9 Best Plate Carriers (Complete List)

Looking for the best plate carriers available? Thankfully we live in the golden age of firearms and gear, and plate carriers have come a long way.

With so many options, I have compiled a list of the best plate carriers on the market.

So no matter your situation or environment, you can pick the best option.

This post will cover the best plate carriers available. 

Best Plate Carriers

Here is the list of the best plate carriers that I recommend. These are great options and are better than any standard-issue plate carrier in the military.

Also, they are all similarly priced. It doesn’t matter if you are running a 5.56, 7.62×39, or 308 platform rifle, all of this will accommodate those cailbers and rifles. These plate carriers will work for pistol-caliber carbines as well.

1. Crye Precision JPC 2.0

The Crye Precision JPC 2.0 is a lightweight, minimal armor vest that is designed for maximum mobility, weight savings, and packability.

At just over one pound for the entire carrier, the JPC 2.0 offers a variety of configuration options to suit an operator’s needs in terms of protection, modularity, and comfort.

All AVS detachable front flaps are compatible. It features a skeletal cummerbund system with an integrated attachment system that allows pouches to be mounted inside and outside of the cummerbund.

This system sheds unnecessary weight and bulk while improving overall ventilation.

These are made in seven different colors and camo patterns. I especially like how the shoulder straps are thin. This allows you to shoulder the butt stock of your rifle better.

The downside of these straps is that they might feel uncomfortable because of having less padding. You can always purchase extra pads separate that do not interfere with shouldering your rifle.

One of the main upgrades on the 2.0 compared to the original JPC is the zippered back panels. The modularity of this tactical plate carrier is great.

The main reasons that make the Crye JPC 2.0 one of the best plate carriers are quality, durability, weight, and modularity.

If you wish to view the Operators Manual and the Spec Sheet, I have linked them both.

Features:

• Easy 2-step emergency doffing capability
• Hidden vertical webbing loops on the front carrier supports detachable chest rigs
• High-performance stretch material that allows for plates of varying thickness
• VELCRO^® brand panel on the front of the carrier allows a detachable MOLLE or mag pouch front flap
• Zippers along the sides of the back carrier for zip-on panels
• Low-profile cummerbund attachment that provides maximum adjustability and allows for chest expansion as needed
• Webbing loops on the back of the shoulder straps to support back panels
• Drag handle that supports up to 400 lbs.

Plate Sizing Info:

Standard/SAPI

Small Plate:	11.75” x 8.75”
Medium Plate:	12.5” x 9.5”
Large Plate:	13.25” x 10.5”
XLarge Plate:	14” x 11.25”

NOTE: If your plate dimensions are between sizes, or if your plates’ thickness exceeds 1.25″, we recommend sizing up to the next size.

Click Here to check the current prices of the Crye Precision JPC 2.0

2. Spiritus Systems LV-119

The Spiritus Systems LV-119 is one of the most advanced and modular tactical plate carriers.

This tactical plate carrier must be pieced together, and you must purchase all the parts individually. So if you want a complete setup ready to go, this isn’t the plate carrier for you.

Now, if you like the idea of having a very modular setup and something you can customize to your preference, then this is the best option for you.

The best thing about this plate carrier is its lightweight, comfortable, and customizability.

The overall quality and durability are great, and this is one of the most comfortable plate carriers I have ever used.

I like the placard system, and you can quickly and easily attach different pouches with the two clips and velcro.

The LV-119 is a low-profile minimalistic design. And that makes it one of the most comfortable plate carriers on the market. There are also hidden pockets where you can hook up your radio system and wiring and all that stuff.

The downside to this tactical plate carrier is that you must purchase all the parts individually. You will need a front bag, rear bag, and cummerbund for the complete setup. You can only use Spiritus System parts on this carrier, it is incompatible with other manufacturers.

That said, it makes the system extremely modular and allows you to purchase the components you want and customize your setup.

Plate Fitment:

The carrier was designed to fit United States Standard Issue SAPI cut plates, but it will fit other cuts as long as they fit within the specifications listed below. The bags were built to accommodate “thicker” plates, but they will not fit plates that do not fall within the measurements listed.

• Medium -10″ x 12.5″
• Large – 10.25″ x 13.25″
• Extra Large- 11″ x 14.00″
• Thickness – MAXIMUM of 1.20″

Click Here for the cummerbund installation quick start guide.

NOTE: The LV119 Front Plate Bag is part of the LV119 Plate Carrier System. This item does not include a Rear Plate Bag, Cummerbund, Shoulder Covers, Placards, or other accessories. Additional components are required for the proper use and must be purchased individually.

Click Here to check the current prices of the Spiritus Systems LV-119

3. Ferro Concepts Slickster

What I like about this tactical plate carrier is how simple it is. It’s not modular like other carriers, but its simplicity is great.

It is comfortable to wear for extended periods and is fairly priced.

If you want a good quality plate carrier that works and isn’t too fancy, then the Ferro Concepts Slickster is a perfect choice.

4. Ferro Concepts FCPC V5

The Ferro Concepts FCPC V5 was designed with simplicity in mind without sacrificing functionality or features required for the undertaking.

It has a 500D Cordura laminate that was created to take serious abuse in real-world environments. It is purposefully used to replace conventional materials and construction, allowing us to save weight and increase durability where needed.

Tweave Durastretch panels to allow a wider range of armor plate fitment and retention.

Integrated into the rear plate pocket, the zip-on back panel system allows quick and easy swap-out of ADAPT back panels. Laser-cut MOLLE rows remain for existing compatible products.

Building upon our pioneered concealed front flap attachment system, the updated front plate pocket contains concealed G-hook attachment points and provides low-profile integration of all ADAPT front flaps.

For optimal fit and function, the shoulder straps were designed to enable the user to customize the carrier to their preference with strap hardware that can be swapped from side to side and other forms of preferred fastening.

For heightened mission efficiency and situational awareness, the built-in full-width admin pocket is accompanied by a laser-cut MOLLE panel to integrate modern mobile device platforms (such as ATAK) and associated accessories.

Features:

• SIZE MEDIUM – MEDIUM PLATE (10”x12“x1”) Weight: 15.2 OZ
• SIZE LARGE – LARGE PLATE (10.75”x12.75“x1”) Weight: 15.8 OZ

Front Plate Bag:

• Strap hardware can be swapped to the desired side
• Includes one mini Cobra buckle
• Includes one welded steel ring
• Additional strap hardware is sold separately
• Full-width chest administration pouch
• Hidden G-Hook front flaps attachment points for Ferro Concepts front flaps
• Laser-cut laminate MOLLE on the chest with Velcro
• Vertical laser cut slots allow accessory attachment
• Velcro comm routing loops -Loop Velcro for cummerbund attachment
• Accommodates multiple plate dimensions with Tweave stretch plate pocket
• Velcro plate pocket closure

Rear Plate Bag:

• Laser cut laminate MOLLE
• Side zippers for Ferro Concepts Back Panels
• Velcro cummerbund attachment under cummerbund flap
• Elastic comm routing loops
• Accommodates multiple plate dimensions with Tweave stretch plate pocket
• Velcro plate pocket closure
• Compatible with all Ferro Concepts plate carrier accessories and components
• Mission adaptable
• Made from 500D cordura and 500D Laminate
• Made in the USA
• Berry compliant
• Weight: Medium – 15.2 OZ
• Weight: Large – 15.8 OZ

Note: It does not come with a cummerbund

Click Here to check out the current prices of the Ferro Concepts FCPC V5

RELATED ARTICLES

• Best Body Armor (Complete List)
• Plate Carrier Setup (Complete Guide)

5. Shellback Tactical Banshee Elite 3.0

The Shellback Tactical Banshee Elite 3.0 is the third evolution of the Banshee Elite plate carrier. The Banshee Elite 3.0 plate carrier is packed with upgrades such as quick-release cummerbund buckles, laser-cut Molle, and an extendable drag handle.

The new laser-cut Molle design is located on the front, rear, and cummerbund, reducing carrier weight and increasing durability.

The new quick-release cummerbund buckles allow you to quickly don and doff your carrier and eliminate the hassle of dealing with traditional hook and loop cummerbund closures.

The new drag handle extends to 34 inches, allowing extra leverage when removing a casualty on the battlefield. The Banshee Elite 3.0 Plate Carrier is proudly made in the USA and backed by a lifetime warranty.

The Shellback Tactical Banshee plate carrier is built for 10×12 body armor plates, which means that this carrier is compatible with most of our Level 4 and Level 3 body armor plates.

It has a lot of Molle webbing so that you can place different pouches. The pouch on the top middle torso is very convenient and can carry many items.

Plate placement is easy to install and remove. The plate carrier is easy to adjust for any to most sizes. It is durable, and the padding on the shoulders is a great help in comfort.

This is a great option if you are looking for a larger plate carrier with lots of space.

Features:

• Laser cut Molle platform on front, rear, and cummerbund reduces weight and adds durability.
• Two quick-release cummerbund buckles to quickly don and doff plate carrier
• The rear drag handle extends up to 34 inches in length
• Constructed of durable 500 denier Cordura nylon
• Plate pockets load from the bottom hold 10 x 12 shooter or SAPI cut plates
• Two Shoulder buckles allow quick adjustments to raise or lower the plate carrier for the perfect fit
• 3D Spacer mesh padding on the front, rear, and shoulder pads for ventilation and comfort
• Cummerbund features 6 integrated M4 magazine pockets
• Cummerbund features two pockets to insert Banshee Elite 3.0 soft armor panels
• Cummerbund features interior laser-cut Molle panels to attach side armor plate pockets
• Front zipper admin pouch for small field gear such as notepads, pens, and multitools
• The rear hydration pocket holds a 2L hydration bladder
• Integrated nylon vertical strips to accommodate QASM buckles for chest rigs
• Loop panels on front and rear for ID placards
• Lifetime warranty
• Made in the USA
• Berry Compliant

Sizing:

• Plate pockets load from the bottom and accept up to 10 x 12 shooter or SAPI cut plates
• 2 Shoulder buckles allow for quick adjustment to raise or lower plate carrier for the perfect fit
• Cummerbund comes in 2 sizes
  • Small/Medium – 32 inches to 39 inches
  • Large/X-Large – 39 inches to 46 inches
• How to Select a Size
  • Measure the circumference of your body where the bottom of your plate would sit on your torso
  • Take the measurement and add 2 inches to get your final measurement
  • Use your final measurement to select from the sizing chart above

Click Here to check out the current prices of the Shellback Tactical Banshee Elite 3.0

6. LBT 6094 G3

This is a very light plate carrier, considering the size. It is large enough for the essentials and will have extra room for additional gear.

The LBT 6094 G3 is very well built with attention to detail. It is durable and will last you a very long time.

If you want a mid-size plate carrier that is still minimalist, then this is what I suggest.

7. TRYBE Tactical Laser-Cut

8. Chase Tactical LOPC

9. AR500 Armor Invictus

The AR500 Invictus plate carrier from the Armored Republic is tough as nails but nimble and low-profile for vehicle-based and CQB operations.

The Invictus has been jump-tested by US Special Operations personnel, demonstrating its ability to provide high mobility without sacrificing protection and comfort for the wearer.

It accepts all 10” x 12” plates and is laser-cut from laminated Nylon. The Hypalon shoulder straps and pull tabs are low profile and secure.

Cut from the same laminated Nylon, the cummerbund gives you a customized fit and can accommodate our padded side plate pouches.

Finally, the plate carrier and cummerbund feature generous PALS webbing for all MOLLE-compatible pouches and accessories – giving you extra space to keep extra magazines, a medical kit, or a general access pouch close at hand.

Specs:

• Material: 500D Nylon
• Supported Plate Size: 10”x12”
• Size: For body, types M to XXL
• Weight: 1.3 lbs
• Features: Velcro web sections for ID panels; Swift Clip rig compatible
• Manufactured: Vietnam (Armored Republic)

Click Here to check out the current prices of the AR500 Invictus

Purpose Of A Plate Carrier

The plate carrier’s primary purpose is to carry your armor plates hence the name. They are also good for carrying the rest of your fighting gear and combat loadout.

Medical supplies, additional magazines, knives, water, radios, and other items can be securely stored on plate carriers.

Be careful not to get too carried away and only have what items are necessary. All of this stuff adds up quickly and will weigh you down.

Recently, plate carriers have become more minimalist and limit your space so you only can have what you need on your person.

Also, plate carriers are just one part of your complete setup. A battle belt should also be used in conjunction with a plate carrier. You can even have an assault pack full of extra gear that can easily be dropped when the shooting starts.

Plate Carrier VS Chest Rig

Chest rigs offer more mobility and are lighter, but they offer no ballistic protection. If you don’t need armor, I recommend having a chest rig.

Ideally, it is good to have both. Training at the range with both setups is the best.

Many of the plate carriers mentioned above will have panels that can be interchanged with chest rigs. This is good for saving money on gear, and you can just swap your magazine panel back and forth.

Best Plate Carrier FAQ

What Plate Carrier Is The Best?

There is no one size fits all plate carrier, and it comes down to personal preference. With that being said, the Crye JPC 2.0 and the Spiritus Systems LV-119 are the two I like the best.

What Plate Carrier Do The Navy Seals Use?

The plate carrier most often seen on the Navy Seals is the Crye Precision AVS, although JPCs, slick carriers, and chest rigs have also been used.

Does The Military Use Level 4 Armor?

NATO military forces normally wear level IV armor. Level IV defeats AP bullets fired from military-grade weapons. It’s going to be more expensive and heavier than Level III.

Is There Level 5 Body Armor?

Level IV is the highest rating of personal body armor so far. There is no such thing as Level V body armor now, but I foresee Level 5 body armor in the future as technology is constantly improving.

Can Civilians Own Body Armor?

As of my writing, all civilians can legally own body armor. Felons cannot own body armor, and some states restrict it. Always know your local laws before buying body armor.

(Click the links for the most up-to-date prices)

• Crye Precision JPC 2.0
• Spiritus Systems LV-119
• Ferro Concepts Slickster
• Ferro Concepts FCPC V5
• Shellback Tactical Banshee Elite 3.0
• LBT 6094 G3
• TRYBE Tactical Laser-Cut
• Chase Tactical LOPC
• AR500 Invictus

Have you ever used a plate carrier?

Which plates did you decide to go with?

Let me know in the comments below.

Further reading on Firstworldcrusader.com: Are you interested in learning more about guns and gear?

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In addition, here are the Best AR-15 Upgrades & Accessories that can help you get more out of your primary battle rifle.