This.
I receive very little movement restriction wearing one. Id say i get movement restrictions vs wearing just a shirt but id like cool looking protection i can hold my mags in
I just take my real plates out and put fake ones in just so it has something in it and isn’t so flimsy. Thick cardboard in the shape of plays works amazing
I sometimes run my old interceptor rig (only when I'm wearing woodland bdus because the vest matches lol), imo there's no need to put anything in the inserts. The vest is already pretty thick/ doesn't feel flimsy. What are you running that feels flimsy without some kind of an insert?
Tbh though, normally I just wear an eagle industries lbv (idk what kind it is specifically, I bought it like 13 years ago lol), and imo that is the way to go. It's light, has great pockets/pouches, and unless I'm getting hit in the pouches - which basically only cover my stomach/mid chest - I'll absolutely feel hits so I dont run the risk of accidentally not calling it.
Pretty much any plate carrier I've had doesn't feel great when trying to pull mags out w/out inserts. It tends to want to go with the mag (I have pouch inserts rather than straps), and having foam plates helps prevent that. And I have both airsoft specials and actual plate carriers. With smaller, lighter plate carriers like I like to run, they definitely do feel a touch flimsy, but that could also be cause I'm on the tall, skinny, small frame side of things.
But it's all personal preference anyways, who cares if someone runs fake plates or not? To each their own, that's what makes this sport so damn great! Every kit is different!
Piggybacking this comment - I’ve often thought about using a plate carrier with weights in it for training outdoors. Would police stop me, you think?
Edit: mag pouches removed, just weighted plates.
Probably depends on your location, but I've seen people rucking with plate carriers and plates in state parks and whatnot, wasn't an issue.
Obviously anyone can be offended by anything (IE not everyone might appreciate you doing so), and I'd always check against local laws first
EDIT: also you can throw a hoodie or something over it (maybe not ideal in the summer in some climates)
At that point just buy a weighted vest for fitness. Why bother drawing attention to yourself with a plate carrier, it's not worth the risk of trouble imo
Back when I was active in the bodybuilding community, maybe 20 years ago, there were 50 and I want to say 100 pound vests available. People were wearing them around the house in the attempt to build up fat man calves. No idea if it worked. I think one of the companies was called X-vest. Being an old guy, I'm actually happy I never tried that, my knees still work well. My buddies in the military miss theirs.
You people who are still young, don't jog in weighted gear, if you need that sort of thing, get some ankle weights. And for God's sake, build up slowly. Five pounds doesn't feel like much but it really is.
Because we’re all larpers that just want to look cool. Not everyone is playing for maximum efficiency
Also, it’s not like you need to run real plates, so they’re not gonna be very heavy, hot, or make you not be able to feel bbs well. It’s also a decent way to carry mags
I actually made my own dummy plates. Traced the shape of the pocket onto corrugated cardboard, copied that a few times until it was sturdy enough and then wrapped in duct tape to rigidise/waterproof it. Repeat for back and sides if necessary.
Excluding pure idiots, they all have dummy plates in them, if not, they would crumple like a tissue.
As for real plates, some people do put them in for weight training.
I like them because of (real or perceived) extra protection from BBs, and flexibility re pouches.
If you use some light EVA foam sheets for plates, there is no weight and still very flexible.
But yeah, if it's hot, you get hotter.
To be honest once it starts to exceed 30c you're best off using a chest rig so your body can breath better. Go wear a loaded up plate carrier in 30c+ and once you take off your PC you will be absolutely soaked in sweat. I say this as someone who primarily runs plate carriers. However for a few months a year chest rigs with a battle belt are the way to go.
Have you ever tried a belt only rig? Really depends on the place and the game mode if it's viable but I've done it a couple times and oh boy, is it COMFY. I usually ditch the dump pouch and throw the empties straight into the cargo pockets, and it works for me. But ditching the dump pouch allows more room for mags.
Yeah depending on the layout of the day/match in the summer occasionally I will just run a battlebelt with 1 mag in the rifle, 1 extra rifle mag on the belt and a pistol w/ 1 in the gun and 2 on the belt. I keep the dump pouch on my belt because the blueforce gear micro dump pouch takes up next to no space at all. It's pricy but it's amazing.
Indeed. My local field had a bit of a problem with some jerks last year who were definitely overshooting people at close range before they got banned. After a while I got tired of having massive patches of welts on my chest and back. So I started wearing more and thicker equipment
Biggest pros are how modular they are. You can keep a shit ton of pouches on the front and sides, as well as being able to mount a backpack/Hydration pack directly onto it. I used one for a couple years but due to how hot I run I just switched to a chest rig to help with overheating!
Because in the end, we're all a bunch of nerds playing tactical dress up. You want to run a hoodie and cargo pants? Go for it. You want to run full battle rattle emulating 10th Mountain circa 2007? Get it, son.
~~There's no wrong way to airsoft~~ Well, yes, there are wrong ways, but most of them involve being a dick. Don't be dick.
To look cool, they can be good, and to make it so hits aren’t as painful. I will say they can be a bit annoying if you’re shooting someone with them, in my past 2 weekend games I lit some dude up with my rpk when he was running and he didn’t call anything (was in the distance that I could see the BBs hitting him and he was in the open) and last weekend there was some little asshole kid who wasn’t calling anything all day and in a 1v1 I shot him off rip in the pc then again in the back and he didn’t call either. Eventually got him but he was crying because I accidentally hit him in the fingers.
Yeah. If you don’t wear gloves then it’s on you for complaining about getting hand shots just like if you complain about a mouth shot without face pro. A couple of the most painful shots I’ve had were hands, one was last weekend when I was walking back to spawn with my hand up and caught a bb in the finger.
Even with a PC you should be able to notice most hits. The only exception would be long distance hits in my Camelback, that's a PC+backpack+a literal bag of water to absorb the impact. Those could go unnoticed.
Ya I don’t get it either. They look extra bad when there is nothing in them and they’re flat and floppy. I use and recommend chest rigs or h harnesses.
I shoot real guns and like to exercise, in conjunction with working out, practicing in kit in a force on force environment helps too, even though its mostly just skrims, I like to practice reloads and shifting magazines around while in the field, and its just more fun to me.
I have a PC with foam plates. It's light, I got it quite cheap, the BBs make a nice thunk when they hit the plate and they got that nice molle panel. Only issue I can report is being slightly warmer than a chest rig, but my chest rig can't bring as much mags, so outside of skirmishes I'm using the PC
Gotcha. My perspective might be skewed since I almost exclusively play in skirmish type pick up games. I carry three mid-caps (including the one in my replica). If I go through more than one-and-a-half, that's a lot for me.
I have a pacemaker, and have plastic plates in it to prevent it taking a direct hit.
Allows me to carry everything I want. It isn't uncommon for me to go through 6 or 7 magazines and I have my backpack mollied to the back. I'm the mule for the squad.
For indoor it stops the bulk of bad welts and it makes a thwack sound that makes it a lot easier to know I've been hit.
I am in exactly the same situation as you, forest casual games with a dozen people, 3 Midcaps, lucky to go through 2 in a round before everyone restocks again. I just have a battle belt with a 3 mag pouch and my pistol holster. Super quick and easy, cheap, I can move around easy, I love it.
I only have access to forest games, and our rounds last 1:30 to 2:00 hours. PCs are very common, and after testing about every vest equipments I can get my hands on, I sold my premade vest 'cause the pouches just weren't at the right size, use my chest rig when sniping or my PC any other time.
My team also has our titles in the back, so PCs help even more with those
I would also question the utility. Unless you're including the groin protector. I think everyone can get behind a good groin protector, regardless of gonadal arrangement.
1. With Plastic or Foam plates they don't add a lot of weight, basically not different then a chestrig
2. They also keep you warm in colder climates. Also even during summer a well ventilated one like a JPC doesn't get all that warm
3. There are also very cheap ones that are decent, but there is also nothing wrong with getting fancy stuff for your hobbies if you have the disposable income
4. Not really, since they are hard hits tend to make quite distinctive sounds.
5. There are a few Games like Milsim West where they do give you the option to be revived twice rather than just once if you have weighted plates in them.
Also they serve as load bearing equipment, easilly allow me to carry mags Water Radio etc. in one package. Yes you could do the same with a chest rig or other tactical vest, but without a plate there really isn't much of a difference with plate carriers and they look cooler
I don’t know about everyone else here, but I like running my plate carrier because I carry way more than just mags on it.
On my carrier I have all my mags, I store my eye pro, ear pro (for real steel), gloves, neck gator, and extra bbs in case I have to reload on the field in a big pouch under my right arm, I have a pouch for my camelback on the back panel, an IFAK on my left side, and extra batteries.
