I finally made up my mind and found a plate carrier on sale that had good reviews.

https://www.govx.com/p/89523/exo-plate-carrier-gen-ii

I am now trying to find a nifty quick entry deal for these plate carriers that has two snaps instead of having to pull the Velcro front up each time to dawn the carrier.
I hate when I can’t find stuff because I didn’t save the links...

Found it!!!
https://shop.blazedefensesystems.com/sh ... ersion-kit

*imported

Plenty of home turf companies make these things.

Sorry, sadly that is the case, I can’t afford a $200+ plate carrier, I’ll spend the $$$ on American made plates though.

Ah condor vests. I should warn you that they can be very hit and miss with their quality. They’re not really known for being the greatest vests out there. But I’ve known some folks that had them for quite some time with no issues.

Thanks for that info NAM, I’m hoping for one that was built on a Tuesday thru Thursday.
I won’t be wearing it to the pit (range) very much since I’m an old fart. I’m going to use it in case a team is about to raid the hacienda or the CW-II... I’m not a Merc either.

Not a problem. I’d recommend you check out this listing as well. Not too expensive and for a “oh shit” vest they’re pretty decent. Plus it has soft armor which can be helpful

https://www.waguns.org/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=107929&mobile=desktop

https://www.highcomarmor.com/product/trooper-cap/
$130-40


there are other inexpensive options without going commie

tac-tailor is in the $170 range

https://www.skdtac.com/PIG-Brig-Plate-C ... ig.401.htm

Well this one is reasonably priced, and much higher quality than condor: https://www.beezcombatsystems.com/Ameri ... CM-500.htm

This is the cumberbund I use with my Banshee: https://www.beezcombatsystems.com/Retro ... s-GRID.htm

As you can see, it's cheaper than the Blaze conversion, if you go with a carrier that accepts a standard cumber.

You get what you pay for with this stuff. Internet reviews can be posted by anybody...it's a common tactic of cheap companies to have "shills" all over the place giving positive reviews.

100-150 really is going to be the minimum threshold for a known, good quality armor carrier, unless you find a black Friday, steals-and-deals kind of thing. It happens.

Another great one: https://www.blueforcegear.com/plateminus-plate-carrier

I have a Beez BALCS carrier and can testify. (attest)

It’s a done deal folks, I guess I went commie.... Like I said before, I’m limited on funds so there’s that.
Also, I’m not going to be a grunt just want protection to defend the hacienda.

Thanks for all the input from those in the know.

Hey man, you are farther ahead on the readiness game than most. It doesn’t matter what any of us think, it’s what your are comfortable with. Let us know how it works and fits for you, may be a viable option for others looking to get a Plate carrier.

Hi, newbie here. I do not own plate carrier. But for some reason I'm thinking of getting one... :).

One practical question though I have difficulty with: What are hypothetical scenarios where a civilian would be advised and have an opportunity to don his/her gun belt, plate carrier etc.? Militia? Any thoughts on this?

I’m sure everyone could provide a different answer, cause everyone would have different needs. Think of it like auto/home insurance. Hopefully you’ll never need it, but if you do it may save your ass. Most of my jobs I’m in armor the whole time, even if it’s not a requirement. For me the logic has always been if I’m armed on duty I should have armor on, because there’s always that expectation of a threat.

The most basic scenario for most should be home invasion stuff. Bad guys like to carry guns, and having something that stops bullets is generally a good idea. The recent incident in Florida is a prime example of this.

Given all the riots and violence we’re seeing happening in the cities, to have a carrier stashed in the vehicle certainly wouldn’t hurt. There’s been a number of instances of people getting shot or shot at while trying to navigate around some of these riots.

Also heres a pretty decent deal. Can’t speak on quality of the vest, but the plates are certified and will give you decent protection

https://acelinkarmor.com/product/tactop-2-level-iii-hard-armor-plates/

Thanks! Makes sense! To keep the carrier inconspicuous in the car or on your person do you think this gizmo could work: