NB: When I recorded this video the RAC was available in two sizes, Large (the one I have, which is supposed to fit 10x12 or SAPI L plates but is too big for me and my SAPI M plates), and the Extra Large (which is for 11x14 or SAPI XL). Between recording and publishing, HRT added a new size called "10x12" which seems even more confusing. As far as I can tell there is still no medium RAC carrier.
He ain’t lying about that im 5’10 and it fits me just fine 10x12 fit in their just fine The only thing that I’ve found is that no matter what kind of carrier it is, when i train and start running it will bob up and down. But I’ve went through about 6 plate carriers and they all do it so its really not that big of a deal. My buddy ran mine for about a week and he loved it so much that he went out and bought himself one.
Hop is a go-to dude if I want an honest, no bs review.....accompanied with the "little" details and pain in the ass questions I'd be asking. Good job, Good job
Hop, the only thing I disliked about your personal channel was the long gaps between videos (I know reviews take time and gear isn’t cheap). But lately you have been pumping them out! Appreciate all the work thanks
Good review Hop. I reviewed the RAC a couple of years ago, not my cup of tea. At the time the only zip-on back panel option was a bag sized to carry a ballistic helmet but that wasn’t hydration bladder compatible (?!?). Glad to see they upped their game. Still not my preferred carrier though.
Great video as always Hop. Could you do a basics of plate carriers and plates like what you did for night vision? Speaking of your night vision videos, I feel like vis lasers were all the rage a while ago, what sparked the shift away? Were they always bad and people were too blinded by 90's neon fashion to see it? Or do we just have better technology making them go the way of the beeper?
Probably the American government giving night vision to known terrorist organizations which we've been at war with and now, an ir Lazer can be more than just to help ya see, it'll giveaway your position. I feel like that had played a big part in it.. but I've been wrong before
@@tubeguy4066 thought he said people stopping usage of IR lazers now dayz.... Didn't see it said Viz lasers .... In which my argument would've made sense.... Lmfao... Uhmm right.? 🤣
My brother is in the army reserves and has been looking at medium plate carriers and this is a carrier he really likes, I’ll send him this for reference. Nice video.
Saving up for plates for my Cannae Pro Gear Vakarian plate carrier. Impressed with it so far. Great thing about the Vakarian, it's similar in that it includes a 1 x 5.56 elastic 3 mag insert, 1x 7.62 elastic 2 mag insert, shotgun shell/battery, admin pouch dangler. I think I'll keep it in my truck as a emergency plate carrier and find something similar to the Shellback Tactical Banshee PC that I sold to my friend. One great upgrade is the Blaze Defense Systems quick release for cummerbunds.
The carrier is made in china with chinese fabrics, no wonder they are not IR compliant. Same for the multicam one. In early prototype and promotion they used genuine multicam webbing and later switched to Chinese webbings (not sure about fabrics), which is the same multicam webbing used on Pantac XPC. In fact the HRAC is rebranded XPC with some changes.
I appreciate you being so honest in this review. I have steered clear of rac and hrac as I feel like the design is outdated on these carriers, its not 2010 anymore and we have much better options. It seems to me that there wasnt that much thought put into these. However I think a 2.0 version could address alot of the issues and make these worth buying over the competition.
Looks like Shaw Concepts hit the nail on the head for the quad 5.56/triple 7.62x51 mag pouch insert. I like that they set up the first spear tubes to run from placard itself instead of behind on the plate bag.
Hop finally made a video on HRT. The anime fans in the discord are going to love this. Im sure theyve been begging for videos about HRT for some time now!
With the RAC using the shock cord cummerbund how did you attach the DF cummerbund? I'm curious because I have every part needed including a Velcro patch but I'm having problems finding someone to do the stitch work.
@@dpower6402 there’s a Velcro section on the back after you close up the elastic loop attachment section. I just attached the DM cummerbund there. I also run the hydration pack on top of it and haven’t had any issues.
@@dpower6402 I have the DM cummerbund on my RAC and I just overlapped them so they were velcroed to each other and then closed the flap over them. So far it's held in place great just with its own velcro plus the velcro from the rear flap
Love your videos Hop. I really appreciate how Discerning you are, and it's very refreshing to watch videos where you pick out problems, not just a gush of approval like a lot of reviewers
I love these gear reviews. As a baller on a budget it has definitely helped. I am curious about your opinion on some of the even cheaper stuff though. What are your thoughts on the Condor MOPC, the Vanquish, the Shellback Stealth and the Skirmish?
Honestly, if your poor, dont spend money on the cheap shit. save up some more and get one of the cheaper offerings from crye, you really cannot go wrong with a JPC. Any problems that you have with the carrier, about 50 other people have also had, and one of them came up with some wacky way to fix it. anything from condor or shellback will just be a setback on getting good stuff. I made the massive mistake of going down the cheap shit route, after wasting hundreds in chinesium, I know from experience that its not a good idea.
Shellback Tactical is good, especially their banshee plate carriers. I would check out Warrior Assault Systems as well. You can buy their plates carriers from EOD Gear. I bought a ranger green DCS (reminds me of the LBT 6094) for like $260.
I have the RAC carrier with the quick release cummerbund, along with the Maximus placard, Scopan hanger pouch, and Medium Pack all in ranger green. And after some adjustments, fits and works great at the same time, for the medium pack I put a Condor brand type hydration bladder, and I had no issues for it. Love HRT, in my opinion best gear in the market.
I've been eyeballing a MOPC, but I'm also kinda digging the Vanquish. I'm stuck between those 2 and a couple options from Shellback, mainly the Stealth and the Skirmish.
@@frankrabbit2247 it's okay for the money. But there are better options out there. I have some money saved up for one, but I haven't made my decision yet
I'm thinking that'll be a good place for me to start, then go to the DM MEPC for a lightweight option, has a few nice colorways & options for the slick back but it lack the cummerbund.
Pretty much my experience with the RAC. Got it because I thought it would be good moving through the hot dry mountains especially with the pontoons. But the price isn't really worth it wished I knew about defense mechanism sooner. The IR frustrates me since NIR compliant material isn't that much more expensive. Good design poor fitting and material choice relative to the price.
Nice review. I went with the HRAC and reviewed it aswell. It’s pretty good but i WISH they had more/better cummerbund options or should have made it cross platform. Also not enough adjustments in shoulder straps but i am a short dude. Had no idea about the IR reflect… Why is spray paint a bad solution?
For people before you guy it I had a HRAC with their Maximus placard. They sent me a Maximus without the tabs for the harness attachment and when I told them about it they told me that, that is was my problem and to buy a new one. Yeah I sold all my HRT stuff.
Surprising and a bit disappointing that Platatac's stuff wasn't IR compliant with how many troops actually go to them for their pouches and even rigs. I wonder if their full chest rigs have the same problem.
RE: Platatac Ranger green is a very uncommon colour in Australia, so we are just starting to see platatac producing RG kit. My Platatac SMAC2 in Coyote brown is not at all reflective under IR light, so I think its going to improve over time
@@Hoplopfheil Fully recommend the peacekeeper chest rigs, I've been using them since MK2 and my go to is the mk4 in woodland. One quick note is the Velcro sandwich at the bottom is a different size to most US items, so you may need to size down danglers you want to use on it
Hey Hop, as someone who is trying to start taking their training more seriously, I was wondering if you had a overarching video/guide on the bare essentials to buy and how to get everything setup for a beginner? Thanks for all the great content!
Nah, he doesn't have a guide. Over all, it's very vague and partial guides out there. I can see why, it took me, over 16hours to get my PC perfect. Taking pouches on and off, putting pouches on different sides. Using pliers to work the weaving and loops. Start with price. How much are you willing to spend. Is the stuff you want even available? Start with a wishlist and begin with Garandthumb.
What are you trying to do? Just carrying some spare mags, pistol holster, maybe a dump pouch and IFAK for the range? Start with a belt and find the pouches you want Use METT-TC to decide what is useful for you
I've had an HRAC for 2 years, but really just started using it 6 months ago. I think you hit the nail on the head with this review. I swapped the cummerbund for a 4-cell Ferro elastic and the Maximus placard for a T.Rex 556 shingle. So much more slim and comfortable now
My wife recently suggested that I upgrade my current plate carrier for something more new and improved. Apparently she wants my old plate carrier for herself. The current frontrunner is the Velocity Systems SCARAB - specifically the SC7 modular configuration. Do you or have you had any experience with this brand/model of plate carrier? Furthermore, if you have not had any experience with Velocity Systems, would you be interested in evaluating some of their products? I am almost positive they would send you some T&E items. There are several people that I respect who's paygrade is much higher than mine and I tend to trust their judgement. They all seem to prefer Velocity Systems over most other manufacturers. However, I am always curious as to what the general public thinks about certain pieces of kit. Also, may I ask what your preferred armor inserts are for your primary PC? Make/model/armor level/etc. Please and thank you. Being that you are one of the few _honest_ content creators left on YT, I am genuinely curious as to your thoughts on this priority upgrade. Stay classy my friend.
Hey there! I love the VS Scarab and I've purchased mine back in 2019! The initial model I've purchased was the SC3 LE front LT back. This was so I could use their zip on backpack system and it's still really running solid and strong. One of the issues I've come across the carrier was changing the entire cummerbund due it not being QD and they're a pain to change too since VS has their own propriety system for their cummerbund. What I've upgraded on the cummerbund was adding Blaze Defense Systems QDR tubes kit so it was quick to place on and take off. Other companies make QD cummerbunds that are compatible like Beez Combat Systems or even Arbor Arms. I love the shoulder straps too they're fairly adjustable and it isn't straining wearing the carrier for long hours. My other gripe is that there isn't any cable routing on the carrier but that's entirely fine since there is a bunch of molle. Sizing is pretty accurate, I run small carriers and if I got a medium I think it'd fit me since there is a lot of room for adjustment.