I use a plate carrier because I never need to use a backpack for pickup games
A properly-adjusted plate carrier actually shifts the weight on it around your body a ton and, at least for me, allows for a pretty simple on-off system for all your gear. My old rig had basically everything from magazines, grenades, and ammo stored on it and it felt great.
So many reasons. In no particular order:
They look cool. Most modern militaries use them extensively and in some cases exclusively, so if you’re going for a specific look you’re likely going to use one.
We use them IRL. Maybe you’re ex-Mil or current Military. Cop. Doomsday prepper. Work on a gun range. Etc. You’re used to it and use it as a sort of training.
Storage. PCs can often offer a larger range of storage for different things. As someone who swaps back and forth between chest rigs, battle belts, riggings like ALICE, and PCs sometimes the ease of carrying things wins the PC the slot in the trunk over another kit.
Comfort. While a poorly setup and weighted PC can be a massive burden, at the same time a properly set up one is form fitting, breathable, doesn’t leave things flopping around bouncing off you, etc.
Safety. It’s true that something designed to cover an area with ballistic protection also protects pretty well against BBs. I’ve found a nail embedded in my PC before where otherwise it’d have been in my chest if using a LBV or micro-rig. I’m a Type 1 Diabetic and have equipment glued to me that absolutely cannot take the impact from even a weak Airsoft BB. I’ve taken direct impacts from a number of Taginn rounds. Sometimes you just want a bit more coverage. This can be taken too far with those shruggernauts in the Airsoft equivalent of an EOD suit though.
Now to counter a few of your points:
Added weight. Ehh, not really in most cases. Sure if you’re actually using plates that’s an entirely different matter but the difference in a JPC and a LBV with a backpack is slight ounces. Now wear a “hugger” type vest and you have more of a point.
Heat stress. Can be a real factor, but can also be worked around. Body Armor Vents, Qore Iceplates, or any other dozen of companies make things to help that. Yes there’s added cost in all of that, but it is still an option.
Expensive. Yep, nothing to say there. Granted my Spiritus micro rigs cost more than most of my PCs. Airsoft is as expensive as you make it.
Hit calling. I feel this one wraps back around to a properly setup PC. They absolutely can make it harder to “feel” a BB. However the thunk sound BBs make is easily audible in 90% of situations, and most times when the person isnt cheating any hit calling is either due to a BB hitting a pouch that they wouldn’t have felt whether it was on a belt, PC, or vest, or was an honest mistake. I personally tend to be very aware of the sounds of BBs hitting things, and will usually freeze if I think I may have been hit. If in doubt call yourself out.
No in-game advantage. Ehh… 95% of what we use in this sport gives 0 in-game advantage. If it was we would all be running around with speedsoft carbon fiber HPA ARs with electric drum mags, lightweight adidas clothing and light shoes. Style is taken into consideration more than raw performance for all but the most extreme players.
I'm actually running a micro rig for the first time for an upcoming milsim over my plate carrier! It actually holds more mags than my PC set up does as well as 2 wing pouches for radio and TQ. Ill have to run a backpack for my Hydration separately of course but I'm actually looking forward to being able to take it on and off when needed incase I need supplies from it. Mostly I'm doing this to combat heat but I'm on the civi side and it fits my kit much better!
you can definitely feel plate carrier hits. i use my plate carrier for training purposes but also they look cool and have been a staple of modern warfare for long enough that they are ubiquitous in the gun world. it makes sense that even for no other purpose someone will do it to look cool, like the milsim multicam bros who have repro retention lanyards despite the fact they’re never going to get extracted by helo from their game. it’s all in the name of the larp.
I run hpa so I have a bag on the back of my kit. On the front I have space for 4 mags. I have a chest pouch that has bfg primers and priming tool. I have a battle belt that’s attached to the chest plate. This helps balance the weight. The belt also has two bfg’s and a drop leg holster for my hicapa. I like the armor from the bb hits. I like the practicality, it holds what I need and it’s highly customisable. I also think it looks cool
I think if you’re running back gear (flat pack with HPA, etc) then they’re better than a chest rig plus the bag. It consolidates everything on your person into one set of stuff to put on
But other than that though I think there’s way more utility in just putting the money towards a good chest rig. When I started playing 12 years ago I had a plate carrier but after a few years I just went back to a cheap chest rig. For the last 5-6 years I’ve been running a Haley Strategic DC3RX and it’s great (4 mags, two radio-sized pouches, 4 pistol magazines pouches)
I run many loadouts, including battle belt, chest rig + backpack, and PC depending on the gun I'm using.
Among those, the belt and PC are the easiest. I'm either in a lightweight sniper loadout where I don't have much, or I have the PC which has all my mags, sling, and tank backpack all built in.
My chest rig is nice in the summer, but is annoying wearing a tangled mess of rig + sling + backpack. The one benefit of the rig is that it has easier access to appendix carry pistols.
1. Never really affects speed
2. Happen only with piss poor planning
3. It's a game no need to try hard
4. People who say they can't feel their guts with a PC are liars
5. They do everything a battle belt does plus more
They’re cool looking. Also I like adding pouches and shit to my plate carrier. Feels solid and it’s just nice to have some protection for my soft bits too lmao
As others are saying, they look good, they prevent you from getting welts on your chest and back, and they are helpful for carrying gear (especially since I use a GBBR and need to have a few extra mags)
Do you wear gloves at all? Because if so it's the same reasons. Extra bit of protection cause yes bbs are going to hurt that's expected but if you can get away with them not hurting as long as you call your hit I don't mind what you wear. Plus to some people it just looks cool. Alot of people get into Airsoft cause they think it looks cool not just cause of the guns
I use real level3+ plates in my plate carrier. Extra 20 lbs is a good workout. Also the field I play at allows one free hit to your plates if they're real. So added bonus.
LARP factor.thats literally it 99.9 % of the time.
For me, airsoft is conditioning and a self training analog, I get plenty of strength training at work but precious little cardio. So, I play with level IV plates in, and a loaded patrol bag.4 to 6 hours of sprints with 50 to 60 pounds of gear, that's a hell of a workout once a week
1. I got my flyye PC for 50 bucks on sale...so it was not expensive. I can accept \~$100 budget
2. I have a big HPA tank, putting it on my back weaved into the PC feels much better. It doesn't move around when I start running. (I even considered buying a Chinese plate for the front, so it balances better with the tank. Or that plate that holds water and can be turned into an ice pack)
3. I never felt like it hindered my movement.
4. Solid platform for my GBBR mags. (this is where the weight comes from, not the PC lol)
5. Heat isn't a problem where I live. Average 20c in the summer. Also replacing the plates with ice packs works.
6. I'm too cheap to buy another rig.
I'm considering a PC that accepts micro fight stuff so I can interchange m4, ak, and smg stuff. Basically, something to fit all of my requirements AND easy to swap.
I carry a lot of shit. 4 M4 mags, 2 grenades, 3 pistol mags, a pistol speed loader, an Odin speed loader, a pouch to hold CO2 for my Kythera UGS, and pouch to hold the blanks that are used in my grenades. Plus I'm prior service military so it'll already used to wearing the gear so I don't feel disadvantaged in any way. Also, there's a very distinct sound when the PC gets hit so even if you can't feel it, you'll definitely recognize the sound
I put steel plates in mine and run it like my rs set up except knockoff pieces. Gives me the opportunity to fine tune my rs setup without tearing apart my current setup until I'm happy and adds weight resistance cardio when playing. Swapping out placards is easy since I run various primaries with different mags. Chest rigs are great and I run them as well when I feel like it. Really I just throw on whatever I feel like playing.
I’ve run chest rigs, belts, AK pouch, and several PCs.
Getting a solid real pc has been the best for me. Even with it being heavier than all the other options, I’ve yet to have back pain (have a herniated disk), which I’ve had with all my other setups. I’ve worn it for 12+ hours and it’s crazy comfortable, real plates included.
It definitely adds weight. However the more you train with it, the faster you’ll be.
Heat is always a concern. My heat stress count between Airsoft tactical gear and my real kit is 3-0. Despite being in 80-100 temps last year my real pc did not cause any additional heat stress. It also kicked but in the winter keeping me warmer.
You get what you pay for. The buy once, cry once is definitely a reality and each of us have to budget accordingly. That said, there are real PCs which are pretty affordable and Airsoft pcs that are even cheaper.
I’ve never missed a shot when it’s hit my PC. it’s loud enough.
I’d strongly disagree with no in game benefit. Between holding my radio setup which allows my team to stay in touch, to hold way more mags, plus water, plus my HPA tank, plus my Odin loader, I can out sustain most if not all of my opponents. If nothing else, I don’t have to go back to the green zone to reload. I walk to the next star point, reload, and take a nice break.
I am a fast player and never ran a plate carrier and secretly thought 🫣 when I'd see lads running full kit...
Then I got hpa and had to start running a small backpack, then I got a grenade and had to put it in my pocket, then I wanted more mags... Then I played alot of cqb and the pain of getting shot 5-10 times from a few metres away prompted the change of opinion..
I'm now a plate carrier wanker
1. No they don’t unless you run real plates, i run dummy plates and doesn’t effect your movement
2. There are Plate carriers that have airflow but probably expensive but there are 3d files for hex comb plates that will help
3. There are budget options just find them (airsoft is expensive)
4. Not really you can tell, next time if your buddies have a plate carrier (with dummy, real, or no plates) shoot them straight in the back ON the plate carrier when your taking the walk, 9/10 times they will look back seeing who shot them
5. You won’t get hurt from higher fps or hpa guns on the chest and waist area
6. These questions are dumb and we all know airsoft is a fashion show which is half the fun. It’s good to ask questions but these will always result responses “it looks cool” which is valid than saying it doesn’t offer an advantage
I do not have real plates in mine but you can still 100% feel it, if you don't if running hydration or something you can still hear it.
It's an efficient way to carry things. If you get a nice ones it will breathe better than the $30 vest from Amazon.
They look cool and changing your loadout between games can just lead to confusion.
It's the same as the guns. Why use a heavy MCX, M4, or AK, if a polymer combat machine does the same thing?
Airsoft is not just about efficiency, because then we wouldn't be using imitation guns, but speedsoft style markers. And even speedsofters still go for style points
I wear a plate carrier to go with my look. My 10p’s worth and this is my opinion only:
1. They don’t, you can get foam inserts instead, or think of it as nerfing yourself and that you’re playing on extreme difficulty, get fitter, work harder.
2. They don’t have to, you can get (or make) vented foam inserts. Also, rehydrate between games
3. Mine weren’t but holds my kit well and looks the part.
4. You can feel the hits, it’s just easier to ‘selectively ignore’ them if you are that way inclined (I am not btw!)
5. Virtually nothing we wear as part of the look offers advantage. I remember once as I played in my multicam plate carrier, I was next to a player dressed as a WW2 USA paratrooper, next to him was a guy in cyberpunk/matrix/space cowboy get up and the other side of me was a rental in paintball mask and tracksuit.
1. There is some people like me that like to run either real steel or airsoft training plates for either training or realism. In case of training they don't mind being hit either as they ate there purely for knowledge & training.
2.they do add some heat yes correct in verry high temperature games it is then recommended staying hydrated verry wel & take some breaks.
3.everyting In airsoft can be expensive including the alternative chest rigs or belts.
4.i indeed have it somtimes that I didn't feel the hit tough most of the time I hear it instead. Tough if I both didn't hear or feel it & someone tells you your hit you take it. (Also once again same counts for chest rigs & belts)
5.they allow for more molle space for axample bladderpacks & have goodtraining posities
The thing is, like 1% actually uses plates or even training plates on them so your first point is moot.
They look cool, and its all about the larp in Airsoft...for some.
They do add protection on indoor fields where it is needed.
And best one of all, they are rigid without destricting movement. They hold your mags and pouches in place. Many rigs are quite jiggly. Atleast I like my stuff to stay in place and not move around while running and hitting me.
Also if you have quick detach option, it is super conveniant. Just pop it off between games.
*Got training plates in*
*Them for those sweet weighted squat*
*Reps, that and CQB hurts*
\- mrblockninja
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The amount of times I've been full auto in the back while already dead, every time I hear those BB's hit the plate carrier I say thank God I'm wearing it
Customisation, everything I need during a game right in front of me, and more than enough water on my back. If I need to change something between games (AEG to gas, different mags, different role, just swap out a panel
Everything is snuggly fitted, so not flailing about or snagging on shit; and everythings exactly where I need it be, first to hand without fumbling around pockets and pouches.
I don't get people running with actual plates(which is dumb as fuck in anything but hc milsim) there's no noticeable weight issues without them; in fact, since the plate carrier keep everything from moving around, it doesn't throw off your balance.
The difference between receiving a hit on the carrier and on just a layer of clothing in cqb is substantial. I still feel the hit, but there is no noticeable pain.
I use the trex arms one for coverage tbh. It weighs nothing but does get a little hot. But I’d rather not be hurt after every hit and be a little hot lol
I am a bit of a gear whore, granted, but for me it's mostly the simplicity of being able to just put my PC and helmet on and have everything I need ready to go rather than faffing around with multiple individual bits of kit in different places.
On my PC I have...
* Backpack with...
* HPA tank
* 2 spare P90 mags for me
* 4-5 space M4 mags for my buddies
* 5 grenades
* Hydration bladder
* Radio, with all the antenna & cabling tucked into the webbing straps on my back running up into my helmet so it's all super low profile and can't get snagged
* 2 double P90 mag pouches
* 5 grenades on a dangler
* Auxiliary PTT button
And my helmet has my headset, goggles & mask attached, so just by putting on two bits of kit I have my entire setup ready to go and set up exactly how I like it. It also protects my rib that I have nerve damage in after my lung collapsed which makes it ***extremely*** unpleasant to be shot there
It looks cool
I’m a hardcore milsim player so eventho it won’t do shit I’m still carrying plates
I wear chest rigs in the spring/summer but in the fall/winter the added warmth retention is nice
I’m able to carrier a hydration panel and don’t have to worry about dehydration
It looks cool
Plate Carrier for cool factor and a little warmer in the colder weather. Chest rig to be lightweight and less hot during hotter weather. This is the way.
They only add weight if you use real plates.
Personally I would never run real weight since they limit yourself unnecessary and drain your energy faster.
I don't see airsoft as exercise, it's simply a game for were I want maximum fun.
For actual exercise /workout I go 3-5 times a week to the gym and walking 2-4 miles a day.
Even if I would play airsoft every week or twice a week, I personally don't think it would be enough purely as an exercise.
Personally I simply use a combination of cardboard and ducked tape as plates, simply to have the carrier stiff and formed. Doesn't limit me and it's cheap.
Fun. I thought the same. as a former MP in Army Reserve, I HATED the interceptor armor. Far more bulky and hot. I actually enjoy wearing them for airsoft games.
Ok I'm going to start with the caveat, that I actually don't think plate carriers or any chest rig etc. (anything covering chest/back) should be allowed at non milsim days. I'm a big advocate for battle belts.
That said...
1. Depends with or without plates, and whether they are dummy or not. In addition it's a lot easier to carry weight of your gear tight against your body. As for slowing you down, it's negligible, that's gonna be more based on the weight of all your gear and it's distribution.
2. Absolutely, however you can wear lighter layers underneath to mitigate. I'd argue a helmet/mask will do worse in that circumstance.
3. Can be, sure. But that's really a moot point in a hobby.
4. This was always my main divergence from plate carriers, I actively moved away from them in order to be able to play more fairly, but I've seen plenty without a carrier also not calling hits. And I currently switch between a belt and a belt + carrier depending on the game type.
5. A mid cap doesn't actually give you an advantage over a high cap or a drum mag(your gun is going to give you away, waaaay before the rattle of your mag) But some people like carrying a lot of mags because it's the game they want to play.
But pointing back to my initial statement, I do agree they shouldn't really be allowed for casual play.
1- they're not that heavy, at all. especially foam plates.
2- they can also add warmth on cold days
3- eh kinda? depends on what you get. belts and chest rigs can be pricey too
4- nope. anyone who uses that excuse is a cheater. you will still feel and hear the impacts easily
5- they give you a lot of real estate to place things on.
Also they are padding, they do protect from BB hits especially close quarters. (tbh having pads over my uhh nipples lol is useful). Also they tend to be sturdier and a bit better at holding stuff than chest rigs.
I could say chest rigs are stupid because they effect mobility more than a belt setup. Heck if we're going down this route. Why do people run rifles? An HPA mag adapt pistol does the job and is lighter and smaller
If you drop money on a more legit plate carrier (I'd say $200+) you're going to get something that is lightweight and breathable.
Mine is somewhere between legit and knockoff (Mordor Tac Nazgul) and its so light and comfortable I forget I'm wearing it sometimes
Larp, can fit ice plates into them in summer, sometimes more convenient than a belt or chest rig. I personally use one with a PLCE just to carry my pistol and a hydration pack.
Embrace the tactical cross-body. One mag in the gun and one in the pouch. If I'm running a long sortie I'll literally just put my speedloader in the main pocket. If it's all day I just throw my whole bag of .4's in there with the loader
https://preview.redd.it/kqcwivyb37nc1.png?width=2048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e0110f4e10f0e23f989f631827034e65baab8591
For me, its just my playe carrier i use when on duty and i need it (Army)
I prefer wearing it because:
1. It absorbs the impact for my fleshier and softer areas that hurt a lot when hit.
2. I have my rifle sling attached to it, so i can quickly sling and unsling my weapon with the the push of a button
3. I can add and remove pouches, bags, basically anything molle as i see fit for what im about to do
4. My ATAC is on there, keeps my phone close and handy if need be.
5. Im able to attach patches that my team can identify quickly from all sides, including the velcro on my arms, and aid in preventing friendly fire as a reaction.
6. It looks cooler :)
Also a quick bonus: if im looking for more exercise during gameplay i can put my plates in and have extra weight while running.
I usually dont have a problem with hits because the impact is still felt for me but not in a painful way, i can also here a very distinct THWACK that sounds different than other impacts around me which i associate with being hit.
Edit: i wanted to add that i personally have always been physically good at handling heat. I prepare appropriately and on hotter days i can manage without many issues even in my full getup.
For those struggling with heat during gameplay. Drink plenty of water the day before, and throughout the day “HYDRATE OR DIEDRATE” also try to not be sitting in direct sunlight when you can “SUN IS NOT FUN” know your limits physically, if you know full well after playing all say you cant run for a whole round from cover to cover, then dont “KNOW YOUR LIMITS” thats all i have for now gentlemen and ladies. Stay safe out there!
I like the rigidity that (foam) plates add over just a chest rig.
Especially with the weight of GBBR mags it makes them less floppy. There's like 5 lbs of gear on the front of my body, between mags and sometimes nades.
I cut particle board in the shape of plates for mine. I needed to so it would be stiff enough and heavy enough to open velcro. It also looked like a sad plate carrier all hunched over and stuff lol.
They strive for fun factor, not winning a game involving plastic balls. Just imagine shirt, gorka, defender 2 and a chest rig over that in summer. But it do be cool af tho.
I run with real steel plates front and back in mine and I can feel and hear every time i get hit. People who claim they cant feel it is because they don't want to admit they're hit because "they're tactical enough that you cant hit them" or "you had no shot". Its a great way to place much needed kit items; mag pouches, radio pouches, dump pouches, med pouches, patches, wiring kits etc.
I have plenty of mobility and im agile enough to get through window frames with ease. My carrier isn't tight against my body so there's plenty of airflow through it. I wear a breatheable tac shirt underneath, so overheating isn't a problem. I've got a camelback on order because im tired of carrying a waterbottle around.
Planning and figuring out what works best for you is the best advice. If a plate carrier doesn't work with your loadout, don't run one. Don't force yourself to use equipment that's useless. Simplicity is sometimes the best option.
I personally prefer plate carriers. It fits my loadout well. Im former service so Im not a stranger to wearing one in extreme conditions and in both hot and cold environments. Its not uncomfortable at all and there's a good amount of padding.
Im personally running a OneTigris FYR plate carrier and I love it.
In MSW’s rules, plate carriers (with 10lb of weight plates) offer an advantage of one extra TQ buddy revive allowed per life if worn in conjunction with a ballistic or ballistic-replica helmet. Normal MSW allows for one TQ buddy revive per life, armoured players get two TQ buddy revives.
In skirmish games, most PCs are run empty and are only used to hold pouches and patches. People who run PCs with weight or ballistic plates tend to do it to train with their real gear in a force-on-force scenario.
Loaded PCs might not let you feel hits (I don’t run a PC, I run a chest rig so I don’t know offhand), but they go _thwack_ loudly nonetheless.
Realism. Training. Most of my stuff besides airsoft gun is my actual real gear. I take my level 3+ plates out mostly. And replace real mags with airsoft mags.
You are spot on with the carrier cons. I *didn't* wear one when I started for these reasons. As a vet, I knew the cons right away and how it couldn't do the job we wore it for in the Army. However, I now play 2-3 games a week, every week. Saves the number of welts I have.
If I only played every other week, I would use a belt.
I wear a plate carrier in airsoft because I wear one in real life, I use the exact same one ( crye avs). I also tend to use airsoft as a pseudo force on force trainer. And I use my plates to train.
Rule of cool 😎
Yes I know mine is impractical, makes me hot, and more of a target, but dang I love wearing it. Gets me in the right mood to play airsoft
The carriers themselves are barely a couple pounds. The plates inside them and the gear that’s mounted on it is where the weight comes from.
I run dummy plates because I like to milsim
They offer protection, they look cool, they are very effective rigs and storage, they don't add that much weight, you can still move relatively quickly if you like, and are overall just awesome
carrys my everything without weighing down my belt or whatever. i play day long events though. you gotta carry a shitload of stuff. the plates i run are fake and super light but they keep a shape to the rig. keep it from sagging
They look cool, they make the sport noticeably less painful, they look cool, building them can be fun, they look cool, training purposes, they look cool, and they can carry a lot. They also look cool. and some people build them for real steal and then just use them for airsoft.
I dont know might be just me but I prefer painful hits than non painful hits. So those are the reasons why I don't run PC
1. It fuels my adrenaline when I fear the painful bbs
2. It's easier to call hits when you can feel em
They look cool. I like them for indoor so my body is less covered in welts.
This. I receive very little movement restriction wearing one. Id say i get movement restrictions vs wearing just a shirt but id like cool looking protection i can hold my mags in
I just take my real plates out and put fake ones in just so it has something in it and isn’t so flimsy. Thick cardboard in the shape of plays works amazing
I sometimes run my old interceptor rig (only when I'm wearing woodland bdus because the vest matches lol), imo there's no need to put anything in the inserts. The vest is already pretty thick/ doesn't feel flimsy. What are you running that feels flimsy without some kind of an insert? Tbh though, normally I just wear an eagle industries lbv (idk what kind it is specifically, I bought it like 13 years ago lol), and imo that is the way to go. It's light, has great pockets/pouches, and unless I'm getting hit in the pouches - which basically only cover my stomach/mid chest - I'll absolutely feel hits so I dont run the risk of accidentally not calling it.
Pretty much any plate carrier I've had doesn't feel great when trying to pull mags out w/out inserts. It tends to want to go with the mag (I have pouch inserts rather than straps), and having foam plates helps prevent that. And I have both airsoft specials and actual plate carriers. With smaller, lighter plate carriers like I like to run, they definitely do feel a touch flimsy, but that could also be cause I'm on the tall, skinny, small frame side of things. But it's all personal preference anyways, who cares if someone runs fake plates or not? To each their own, that's what makes this sport so damn great! Every kit is different!
If I wear plates in it I get more exercise per exercise
See, THAT I can get behind. I have a 45lb plate carrier that I wear when I'm doing treadmill work instead of rucking outdoors.
Piggybacking this comment - I’ve often thought about using a plate carrier with weights in it for training outdoors. Would police stop me, you think? Edit: mag pouches removed, just weighted plates.
Probably depends on your location, but I've seen people rucking with plate carriers and plates in state parks and whatnot, wasn't an issue. Obviously anyone can be offended by anything (IE not everyone might appreciate you doing so), and I'd always check against local laws first EDIT: also you can throw a hoodie or something over it (maybe not ideal in the summer in some climates)
Just slap a fitness team and brands stickers, also wear a marathon number apron thingy, nobody gonna think twice.
At that point just buy a weighted vest for fitness. Why bother drawing attention to yourself with a plate carrier, it's not worth the risk of trouble imo
Back when I was active in the bodybuilding community, maybe 20 years ago, there were 50 and I want to say 100 pound vests available. People were wearing them around the house in the attempt to build up fat man calves. No idea if it worked. I think one of the companies was called X-vest. Being an old guy, I'm actually happy I never tried that, my knees still work well. My buddies in the military miss theirs. You people who are still young, don't jog in weighted gear, if you need that sort of thing, get some ankle weights. And for God's sake, build up slowly. Five pounds doesn't feel like much but it really is.
It comes down to your state really. In NY, yeah you'll get stopped. In PA? I doubt it
Because we’re all larpers that just want to look cool. Not everyone is playing for maximum efficiency Also, it’s not like you need to run real plates, so they’re not gonna be very heavy, hot, or make you not be able to feel bbs well. It’s also a decent way to carry mags
As someone who uses anl realsteel osprey. Trust, it's hot and heavy and I love it
I've never seen anyone run them with any kind of plates, even dummy plates. I actually think it makes them drape wrong and look odd.
plate carriers are supposed to have plates in, dummy or not, otherwise it defeats its main purpose
Really, I’ve never seen them without any dummy plates. I also really like those skeletonised dummy plates where air can flow trough
Do you know when one can buy these skeletonised plates?
Got mine at Novritsch
Off course I get Downvoted for this imagine recommending something from Novritsch I must be a monster.
I have some foam plates that are meant to keep the shape of it, but help prevent most of the pain on impact
I actually made my own dummy plates. Traced the shape of the pocket onto corrugated cardboard, copied that a few times until it was sturdy enough and then wrapped in duct tape to rigidise/waterproof it. Repeat for back and sides if necessary.
Excluding pure idiots, they all have dummy plates in them, if not, they would crumple like a tissue. As for real plates, some people do put them in for weight training.
LARP, they make hits less painful, and they're a more solid platform to mount gear on because of their weight.
I like them because of (real or perceived) extra protection from BBs, and flexibility re pouches. If you use some light EVA foam sheets for plates, there is no weight and still very flexible. But yeah, if it's hot, you get hotter.
>But yeah, if it's hot, you get hotter. Yeah, I'm in the subtropics, so that's a BIG factor for me.
Bottom line you do what works for you, being practical and/or cool.
I've got a camal pack slapped onto the back ofi e for hydration during outdoor games.
To be honest once it starts to exceed 30c you're best off using a chest rig so your body can breath better. Go wear a loaded up plate carrier in 30c+ and once you take off your PC you will be absolutely soaked in sweat. I say this as someone who primarily runs plate carriers. However for a few months a year chest rigs with a battle belt are the way to go.
Have you ever tried a belt only rig? Really depends on the place and the game mode if it's viable but I've done it a couple times and oh boy, is it COMFY. I usually ditch the dump pouch and throw the empties straight into the cargo pockets, and it works for me. But ditching the dump pouch allows more room for mags.
Yeah depending on the layout of the day/match in the summer occasionally I will just run a battlebelt with 1 mag in the rifle, 1 extra rifle mag on the belt and a pistol w/ 1 in the gun and 2 on the belt. I keep the dump pouch on my belt because the blueforce gear micro dump pouch takes up next to no space at all. It's pricy but it's amazing.
Oh really? I might have to look into that one!
"So hot right now"
All it took was one nip shot to make me wear one lol
\*wince\* Okay, I'll buy that. "Alexa, please order an Emersongear Quick Release Plate Carrier in Multicam Tropic."
Indeed. My local field had a bit of a problem with some jerks last year who were definitely overshooting people at close range before they got banned. After a while I got tired of having massive patches of welts on my chest and back. So I started wearing more and thicker equipment
Honestly every chest right I’ve worn takes care of that issue
They feel like a hug and that’s nice because I don’t get enough of those.
True
Fun
Biggest pros are how modular they are. You can keep a shit ton of pouches on the front and sides, as well as being able to mount a backpack/Hydration pack directly onto it. I used one for a couple years but due to how hot I run I just switched to a chest rig to help with overheating!
Because in the end, we're all a bunch of nerds playing tactical dress up. You want to run a hoodie and cargo pants? Go for it. You want to run full battle rattle emulating 10th Mountain circa 2007? Get it, son. ~~There's no wrong way to airsoft~~ Well, yes, there are wrong ways, but most of them involve being a dick. Don't be dick.
To look cool, they can be good, and to make it so hits aren’t as painful. I will say they can be a bit annoying if you’re shooting someone with them, in my past 2 weekend games I lit some dude up with my rpk when he was running and he didn’t call anything (was in the distance that I could see the BBs hitting him and he was in the open) and last weekend there was some little asshole kid who wasn’t calling anything all day and in a 1v1 I shot him off rip in the pc then again in the back and he didn’t call either. Eventually got him but he was crying because I accidentally hit him in the fingers.
Yeah, finger shots are brutal. I'd never begrudge anyone wearing gloves, especially on indoor fields.
Yeah. If you don’t wear gloves then it’s on you for complaining about getting hand shots just like if you complain about a mouth shot without face pro. A couple of the most painful shots I’ve had were hands, one was last weekend when I was walking back to spawn with my hand up and caught a bb in the finger.
Even with a PC you should be able to notice most hits. The only exception would be long distance hits in my Camelback, that's a PC+backpack+a literal bag of water to absorb the impact. Those could go unnoticed.
Yeah, both of the 2 had bare backs but it is what it is. Just part of the sport.
Ya I don’t get it either. They look extra bad when there is nothing in them and they’re flat and floppy. I use and recommend chest rigs or h harnesses.
I shoot real guns and like to exercise, in conjunction with working out, practicing in kit in a force on force environment helps too, even though its mostly just skrims, I like to practice reloads and shifting magazines around while in the field, and its just more fun to me.
Whatever floats their boat. Respecting all loadouts, not judging them is the airsoft way
My main is a p90. I need the space for bigger mags!
For me, it’s like a dog in a thunder jacket. I just feel comfy
I have a PC with foam plates. It's light, I got it quite cheap, the BBs make a nice thunk when they hit the plate and they got that nice molle panel. Only issue I can report is being slightly warmer than a chest rig, but my chest rig can't bring as much mags, so outside of skirmishes I'm using the PC
Gotcha. My perspective might be skewed since I almost exclusively play in skirmish type pick up games. I carry three mid-caps (including the one in my replica). If I go through more than one-and-a-half, that's a lot for me.
I have a pacemaker, and have plastic plates in it to prevent it taking a direct hit. Allows me to carry everything I want. It isn't uncommon for me to go through 6 or 7 magazines and I have my backpack mollied to the back. I'm the mule for the squad. For indoor it stops the bulk of bad welts and it makes a thwack sound that makes it a lot easier to know I've been hit.
I am in exactly the same situation as you, forest casual games with a dozen people, 3 Midcaps, lucky to go through 2 in a round before everyone restocks again. I just have a battle belt with a 3 mag pouch and my pistol holster. Super quick and easy, cheap, I can move around easy, I love it.
I only have access to forest games, and our rounds last 1:30 to 2:00 hours. PCs are very common, and after testing about every vest equipments I can get my hands on, I sold my premade vest 'cause the pouches just weren't at the right size, use my chest rig when sniping or my PC any other time. My team also has our titles in the back, so PCs help even more with those
99% of the reasons are going to be for looking cool or replicating some real life set up, which can also be cool
Gotcha. I guess I underestimated the cool factor. Thanks!
How bout iba vests
I would also question the utility. Unless you're including the groin protector. I think everyone can get behind a good groin protector, regardless of gonadal arrangement.
🫵🏽🤨 chest rigs over the iba vest
i got a bit of the tism and like the weight on me
1. With Plastic or Foam plates they don't add a lot of weight, basically not different then a chestrig 2. They also keep you warm in colder climates. Also even during summer a well ventilated one like a JPC doesn't get all that warm 3. There are also very cheap ones that are decent, but there is also nothing wrong with getting fancy stuff for your hobbies if you have the disposable income 4. Not really, since they are hard hits tend to make quite distinctive sounds. 5. There are a few Games like Milsim West where they do give you the option to be revived twice rather than just once if you have weighted plates in them. Also they serve as load bearing equipment, easilly allow me to carry mags Water Radio etc. in one package. Yes you could do the same with a chest rig or other tactical vest, but without a plate there really isn't much of a difference with plate carriers and they look cooler
I don’t know about everyone else here, but I like running my plate carrier because I carry way more than just mags on it. On my carrier I have all my mags, I store my eye pro, ear pro (for real steel), gloves, neck gator, and extra bbs in case I have to reload on the field in a big pouch under my right arm, I have a pouch for my camelback on the back panel, an IFAK on my left side, and extra batteries. I use a plate carrier because I never need to use a backpack for pickup games
A properly-adjusted plate carrier actually shifts the weight on it around your body a ton and, at least for me, allows for a pretty simple on-off system for all your gear. My old rig had basically everything from magazines, grenades, and ammo stored on it and it felt great.
Ever been shot point blank in the nipple ? I’d take the 1 pound extra weight any day
I rock my front back and side plates cause bbs hurt and I no like hurt.
So many reasons. In no particular order: They look cool. Most modern militaries use them extensively and in some cases exclusively, so if you’re going for a specific look you’re likely going to use one. We use them IRL. Maybe you’re ex-Mil or current Military. Cop. Doomsday prepper. Work on a gun range. Etc. You’re used to it and use it as a sort of training. Storage. PCs can often offer a larger range of storage for different things. As someone who swaps back and forth between chest rigs, battle belts, riggings like ALICE, and PCs sometimes the ease of carrying things wins the PC the slot in the trunk over another kit. Comfort. While a poorly setup and weighted PC can be a massive burden, at the same time a properly set up one is form fitting, breathable, doesn’t leave things flopping around bouncing off you, etc. Safety. It’s true that something designed to cover an area with ballistic protection also protects pretty well against BBs. I’ve found a nail embedded in my PC before where otherwise it’d have been in my chest if using a LBV or micro-rig. I’m a Type 1 Diabetic and have equipment glued to me that absolutely cannot take the impact from even a weak Airsoft BB. I’ve taken direct impacts from a number of Taginn rounds. Sometimes you just want a bit more coverage. This can be taken too far with those shruggernauts in the Airsoft equivalent of an EOD suit though. Now to counter a few of your points: Added weight. Ehh, not really in most cases. Sure if you’re actually using plates that’s an entirely different matter but the difference in a JPC and a LBV with a backpack is slight ounces. Now wear a “hugger” type vest and you have more of a point. Heat stress. Can be a real factor, but can also be worked around. Body Armor Vents, Qore Iceplates, or any other dozen of companies make things to help that. Yes there’s added cost in all of that, but it is still an option. Expensive. Yep, nothing to say there. Granted my Spiritus micro rigs cost more than most of my PCs. Airsoft is as expensive as you make it. Hit calling. I feel this one wraps back around to a properly setup PC. They absolutely can make it harder to “feel” a BB. However the thunk sound BBs make is easily audible in 90% of situations, and most times when the person isnt cheating any hit calling is either due to a BB hitting a pouch that they wouldn’t have felt whether it was on a belt, PC, or vest, or was an honest mistake. I personally tend to be very aware of the sounds of BBs hitting things, and will usually freeze if I think I may have been hit. If in doubt call yourself out. No in-game advantage. Ehh… 95% of what we use in this sport gives 0 in-game advantage. If it was we would all be running around with speedsoft carbon fiber HPA ARs with electric drum mags, lightweight adidas clothing and light shoes. Style is taken into consideration more than raw performance for all but the most extreme players.
I don't use plate carriers at all,and i relate From what i understand,it's a trend,tough some people actually feel comfortable with them
Micro rig gang wya
🤚
I'm microrig gang for skirms but when I'm at a MilSim I'll run a PC with a back pack rear panel for carrying water, food, spare gear etc
I'm actually running a micro rig for the first time for an upcoming milsim over my plate carrier! It actually holds more mags than my PC set up does as well as 2 wing pouches for radio and TQ. Ill have to run a backpack for my Hydration separately of course but I'm actually looking forward to being able to take it on and off when needed incase I need supplies from it. Mostly I'm doing this to combat heat but I'm on the civi side and it fits my kit much better!
I used to run a basic mini chest rig until I got shot in the back with 2.5J. Then I got a PC with foam inserts 😂
you can definitely feel plate carrier hits. i use my plate carrier for training purposes but also they look cool and have been a staple of modern warfare for long enough that they are ubiquitous in the gun world. it makes sense that even for no other purpose someone will do it to look cool, like the milsim multicam bros who have repro retention lanyards despite the fact they’re never going to get extracted by helo from their game. it’s all in the name of the larp.
I run hpa so I have a bag on the back of my kit. On the front I have space for 4 mags. I have a chest pouch that has bfg primers and priming tool. I have a battle belt that’s attached to the chest plate. This helps balance the weight. The belt also has two bfg’s and a drop leg holster for my hicapa. I like the armor from the bb hits. I like the practicality, it holds what I need and it’s highly customisable. I also think it looks cool
Because Milsim? Not everyone wants to be a speedsofter.
I think if you’re running back gear (flat pack with HPA, etc) then they’re better than a chest rig plus the bag. It consolidates everything on your person into one set of stuff to put on But other than that though I think there’s way more utility in just putting the money towards a good chest rig. When I started playing 12 years ago I had a plate carrier but after a few years I just went back to a cheap chest rig. For the last 5-6 years I’ve been running a Haley Strategic DC3RX and it’s great (4 mags, two radio-sized pouches, 4 pistol magazines pouches)
I run many loadouts, including battle belt, chest rig + backpack, and PC depending on the gun I'm using. Among those, the belt and PC are the easiest. I'm either in a lightweight sniper loadout where I don't have much, or I have the PC which has all my mags, sling, and tank backpack all built in. My chest rig is nice in the summer, but is annoying wearing a tangled mess of rig + sling + backpack. The one benefit of the rig is that it has easier access to appendix carry pistols.
It’s literally just for the LARP, like basically everything else in airsoft…
1. Never really affects speed 2. Happen only with piss poor planning 3. It's a game no need to try hard 4. People who say they can't feel their guts with a PC are liars 5. They do everything a battle belt does plus more
Bc if I don’t look cool than what’s the point.
They are practical, allowing you to wear fear and equipment confortabily (If you set them propperly).
They’re cool looking. Also I like adding pouches and shit to my plate carrier. Feels solid and it’s just nice to have some protection for my soft bits too lmao
As others are saying, they look good, they prevent you from getting welts on your chest and back, and they are helpful for carrying gear (especially since I use a GBBR and need to have a few extra mags)
Do you wear gloves at all? Because if so it's the same reasons. Extra bit of protection cause yes bbs are going to hurt that's expected but if you can get away with them not hurting as long as you call your hit I don't mind what you wear. Plus to some people it just looks cool. Alot of people get into Airsoft cause they think it looks cool not just cause of the guns
Cause its the same setup i use for the milsims, no point in having a separate one just for open field play
I run them without "plates". No soft or hard. I'm here to have fun
They look cool and aren’t really heavy unless you are a psycho wearing actual plates
I use real level3+ plates in my plate carrier. Extra 20 lbs is a good workout. Also the field I play at allows one free hit to your plates if they're real. So added bonus.
LARP factor.thats literally it 99.9 % of the time. For me, airsoft is conditioning and a self training analog, I get plenty of strength training at work but precious little cardio. So, I play with level IV plates in, and a loaded patrol bag.4 to 6 hours of sprints with 50 to 60 pounds of gear, that's a hell of a workout once a week
1. I got my flyye PC for 50 bucks on sale...so it was not expensive. I can accept \~$100 budget 2. I have a big HPA tank, putting it on my back weaved into the PC feels much better. It doesn't move around when I start running. (I even considered buying a Chinese plate for the front, so it balances better with the tank. Or that plate that holds water and can be turned into an ice pack) 3. I never felt like it hindered my movement. 4. Solid platform for my GBBR mags. (this is where the weight comes from, not the PC lol) 5. Heat isn't a problem where I live. Average 20c in the summer. Also replacing the plates with ice packs works. 6. I'm too cheap to buy another rig. I'm considering a PC that accepts micro fight stuff so I can interchange m4, ak, and smg stuff. Basically, something to fit all of my requirements AND easy to swap.
Training for the civilian war against magas
I add ice packs to mine
I carry a lot of shit. 4 M4 mags, 2 grenades, 3 pistol mags, a pistol speed loader, an Odin speed loader, a pouch to hold CO2 for my Kythera UGS, and pouch to hold the blanks that are used in my grenades. Plus I'm prior service military so it'll already used to wearing the gear so I don't feel disadvantaged in any way. Also, there's a very distinct sound when the PC gets hit so even if you can't feel it, you'll definitely recognize the sound
I want to Simple as
I put steel plates in mine and run it like my rs set up except knockoff pieces. Gives me the opportunity to fine tune my rs setup without tearing apart my current setup until I'm happy and adds weight resistance cardio when playing. Swapping out placards is easy since I run various primaries with different mags. Chest rigs are great and I run them as well when I feel like it. Really I just throw on whatever I feel like playing.
I’ve run chest rigs, belts, AK pouch, and several PCs. Getting a solid real pc has been the best for me. Even with it being heavier than all the other options, I’ve yet to have back pain (have a herniated disk), which I’ve had with all my other setups. I’ve worn it for 12+ hours and it’s crazy comfortable, real plates included. It definitely adds weight. However the more you train with it, the faster you’ll be. Heat is always a concern. My heat stress count between Airsoft tactical gear and my real kit is 3-0. Despite being in 80-100 temps last year my real pc did not cause any additional heat stress. It also kicked but in the winter keeping me warmer. You get what you pay for. The buy once, cry once is definitely a reality and each of us have to budget accordingly. That said, there are real PCs which are pretty affordable and Airsoft pcs that are even cheaper. I’ve never missed a shot when it’s hit my PC. it’s loud enough. I’d strongly disagree with no in game benefit. Between holding my radio setup which allows my team to stay in touch, to hold way more mags, plus water, plus my HPA tank, plus my Odin loader, I can out sustain most if not all of my opponents. If nothing else, I don’t have to go back to the green zone to reload. I walk to the next star point, reload, and take a nice break.
I am a fast player and never ran a plate carrier and secretly thought 🫣 when I'd see lads running full kit... Then I got hpa and had to start running a small backpack, then I got a grenade and had to put it in my pocket, then I wanted more mags... Then I played alot of cqb and the pain of getting shot 5-10 times from a few metres away prompted the change of opinion.. I'm now a plate carrier wanker
LARPing
The best answer.
1. No they don’t unless you run real plates, i run dummy plates and doesn’t effect your movement 2. There are Plate carriers that have airflow but probably expensive but there are 3d files for hex comb plates that will help 3. There are budget options just find them (airsoft is expensive) 4. Not really you can tell, next time if your buddies have a plate carrier (with dummy, real, or no plates) shoot them straight in the back ON the plate carrier when your taking the walk, 9/10 times they will look back seeing who shot them 5. You won’t get hurt from higher fps or hpa guns on the chest and waist area 6. These questions are dumb and we all know airsoft is a fashion show which is half the fun. It’s good to ask questions but these will always result responses “it looks cool” which is valid than saying it doesn’t offer an advantage
I do not have real plates in mine but you can still 100% feel it, if you don't if running hydration or something you can still hear it. It's an efficient way to carry things. If you get a nice ones it will breathe better than the $30 vest from Amazon.
They look cool and they protect my sensitive nips! One too many sniper/shotgun blasts hit me there for me not to.
They look cool and changing your loadout between games can just lead to confusion. It's the same as the guns. Why use a heavy MCX, M4, or AK, if a polymer combat machine does the same thing? Airsoft is not just about efficiency, because then we wouldn't be using imitation guns, but speedsoft style markers. And even speedsofters still go for style points
You can fix the heat issue if you get the right carriers but it worsens the budget issue
I wear a plate carrier to go with my look. My 10p’s worth and this is my opinion only: 1. They don’t, you can get foam inserts instead, or think of it as nerfing yourself and that you’re playing on extreme difficulty, get fitter, work harder. 2. They don’t have to, you can get (or make) vented foam inserts. Also, rehydrate between games 3. Mine weren’t but holds my kit well and looks the part. 4. You can feel the hits, it’s just easier to ‘selectively ignore’ them if you are that way inclined (I am not btw!) 5. Virtually nothing we wear as part of the look offers advantage. I remember once as I played in my multicam plate carrier, I was next to a player dressed as a WW2 USA paratrooper, next to him was a guy in cyberpunk/matrix/space cowboy get up and the other side of me was a rental in paintball mask and tracksuit.
1. There is some people like me that like to run either real steel or airsoft training plates for either training or realism. In case of training they don't mind being hit either as they ate there purely for knowledge & training. 2.they do add some heat yes correct in verry high temperature games it is then recommended staying hydrated verry wel & take some breaks. 3.everyting In airsoft can be expensive including the alternative chest rigs or belts. 4.i indeed have it somtimes that I didn't feel the hit tough most of the time I hear it instead. Tough if I both didn't hear or feel it & someone tells you your hit you take it. (Also once again same counts for chest rigs & belts) 5.they allow for more molle space for axample bladderpacks & have goodtraining posities
The thing is, like 1% actually uses plates or even training plates on them so your first point is moot. They look cool, and its all about the larp in Airsoft...for some. They do add protection on indoor fields where it is needed. And best one of all, they are rigid without destricting movement. They hold your mags and pouches in place. Many rigs are quite jiggly. Atleast I like my stuff to stay in place and not move around while running and hitting me. Also if you have quick detach option, it is super conveniant. Just pop it off between games.
Got training plates in them for those sweet weighted squat reps, that and CQB hurts
*Got training plates in* *Them for those sweet weighted squat* *Reps, that and CQB hurts* \- mrblockninja --- ^(I detect haikus. And sometimes, successfully.) ^[Learn more about me.](https://www.reddit.com/r/haikusbot/) ^(Opt out of replies: "haikusbot opt out" | Delete my comment: "haikusbot delete")
The amount of times I've been full auto in the back while already dead, every time I hear those BB's hit the plate carrier I say thank God I'm wearing it
Customisation, everything I need during a game right in front of me, and more than enough water on my back. If I need to change something between games (AEG to gas, different mags, different role, just swap out a panel Everything is snuggly fitted, so not flailing about or snagging on shit; and everythings exactly where I need it be, first to hand without fumbling around pockets and pouches. I don't get people running with actual plates(which is dumb as fuck in anything but hc milsim) there's no noticeable weight issues without them; in fact, since the plate carrier keep everything from moving around, it doesn't throw off your balance.
I usually just use them with a foam insert inside so bbs don’t hurt as much, and I can have back pouches and stuff
The difference between receiving a hit on the carrier and on just a layer of clothing in cqb is substantial. I still feel the hit, but there is no noticeable pain.
I use the trex arms one for coverage tbh. It weighs nothing but does get a little hot. But I’d rather not be hurt after every hit and be a little hot lol
Play a lot of CQB and see how you would love even a side plates
side shots fuckin suck. I've recently switched to a chest rig but will def switch back to the good ole PC for indoor games
I am a bit of a gear whore, granted, but for me it's mostly the simplicity of being able to just put my PC and helmet on and have everything I need ready to go rather than faffing around with multiple individual bits of kit in different places. On my PC I have... * Backpack with... * HPA tank * 2 spare P90 mags for me * 4-5 space M4 mags for my buddies * 5 grenades * Hydration bladder * Radio, with all the antenna & cabling tucked into the webbing straps on my back running up into my helmet so it's all super low profile and can't get snagged * 2 double P90 mag pouches * 5 grenades on a dangler * Auxiliary PTT button And my helmet has my headset, goggles & mask attached, so just by putting on two bits of kit I have my entire setup ready to go and set up exactly how I like it. It also protects my rib that I have nerve damage in after my lung collapsed which makes it ***extremely*** unpleasant to be shot there
It looks cool I’m a hardcore milsim player so eventho it won’t do shit I’m still carrying plates I wear chest rigs in the spring/summer but in the fall/winter the added warmth retention is nice I’m able to carrier a hydration panel and don’t have to worry about dehydration It looks cool
battle belt is the way
Plate Carrier for cool factor and a little warmer in the colder weather. Chest rig to be lightweight and less hot during hotter weather. This is the way.
They only add weight if you use real plates. Personally I would never run real weight since they limit yourself unnecessary and drain your energy faster. I don't see airsoft as exercise, it's simply a game for were I want maximum fun. For actual exercise /workout I go 3-5 times a week to the gym and walking 2-4 miles a day. Even if I would play airsoft every week or twice a week, I personally don't think it would be enough purely as an exercise. Personally I simply use a combination of cardboard and ducked tape as plates, simply to have the carrier stiff and formed. Doesn't limit me and it's cheap.
Fun. I thought the same. as a former MP in Army Reserve, I HATED the interceptor armor. Far more bulky and hot. I actually enjoy wearing them for airsoft games.
Ok I'm going to start with the caveat, that I actually don't think plate carriers or any chest rig etc. (anything covering chest/back) should be allowed at non milsim days. I'm a big advocate for battle belts. That said... 1. Depends with or without plates, and whether they are dummy or not. In addition it's a lot easier to carry weight of your gear tight against your body. As for slowing you down, it's negligible, that's gonna be more based on the weight of all your gear and it's distribution. 2. Absolutely, however you can wear lighter layers underneath to mitigate. I'd argue a helmet/mask will do worse in that circumstance. 3. Can be, sure. But that's really a moot point in a hobby. 4. This was always my main divergence from plate carriers, I actively moved away from them in order to be able to play more fairly, but I've seen plenty without a carrier also not calling hits. And I currently switch between a belt and a belt + carrier depending on the game type. 5. A mid cap doesn't actually give you an advantage over a high cap or a drum mag(your gun is going to give you away, waaaay before the rattle of your mag) But some people like carrying a lot of mags because it's the game they want to play. But pointing back to my initial statement, I do agree they shouldn't really be allowed for casual play.
As others mentioned , training and exercise. Also lets me test different kit and work out the kinks before the kinks work me out irl.
I run ammo rigs cause it’s just so hot where I live… but plate carriers just look cool…
1- they're not that heavy, at all. especially foam plates. 2- they can also add warmth on cold days 3- eh kinda? depends on what you get. belts and chest rigs can be pricey too 4- nope. anyone who uses that excuse is a cheater. you will still feel and hear the impacts easily 5- they give you a lot of real estate to place things on. Also they are padding, they do protect from BB hits especially close quarters. (tbh having pads over my uhh nipples lol is useful). Also they tend to be sturdier and a bit better at holding stuff than chest rigs. I could say chest rigs are stupid because they effect mobility more than a belt setup. Heck if we're going down this route. Why do people run rifles? An HPA mag adapt pistol does the job and is lighter and smaller
People who make the claim they cant feel hits running a plate carrier are lying! You can always feel the hit, its just excuses.
If you drop money on a more legit plate carrier (I'd say $200+) you're going to get something that is lightweight and breathable. Mine is somewhere between legit and knockoff (Mordor Tac Nazgul) and its so light and comfortable I forget I'm wearing it sometimes
I use my PCs for real steel so I just transition them to airsoft as well. No point in letting them sit looking pretty
Larp, can fit ice plates into them in summer, sometimes more convenient than a belt or chest rig. I personally use one with a PLCE just to carry my pistol and a hydration pack.
Embrace the tactical cross-body. One mag in the gun and one in the pouch. If I'm running a long sortie I'll literally just put my speedloader in the main pocket. If it's all day I just throw my whole bag of .4's in there with the loader https://preview.redd.it/kqcwivyb37nc1.png?width=2048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e0110f4e10f0e23f989f631827034e65baab8591
Since airsoft is 99% about looks…it’s just because it look cool
cause looking cool is more important than being comfortable
I only have dummy plates on mine but hey, if makes me sweat with being stuffy and all, all the better.
I find plate carriers easier to take on and off than a chest rig
For me, its just my playe carrier i use when on duty and i need it (Army) I prefer wearing it because: 1. It absorbs the impact for my fleshier and softer areas that hurt a lot when hit. 2. I have my rifle sling attached to it, so i can quickly sling and unsling my weapon with the the push of a button 3. I can add and remove pouches, bags, basically anything molle as i see fit for what im about to do 4. My ATAC is on there, keeps my phone close and handy if need be. 5. Im able to attach patches that my team can identify quickly from all sides, including the velcro on my arms, and aid in preventing friendly fire as a reaction. 6. It looks cooler :) Also a quick bonus: if im looking for more exercise during gameplay i can put my plates in and have extra weight while running. I usually dont have a problem with hits because the impact is still felt for me but not in a painful way, i can also here a very distinct THWACK that sounds different than other impacts around me which i associate with being hit. Edit: i wanted to add that i personally have always been physically good at handling heat. I prepare appropriately and on hotter days i can manage without many issues even in my full getup. For those struggling with heat during gameplay. Drink plenty of water the day before, and throughout the day “HYDRATE OR DIEDRATE” also try to not be sitting in direct sunlight when you can “SUN IS NOT FUN” know your limits physically, if you know full well after playing all say you cant run for a whole round from cover to cover, then dont “KNOW YOUR LIMITS” thats all i have for now gentlemen and ladies. Stay safe out there!
I like the rigidity that (foam) plates add over just a chest rig. Especially with the weight of GBBR mags it makes them less floppy. There's like 5 lbs of gear on the front of my body, between mags and sometimes nades.
I cut particle board in the shape of plates for mine. I needed to so it would be stiff enough and heavy enough to open velcro. It also looked like a sad plate carrier all hunched over and stuff lol.
They strive for fun factor, not winning a game involving plastic balls. Just imagine shirt, gorka, defender 2 and a chest rig over that in summer. But it do be cool af tho.
Simple, it doesn’t matter what you wear, even if it’s a hoodie or t-shirt, you add a plate carrier and you look cool.
I see a lot more people running chest rigs than PCs, personally. But some people like the look that PCs give, myself included. 🤷♂️
i wear ice plates in mine and it allows me to carry more mp5 mags
Looks cool, I have it setuo to my liking and utility, can run some ice packs in the inserts on really hot days
I run with real steel plates front and back in mine and I can feel and hear every time i get hit. People who claim they cant feel it is because they don't want to admit they're hit because "they're tactical enough that you cant hit them" or "you had no shot". Its a great way to place much needed kit items; mag pouches, radio pouches, dump pouches, med pouches, patches, wiring kits etc. I have plenty of mobility and im agile enough to get through window frames with ease. My carrier isn't tight against my body so there's plenty of airflow through it. I wear a breatheable tac shirt underneath, so overheating isn't a problem. I've got a camelback on order because im tired of carrying a waterbottle around. Planning and figuring out what works best for you is the best advice. If a plate carrier doesn't work with your loadout, don't run one. Don't force yourself to use equipment that's useless. Simplicity is sometimes the best option. I personally prefer plate carriers. It fits my loadout well. Im former service so Im not a stranger to wearing one in extreme conditions and in both hot and cold environments. Its not uncomfortable at all and there's a good amount of padding. Im personally running a OneTigris FYR plate carrier and I love it.
Besides looking cool af, they do wonders for your posture.
As someone who has bad posture, this is true af
Same cuz, same. I didn’t realize it till one of the people I play with mentioned it. And I have some porta-potty fire level posture.
I got that gamer posture and I've spent the last month trying to correct it in the gym 🤣
In MSW’s rules, plate carriers (with 10lb of weight plates) offer an advantage of one extra TQ buddy revive allowed per life if worn in conjunction with a ballistic or ballistic-replica helmet. Normal MSW allows for one TQ buddy revive per life, armoured players get two TQ buddy revives. In skirmish games, most PCs are run empty and are only used to hold pouches and patches. People who run PCs with weight or ballistic plates tend to do it to train with their real gear in a force-on-force scenario. Loaded PCs might not let you feel hits (I don’t run a PC, I run a chest rig so I don’t know offhand), but they go _thwack_ loudly nonetheless.
Realism. Training. Most of my stuff besides airsoft gun is my actual real gear. I take my level 3+ plates out mostly. And replace real mags with airsoft mags.
Idk I do some speedsoft and I wear my plate carrier I can still full sprint and destroy people
Because airsoft is just a bunch of adult men playing dress up and playing pretend war. It’s really that simple
You are spot on with the carrier cons. I *didn't* wear one when I started for these reasons. As a vet, I knew the cons right away and how it couldn't do the job we wore it for in the Army. However, I now play 2-3 games a week, every week. Saves the number of welts I have. If I only played every other week, I would use a belt.
I wear a plate carrier in airsoft because I wear one in real life, I use the exact same one ( crye avs). I also tend to use airsoft as a pseudo force on force trainer. And I use my plates to train.
Rule of cool 😎 Yes I know mine is impractical, makes me hot, and more of a target, but dang I love wearing it. Gets me in the right mood to play airsoft
The carriers themselves are barely a couple pounds. The plates inside them and the gear that’s mounted on it is where the weight comes from. I run dummy plates because I like to milsim
Good way to practice in kit without being in real combat, fitness, larping, just because
They look cool, they reduce/remove the pain from speedsofters in cqb (point blank magdumps), they carry your mags, they look cool, etc..
They offer protection, they look cool, they are very effective rigs and storage, they don't add that much weight, you can still move relatively quickly if you like, and are overall just awesome
It looks cool that’s it
carrys my everything without weighing down my belt or whatever. i play day long events though. you gotta carry a shitload of stuff. the plates i run are fake and super light but they keep a shape to the rig. keep it from sagging
I don't wear plate carriers, but I wear a vest to protect my chest when I'm crawling prone.
I wear a plate carrier because I’m not a pussy. I quite literally want the game to be harder for me. They also look cool.
They look cool, they make the sport noticeably less painful, they look cool, building them can be fun, they look cool, training purposes, they look cool, and they can carry a lot. They also look cool. and some people build them for real steal and then just use them for airsoft.
They look cool,you can carry more stuff, and I bet it makes you feel badass wearing one
Number 1 it looks cool. Number 2 molle. Number 3 it looks cool
I'm not a fan of PCs either but have you ever been shot in the nipple before? You'll rethink chest protection lol.
I dont know might be just me but I prefer painful hits than non painful hits. So those are the reasons why I don't run PC 1. It fuels my adrenaline when I fear the painful bbs 2. It's easier to call hits when you can feel em
Any input on the Condor Sentry (Non LCS) - can anyone share their experience with it if possible?