plate carrier vests, including:
- Lightweight options that can weigh as little as two pounds or less
- Heavy-duty vests that offer a greater degree of coverage for your chest, stomach, and back
- Modular carriers that can be customized according to the wearer’s needs
Regardless of the type of vest you’re seeking, you can be sure of one thing: plate carriers tend to offer better, more comprehensive protection during intense combat situations.
More often than not, they’re also built for maximum comfort and flexibility, given the incredible physical strain that their wearers endure while on a mission.
With so many options available on the market, which ballistic plate carrier vest offers the greatest protection—while also offering the most discreet, functional, and comfortable design?
Here are just a few of the best plate carrier brands available through US Patriot Tactical.
5.11 Tactical
Snug and lightweight, 5.11 Tactical’s TacTec Plate Carrier—as well as the Taclite Plate Carrier—offer superior protection without compromising on wearer mobility. 
Fashioned with adjustable elements like shoulder straps, as well as waist and tensional bands, 5.11’s vests can offer a greater degree of comfort and customization, too.
Best of all?
Both options are crafted from 500D nylon, which means they’re engineered to withstand all of the wear and tear one can expect during a mission.
Condor Tactical
There are over nine different Condor Tactical plate carrier vests to choose from at US Patriot Tactical.
From the Condor Modular Operator Plate Carrier, to the Condor Gunner Plate Carrier Vest, all feature unique designs, but some have a few things in common:
- With the exception of the Cyclone Lightweight Plate Carrier, all Condor Tactical plate carrier vests are equipped with an emergency buddy drag handle
- Padded interior mesh lining that improves wearer comfort and allows greater movement of air, lowering internal temperature
- Adjustable elements like shoulder straps that allow the wearer to modify to the fit of the vest to their liking
Crye Precision
The Crye Precision Jumpable Plate Carrier (available in Coyote, Multicam, and Ranger Green) allows for advanced airflow, which means a diminished likelihood of overheating underneath the armor.
What’s more, since interior panels are made of high-performance stretch material, the Jumpable Plate Carrier can accommodate ballistic plates of varying thicknesses.
Padded mesh ventilation, a spacious storage pouch along the front specially designed to hold magazines, and an exterior surface of Cordura nylon built to withstand the rough-and-tumble nature of battle. When you’re in need of a top plate carrier, look no further.
Rothco
Weighing in at just a little over one pound, the Rothco Lightweight Plate Carrier Vest certainly lives up to its name.
Made from 600D polyester, this vest features everything you would expect from contemporary plate carriers—from an adjustable design to front and back panels built to accommodate large ballistic plates.
What sets the Rothco plate carrier apart is its lightweight design. If you’re interested in protecting your mobility and staying comfortable, the Rothco version is your best bet.
Shellback Tactical
Available in Black, Coyote, Multicam and Ranger Green, the Shellback Tactical Skirmish Plate Carrier comes with a range of special features, including:
- A kangaroo pouch ideal for magazine storage
- A rear drag handle for use in emergencies
- A lifetime warranty for peace of mind
We’re not going to hazard a guess as to who makes the best plate carrier vest—all are uniquely suited for combat situations in their own right. The better question is, which plate carrier vest works best for you?
Explore all of the options available through US Patriot Tactical to find your ideal fit.