@@humiliated8707 Excellent information brother! Thank you for your assessment from a _users_ perspective. The first hurtle I need to address is the sizing. Initially I though I may need a Large since I have a sort of a barrel-chest synonymous with most Italians. Sounds to me like a Medium will be the optimal size. Although, to be fair, I like to say that "I have a body by Quarantine" which basically means I gained a few pounds over 2021. Not proud of it but I'm not ashamed either. Did you choose the SC3 because of its more minimal footprint? Do you just run a placard over the front cummerbund straps? Thank you for the cummerbund upgrade information. It's quite rare to have someone with _actual_ firsthand knowledge/use of specific products and upgrades. I have added it to my Project Database. May I also ask what make/model/size of armor inserts you currently use? Are you able to secure them snuggly with zero-to-minimal movement inside the carrier? I absolutely loathe plate carriers that allow the armor to bounce around inside the setup. FWIW, I once (keyword _once)_ took an uppercut to the chin from some armor that was not fastened securely inside of a plate carrier. I learned my lesson from that day forward and use that experience to my advantage. Nonetheless, these are great points and I cannot thank you enough for this helpful insight. Much obliged my friend. EDITED for grammar.
@@BertShackleford Heyo! Nice to see my word is getting out there. I chose the SC3 because of the scalability. I mainly run placards on the carrier from custom gear maker 8492nylon to the VS quad placard. I don't regret my choice and I love the ability to just switch from placard to placard. Super modular system really. But I would like to really emphasize that you should really choose the carrier based on your needs!!! What armor inserts I have at the moment are small (8x10) Hesco L210's. These plates fit pretty well within my carrier and I just use a TREX ARMS backer to make them more snug since the plates are a Tiny bit smaller than the plate bag itself. There's barely to zero movement whatsoever. If the Hesco L210s were SAPI cut I'd probably use the TREX backers still just for peace of mind. Hope this helps! Some other youtubers that use the system that have great Scarab info: - ua-cam.com/users/bunnyoperator - ua-cam.com/users/EODFishvideos
I like the bungie system for cummerbunds because I can mod them to use the Crye AirLite structural cummerbund (which IMO is the best rigid cummerbund). I'll have to pickup an HRAC one day; I've had my eyes on them since WPS did a video about them.
@@Fightosaurus AXL makes a spear tubes rigid cummerbund with an adapter just for the SPC. I'm kicking myself for not buying it when I first got my SPC.
There are a lot of great products available now, but I wish more companies understood that you need stretch in your side panels or cummerbund if you’re doing anything remotely athletic. And that you still need a drop-free feature for a lot military units.
I know that the Esstac kywi 4 AR mag and 3 ar10 mag panels fit perfectly on my Cannae Vakarian, I’d imagine they’d fit on yours as well. And they’re just up in Stanwood, so you’d get quick shipping, or you could just go into their shop.
I’ve been looking at these for a minute but knew that you were going to come out with a review video on HRT stuff so wanted to wait. Thanks for the review it really helps a lot!
I used to have an HRAC they are compatible (in kinda) with spiritus cumberbunds. I ran mine with the elastic one till I got a spiritus carrier plate bag set
I have the HRAC because I wasn’t interested in the back bag system. I have had a difficult time finding a compatible cummerbund that I like. Otherwise, I really like the carrier.
Hey Hop, have you heard of the Aussie Peelback Kangaroo Plate Carrier? Also, I would say the cummerbund system is closer to how the Condor Vanquish Armor System Plate Carriers work.
Do you have any recommendations for someone looking for their first carrier? Would you consider doing or recommending a video on buying/setting up your first carrier?
Someone just gave me a RAC carrier so I came here to find out what was wrong with it lol oh well, it’s a free carrier and my first. It’ll do as a placeholder until I can upgrade. My first set of plates are in the mail! Stoked 😂
Every time I see one of these they usually look pretty sloppy. From the excess fabric to the weird platebag shape on the RAC which takes a lot of cues from the AVS including the buckle, these seem more of an AR500-level quality of carrier. I’m sure people love them but they don’t seem like a serious carrier to me.
@@LAAM619 Ferro, Velocity Systems, Spiritus, Crye, Defense Mechanisms, Eagle Industries, etc. Anything from them is going to be better constructed than HRT stuff and use real Ranger Green/Multicam/Coyote fabric rather than whatever off brand HRT uses. It comes down to quality of construction and attention to detail. Yes they all hold plates but if you’re going to spend money on a carrier, you probably want that product to perform the best it can and not be hampered by subpar fabric or stitching which could lead to premature wear or even being spotted under NVG (if that’s a scenario you find yourself in) due to the poor IR performance of said cheap fabric.
@@TerryWhisk thx for the many rec's, im looking for a new pc. I have the Hrac and really love mine, the only con is when i really start moving in it, it doesnt stay put. Standing or sitting is really comfortable but jumping crawling laying down, crouching, etc.. kinda sucks. Any of those mention work well for fat guys? My hrac is a great fit and i tried my friends crye jpc once and while it worked better it was really tight, dont know if its sizing or they are just smaller? Im not very experienced with pc's, but ill be looking up every brand you mentioned.
@@LAAM619 No problem man. No offense but it honestly depends on how “fat” you are. If you’re using 10x12 or 11x14 (generally considered Medium or Large plates respectively) any of those brands will hold your plates. The “fat” aspect comes more into play in cummerbund sizing and I would probably recommend an elastic style cummerbund just to make sure everything stays put. However if you have a lot of stuff you want to mount on the cummerbund, I suggest you take some measurements of your circumference in that area and keep that number in mind when shopping to see what gets close enough as you can generally adjust most cummerbunds. Also, if you’re already running the HRT stuff then don’t feel like you have to toss it all. Just try replacing the cummerbund and see if that improves your experience. It looks like the HRAC has a pass-through style of cummerbund attachment so you can pretty much use any style of cummerbund (JPC-weave or Velcro attach). However, to make the whole system more secure, you could weave a JPC style cummerbund through the rear molle or purchase a Molle-Velcro adaptor and stick a Velcro cummerbund on the back so it wouldn’t be sliding around in the pass-through section. Sorry about the wall of text haha
@@TerryWhisk ty! Well, i was 100lbs over but ive lost 65lbs recently so only 35lbs overweight now. Another 7/8 weeks and the last 35lbs will be gone, i guess i could just wait another 2 months before buying, in the meantime i can just do more research.
Hey Hop, you taken a look at Agilite's AG3 placard? Looks like a semi-structured open-top bungee mag shingle, much easier to re-index mags. Far as carriers, I've been looking at an alternative to the FCPC, since it's basically a millennial chick and only accepts dudes that're 6' or taller, and ran across the T3 Tomahawk LC. Any experience with their stuff?
I have a request. Can you please do the IR test/Night vision test but at realistically distances possibly? Such as 50, 100, 250, 400?? Instead of point blank. I wonder how much it would glow/bright it would be at "combat distances"
Hop love your videos and your reviews. Do you think you will ever review the FCPC by ferro? I know you used to run a slickster but dropped it any interest in the other carrier? Your opinion would be awesome
Shellback doesnt have a good reputation selling to civilians or with customer service. Personal experience and third party. Their products are alright but for the money, they're not up to par with the modern carrier tech
zero kool-aid detected. thank you for the review! bummed that they don't have size options for small or medium. my 13 year old needs one. she's five foot one and I'm sure she won't appreciate a bad fit even if she is growing up fast
I too need to equip my child soldiers. I think I will stick with chicom rigs for the time being, you can buy them in bulk and they’re aesthetically appropriate.
Do you like how the under cummerbund hanger pouch works for a radio? Been thinking about trying one, and have hesitated due to concerns of the PTT being pressed accidentally or in general the buttons and screen being beaten upon in the course of use.
I like my RAC, but I guess I don't have a lot of experience with other PC. Kinda with I would have known about the IR vulnerability though. Thats an issue I didn't even know about haha.
Hey Hop, which glasses are you shooting with? I have trouble finding glasses that fit under my Walkers that are comfortable but also don't push the ear pads away from my head.
This is the current carrier that i use, and i kinda hate it. It was painfully hard to adjust to my liking and its honestly not very comfortable. The "Pontoon" pads are just plain horrible. I had to remove them because of how bad they were. If you're looking for a budget plate carrier, i definitely would not recommend this one. i would just save up the extra couple hundred bucks and get a JPC or something like that.
How do the shoulder straps attach? I’ve been looking for a rear plate carrier to replace my covert spiritus rear plate carrier. I kinda wanna buy a HRT rear plate carrier after seeing the attachment for the cummerbunds are similar to spiritus. I don’t know if the straps on the HRT rear plate carrier would be able to mate with the spiritus front plate carrier.
NB: When I recorded this video the RAC was available in two sizes, Large (the one I have, which is supposed to fit 10x12 or SAPI L plates but is too big for me and my SAPI M plates), and the Extra Large (which is for 11x14 or SAPI XL). Between recording and publishing, HRT added a new size called "10x12" which seems even more confusing. As far as I can tell there is still no medium RAC carrier.
I'm a pretty small guy 5' 8" 150lbs I have the 10x12 RAC carrier and it fits great for me. Not too big at all.
He ain’t lying about that im 5’10 and it fits me just fine
10x12 fit in their just fine
The only thing that I’ve found is that no matter what kind of carrier it is, when i train and start running it will bob up and down.
But I’ve went through about 6 plate carriers and they all do it so its really not that big of a deal.
My buddy ran mine for about a week and he loved it so much that he went out and bought himself one.
@@robertfoster5154 I used to have the same issue until I tightened the crap out of my cummerbun
See i like to breath lol
But its not like it just goes all over the place its just a light up and down
@@robertfoster5154 Haha agreed. The elastic in the back of the cummerbun helps me breathe while still keeping it tight
Hop is a go-to dude if I want an honest, no bs review.....accompanied with the "little" details and pain in the ass questions I'd be asking.
Good job, Good job
Hop, the only thing I disliked about your personal channel was the long gaps between videos (I know reviews take time and gear isn’t cheap). But lately you have been pumping them out! Appreciate all the work thanks
Good review Hop. I reviewed the RAC a couple of years ago, not my cup of tea. At the time the only zip-on back panel option was a bag sized to carry a ballistic helmet but that wasn’t hydration bladder compatible (?!?). Glad to see they upped their game. Still not my preferred carrier though.
We run the zip up packs with the smaller killik hydration bags without issue.
No way you’re here! Love your content boss, cool to see you enjoy hops content too, shalom!
Great video as always Hop. Could you do a basics of plate carriers and plates like what you did for night vision? Speaking of your night vision videos, I feel like vis lasers were all the rage a while ago, what sparked the shift away? Were they always bad and people were too blinded by 90's neon fashion to see it? Or do we just have better technology making them go the way of the beeper?
Probably the American government giving night vision to known terrorist organizations which we've been at war with and now, an ir Lazer can be more than just to help ya see, it'll giveaway your position. I feel like that had played a big part in it.. but I've been wrong before
@@ThePatriotParadox Take your pills, the guy said vis lasers.
@@arrowhead5217 be nice now
@@arrowhead5217 lol... Í just did... And seen that, thought he said using it lasers
@@tubeguy4066 thought he said people stopping usage of IR lazers now dayz.... Didn't see it said Viz lasers .... In which my argument would've made sense.... Lmfao... Uhmm right.? 🤣
My brother is in the army reserves and has been looking at medium plate carriers and this is a carrier he really likes, I’ll send him this for reference. Nice video.
I have both of those. I like them a lot. That quick release buckle is pretty awesome.
I like using the slim 3 rifle mag placard.
Saving up for plates for my Cannae Pro Gear Vakarian plate carrier. Impressed with it so far.
Great thing about the Vakarian, it's similar in that it includes a 1 x 5.56 elastic 3 mag insert, 1x 7.62 elastic 2 mag insert, shotgun shell/battery, admin pouch dangler.
I think I'll keep it in my truck as a emergency plate carrier and find something similar to the Shellback Tactical Banshee PC that I sold to my friend.
One great upgrade is the Blaze Defense Systems quick release for cummerbunds.
The carrier is made in china with chinese fabrics, no wonder they are not IR compliant. Same for the multicam one. In early prototype and promotion they used genuine multicam webbing and later switched to Chinese webbings (not sure about fabrics), which is the same multicam webbing used on Pantac XPC. In fact the HRAC is rebranded XPC with some changes.
I appreciate you being so honest in this review. I have steered clear of rac and hrac as I feel like the design is outdated on these carriers, its not 2010 anymore and we have much better options. It seems to me that there wasnt that much thought put into these. However I think a 2.0 version could address alot of the issues and make these worth buying over the competition.
I think there is a "2.0" version coming out in june
I have the HRAC, quality carrier. And the modulus placard is great for switching from carrier to chest rig. 👍
I run the HRAC with their QD cummerbund but use the Agility Pincer placard and its fits and feels amazing
Agilite*
Great review Hop truly unbiased. I have come to rely on your candor in these reviews. God bless.
Looks like Shaw Concepts hit the nail on the head for the quad 5.56/triple 7.62x51 mag pouch insert. I like that they set up the first spear tubes to run from placard itself instead of behind on the plate bag.
Hop finally made a video on HRT. The anime fans in the discord are going to love this. Im sure theyve been begging for videos about HRT for some time now!
I didn’t like mine either. Went to an AC1 and love it. Having everything slim and streamlined and spread around your body in elastic is my fav setup
Love my RAC carrier. I switched out the cummerbund to Defense Mechanism’s elastic QD version. Great combo.
With the RAC using the shock cord cummerbund how did you attach the DF cummerbund? I'm curious because I have every part needed including a Velcro patch but I'm having problems finding someone to do the stitch work.
@@dpower6402 there’s a Velcro section on the back after you close up the elastic loop attachment section. I just attached the DM cummerbund there. I also run the hydration pack on top of it and haven’t had any issues.
I might try that man!
@@dpower6402 I have the DM cummerbund on my RAC and I just overlapped them so they were velcroed to each other and then closed the flap over them. So far it's held in place great just with its own velcro plus the velcro from the rear flap
Love your videos Hop. I really appreciate how Discerning you are, and it's very refreshing to watch videos where you pick out problems, not just a gush of approval like a lot of reviewers
I love these gear reviews. As a baller on a budget it has definitely helped. I am curious about your opinion on some of the even cheaper stuff though. What are your thoughts on the Condor MOPC, the Vanquish, the Shellback Stealth and the Skirmish?
Check out LBX too.
Honestly, if your poor, dont spend money on the cheap shit. save up some more and get one of the cheaper offerings from crye, you really cannot go wrong with a JPC. Any problems that you have with the carrier, about 50 other people have also had, and one of them came up with some wacky way to fix it. anything from condor or shellback will just be a setback on getting good stuff. I made the massive mistake of going down the cheap shit route, after wasting hundreds in chinesium, I know from experience that its not a good idea.
Shellback Tactical is good, especially their banshee plate carriers. I would check out Warrior Assault Systems as well. You can buy their plates carriers from EOD Gear. I bought a ranger green DCS (reminds me of the LBT 6094) for like $260.
@@b0p1s65 it's less of an "I'm poor" thing and more of a "alot of the guys I know use those" thing.
@@ThatGearCollector2002 never heard of Warrior Assault Systems. Definitely checking that out.
I have the RAC carrier with the quick release cummerbund, along with the Maximus placard, Scopan hanger pouch, and Medium Pack all in ranger green. And after some adjustments, fits and works great at the same time, for the medium pack I put a Condor brand type hydration bladder, and I had no issues for it. Love HRT, in my opinion best gear in the market.
I'd love to see more videos about the other plate carriers that you've tried out. I'm still running my old Condor MOPC
I've been eyeballing a MOPC, but I'm also kinda digging the Vanquish. I'm stuck between those 2 and a couple options from Shellback, mainly the Stealth and the Skirmish.
@@frankrabbit2247 it's okay for the money. But there are better options out there. I have some money saved up for one, but I haven't made my decision yet
Hop, as the king of all things budget, you should take a look at the Cannae Valkerian plate carrier. Amazing value
I'm thinking that'll be a good place for me to start, then go to the DM MEPC for a lightweight option, has a few nice colorways & options for the slick back but it lack the cummerbund.
Boo
@@Bursar60 👻
Glad I'm not the only one who had issues with the RAC
Hey man, thanks for the videos. You are good at what you do.
Pretty much my experience with the RAC. Got it because I thought it would be good moving through the hot dry mountains especially with the pontoons. But the price isn't really worth it wished I knew about defense mechanism sooner. The IR frustrates me since NIR compliant material isn't that much more expensive. Good design poor fitting and material choice relative to the price.
Still rocking my velocity systems mayflower apc. I love it
Spiritus uses a similar bungee system in their carriers. Love the videos man :)
Glad to see more traction on the channel. It mean smore solid information making it out to more people.
I’m still rocking a mayflower of some sort from 2016. That was a considerable upgrade from condor (thanks Nutnfancy).
Nice review. I went with the HRAC and reviewed it aswell. It’s pretty good but i WISH they had more/better cummerbund options or should have made it cross platform. Also not enough adjustments in shoulder straps but i am a short dude. Had no idea about the IR reflect… Why is spray paint a bad solution?
For people before you guy it I had a HRAC with their Maximus placard. They sent me a Maximus without the tabs for the harness attachment and when I told them about it they told me that, that is was my problem and to buy a new one. Yeah I sold all my HRT stuff.
Surprising and a bit disappointing that Platatac's stuff wasn't IR compliant with how many troops actually go to them for their pouches and even rigs. I wonder if their full chest rigs have the same problem.
Hop gear reviews are highly underrated
RE: Platatac
Ranger green is a very uncommon colour in Australia, so we are just starting to see platatac producing RG kit. My Platatac SMAC2 in Coyote brown is not at all reflective under IR light, so I think its going to improve over time
I'm tempted to try their Mk5 peacekeeper rig, but I would probably get it in MC to make sure I was getting the proper materials.
@@Hoplopfheil Fully recommend the peacekeeper chest rigs, I've been using them since MK2 and my go to is the mk4 in woodland. One quick note is the Velcro sandwich at the bottom is a different size to most US items, so you may need to size down danglers you want to use on it
Since no one else will say it, Hop's hair is on point
Hey Hop, as someone who is trying to start taking their training more seriously, I was wondering if you had a overarching video/guide on the bare essentials to buy and how to get everything setup for a beginner? Thanks for all the great content!
Nah, he doesn't have a guide. Over all, it's very vague and partial guides out there. I can see why, it took me, over 16hours to get my PC perfect. Taking pouches on and off, putting pouches on different sides. Using pliers to work the weaving and loops. Start with price. How much are you willing to spend. Is the stuff you want even available? Start with a wishlist and begin with Garandthumb.
Try the tactical gear subreddit
What are you trying to do? Just carrying some spare mags, pistol holster, maybe a dump pouch and IFAK for the range? Start with a belt and find the pouches you want
Use METT-TC to decide what is useful for you
I've had an HRAC for 2 years, but really just started using it 6 months ago. I think you hit the nail on the head with this review. I swapped the cummerbund for a 4-cell Ferro elastic and the Maximus placard for a T.Rex 556 shingle. So much more slim and comfortable now
My wife recently suggested that I upgrade my current plate carrier for something more new and improved.
Apparently she wants my old plate carrier for herself. The current frontrunner is the Velocity Systems SCARAB - specifically the SC7 modular configuration.
Do you or have you had any experience with this brand/model of plate carrier?
Furthermore, if you have not had any experience with Velocity Systems, would you be interested in evaluating some of their products? I am almost positive they would send you some T&E items.
There are several people that I respect who's paygrade is much higher than mine and I tend to trust their judgement. They all seem to prefer Velocity Systems over most other manufacturers. However, I am always curious as to what the general public thinks about certain pieces of kit.
Also, may I ask what your preferred armor inserts are for your primary PC? Make/model/armor level/etc. Please and thank you.
Being that you are one of the few _honest_ content creators left on YT, I am genuinely curious as to your thoughts on this priority upgrade.
Stay classy my friend.
Hey there! I love the VS Scarab and I've purchased mine back in 2019! The initial model I've purchased was the SC3 LE front LT back. This was so I could use their zip on backpack system and it's still really running solid and strong.
One of the issues I've come across the carrier was changing the entire cummerbund due it not being QD and they're a pain to change too since VS has their own propriety system for their cummerbund. What I've upgraded on the cummerbund was adding Blaze Defense Systems QDR tubes kit so it was quick to place on and take off. Other companies make QD cummerbunds that are compatible like Beez Combat Systems or even Arbor Arms.
I love the shoulder straps too they're fairly adjustable and it isn't straining wearing the carrier for long hours. My other gripe is that there isn't any cable routing on the carrier but that's entirely fine since there is a bunch of molle.
Sizing is pretty accurate, I run small carriers and if I got a medium I think it'd fit me since there is a lot of room for adjustment.
You hang on to that woman!
@@humiliated8707 Excellent information brother!
Thank you for your assessment from a _users_ perspective. The first hurtle I need to address is the sizing. Initially I though I may need a Large since I have a sort of a barrel-chest synonymous with most Italians. Sounds to me like a Medium will be the optimal size.
Although, to be fair, I like to say that "I have a body by Quarantine" which basically means I gained a few pounds over 2021. Not proud of it but I'm not ashamed either.
Did you choose the SC3 because of its more minimal footprint? Do you just run a placard over the front cummerbund straps?
Thank you for the cummerbund upgrade information. It's quite rare to have someone with _actual_ firsthand knowledge/use of specific products and upgrades. I have added it to my Project Database.
May I also ask what make/model/size of armor inserts you currently use? Are you able to secure them snuggly with zero-to-minimal movement inside the carrier? I absolutely loathe plate carriers that allow the armor to bounce around inside the setup.
FWIW, I once (keyword _once)_ took an uppercut to the chin from some armor that was not fastened securely inside of a plate carrier. I learned my lesson from that day forward and use that experience to my advantage.
Nonetheless, these are great points and I cannot thank you enough for this helpful insight.
Much obliged my friend.
EDITED for grammar.
@@BertShackleford Heyo! Nice to see my word is getting out there.
I chose the SC3 because of the scalability. I mainly run placards on the carrier from custom gear maker 8492nylon to the VS quad placard. I don't regret my choice and I love the ability to just switch from placard to placard. Super modular system really. But I would like to really emphasize that you should really choose the carrier based on your needs!!!
What armor inserts I have at the moment are small (8x10) Hesco L210's. These plates fit pretty well within my carrier and I just use a TREX ARMS backer to make them more snug since the plates are a Tiny bit smaller than the plate bag itself. There's barely to zero movement whatsoever. If the Hesco L210s were SAPI cut I'd probably use the TREX backers still just for peace of mind.
Hope this helps!
Some other youtubers that use the system that have great Scarab info:
- ua-cam.com/users/bunnyoperator
- ua-cam.com/users/EODFishvideos
this is the best review on this plate carrier
I like the bungie system for cummerbunds because I can mod them to use the Crye AirLite structural cummerbund (which IMO is the best rigid cummerbund). I'll have to pickup an HRAC one day; I've had my eyes on them since WPS did a video about them.
Love the structural cummerbund just wish it came with tubes. Tempted to try one of the tubes mods.
@@Fightosaurus AXL makes a spear tubes rigid cummerbund with an adapter just for the SPC. I'm kicking myself for not buying it when I first got my SPC.
I’m a simple man. I see hop vid, I watch.
Nice, the hormone replacement therapy rac
The ack rac
There are a lot of great products available now, but I wish more companies understood that you need stretch in your side panels or cummerbund if you’re doing anything remotely athletic. And that you still need a drop-free feature for a lot military units.
Very comprehensive, thank you!
I know that the Esstac kywi 4 AR mag and 3 ar10 mag panels fit perfectly on my Cannae Vakarian, I’d imagine they’d fit on yours as well. And they’re just up in Stanwood, so you’d get quick shipping, or you could just go into their shop.
I bought a RAC last week and it's arriving tomorrow
So good timing lol
I’ve been looking at these for a minute but knew that you were going to come out with a review video on HRT stuff so wanted to wait. Thanks for the review it really helps a lot!
Finally a carrier for all my HRT!
I used to have an HRAC they are compatible (in kinda) with spiritus cumberbunds. I ran mine with the elastic one till I got a spiritus carrier plate bag set
I can’t seem to find where these are made
I’ve even asked them and got no response.
I think for the price you get a lot from defense mechanisms
I have the HRAC because I wasn’t interested in the back bag system. I have had a difficult time finding a compatible cummerbund that I like.
Otherwise, I really like the carrier.
Great review as usual Hop
Good no nonsense review as usual
Hey Hop, have you heard of the Aussie Peelback Kangaroo Plate Carrier? Also, I would say the cummerbund system is closer to how the Condor Vanquish Armor System Plate Carriers work.
Would you consider reviewing the Agilite K19 and Pincer Placard? Those look so innovative for a very competitive price.
Do you have any recommendations for someone looking for their first carrier?
Would you consider doing or recommending a video on buying/setting up your first carrier?
I like when Hop spends money so I don't have to
Someone just gave me a RAC carrier so I came here to find out what was wrong with it lol oh well, it’s a free carrier and my first. It’ll do as a placeholder until I can upgrade. My first set of plates are in the mail! Stoked 😂
That color is called smoke green, which is super interesting. Not much smoke green out there.
Every time I see one of these they usually look pretty sloppy. From the excess fabric to the weird platebag shape on the RAC which takes a lot of cues from the AVS including the buckle, these seem more of an AR500-level quality of carrier. I’m sure people love them but they don’t seem like a serious carrier to me.
Whats a serious carrier?
@@LAAM619 Ferro, Velocity Systems, Spiritus, Crye, Defense Mechanisms, Eagle Industries, etc. Anything from them is going to be better constructed than HRT stuff and use real Ranger Green/Multicam/Coyote fabric rather than whatever off brand HRT uses. It comes down to quality of construction and attention to detail. Yes they all hold plates but if you’re going to spend money on a carrier, you probably want that product to perform the best it can and not be hampered by subpar fabric or stitching which could lead to premature wear or even being spotted under NVG (if that’s a scenario you find yourself in) due to the poor IR performance of said cheap fabric.
@@TerryWhisk thx for the many rec's, im looking for a new pc. I have the Hrac and really love mine, the only con is when i really start moving in it, it doesnt stay put. Standing or sitting is really comfortable but jumping crawling laying down, crouching, etc.. kinda sucks. Any of those mention work well for fat guys? My hrac is a great fit and i tried my friends crye jpc once and while it worked better it was really tight, dont know if its sizing or they are just smaller? Im not very experienced with pc's, but ill be looking up every brand you mentioned.
@@LAAM619 No problem man. No offense but it honestly depends on how “fat” you are. If you’re using 10x12 or 11x14 (generally considered Medium or Large plates respectively) any of those brands will hold your plates. The “fat” aspect comes more into play in cummerbund sizing and I would probably recommend an elastic style cummerbund just to make sure everything stays put. However if you have a lot of stuff you want to mount on the cummerbund, I suggest you take some measurements of your circumference in that area and keep that number in mind when shopping to see what gets close enough as you can generally adjust most cummerbunds. Also, if you’re already running the HRT stuff then don’t feel like you have to toss it all. Just try replacing the cummerbund and see if that improves your experience. It looks like the HRAC has a pass-through style of cummerbund attachment so you can pretty much use any style of cummerbund (JPC-weave or Velcro attach). However, to make the whole system more secure, you could weave a JPC style cummerbund through the rear molle or purchase a Molle-Velcro adaptor and stick a Velcro cummerbund on the back so it wouldn’t be sliding around in the pass-through section. Sorry about the wall of text haha
@@TerryWhisk ty! Well, i was 100lbs over but ive lost 65lbs recently so only 35lbs overweight now. Another 7/8 weeks and the last 35lbs will be gone, i guess i could just wait another 2 months before buying, in the meantime i can just do more research.
Hey Hop, you taken a look at Agilite's AG3 placard? Looks like a semi-structured open-top bungee mag shingle, much easier to re-index mags. Far as carriers, I've been looking at an alternative to the FCPC, since it's basically a millennial chick and only accepts dudes that're 6' or taller, and ran across the T3 Tomahawk LC. Any experience with their stuff?
Love my HRT plate carrier!
I have a request. Can you please do the IR test/Night vision test but at realistically distances possibly? Such as 50, 100, 250, 400?? Instead of point blank. I wonder how much it would glow/bright it would be at "combat distances"
Olive (love you Hop!)
Garden
salmonella
was
Bought a medium carrier one time, figuring it would probably be fine. Lmao now I have a 11x14 Scarab. I’m a garbage truck sized human.
thank you for helping represent the trans community in the 2a section! much love!
Hop love your videos and your reviews. Do you think you will ever review the FCPC by ferro? I know you used to run a slickster but dropped it any interest in the other carrier? Your opinion would be awesome
Hop is the fuckin man. My only complaint is just that--he's only one man and can only do so many gear reviews.
Love the hair Hop. Looks good.
I ditched my HRAC as soon as I could and bought a Trex Arms AC-1. The HRAC didn't fit my plates very well and that really bothered me
Hey Hop, take a look at the Shellback Tactical Rampage 2.0
It's what I'm gonna be running for my kits in the future
Why
@@Token_Black_Guy Cause so far it seems pretty damned comfortable and good that's why
Shellback doesnt have a good reputation selling to civilians or with customer service. Personal experience and third party. Their products are alright but for the money, they're not up to par with the modern carrier tech
Booo
@@AndyE30 Even the Rampage? That thing was running for 140 ish on their website. Anything you would recommend for that or cheaper?
Review the agelite k19 next. I'm really interested in hearing your thoughts
I ❤ Hormone Replacement Therapy Tactical
It's was a toss up between this and the mepc for me. Realy happy with the mepc
Still waiting on my mepc to ship
@@Token_Black_Guy invest in shoulder pads and cable management. Besides that it's perfect for me
I like how this review comes out the day I get my RAC carrier lol
What light is that on your rifle?
BTW. Good review on the carrier
Good stuff Hop.
If you ever want to get rid of those carriers…I’m your guy ☝️
Not enough companies make lil baby manlet sized plate carriers. 😔
You are a giant in my eyes Mabs
zero kool-aid detected. thank you for the review! bummed that they don't have size options for small or medium. my 13 year old needs one. she's five foot one and I'm sure she won't appreciate a bad fit even if she is growing up fast
I too need to equip my child soldiers. I think I will stick with chicom rigs for the time being, you can buy them in bulk and they’re aesthetically appropriate.
zip ties are the best molle attachment method change my mind
Can't talk right now babe, Hop posted another video
Damn Hop got a fire hairstyle
Do you like how the under cummerbund hanger pouch works for a radio?
Been thinking about trying one, and have hesitated due to concerns of the PTT being pressed accidentally or in general the buttons and screen being beaten upon in the course of use.
Hop you need to review hair care products too, dawg.
Nice carrier, but I’ll stick with my LV119.
I just checked my multicam HRAC, the base fabric is IR compliant but the webbing they used for the MOLLE rows is not. glows terribly.
I like my RAC, but I guess I don't have a lot of experience with other PC. Kinda with I would have known about the IR vulnerability though. Thats an issue I didn't even know about haha.
You should review the agility k-19
Only thing I'm interested in from hrt is their new harness system plate carrier they claimed will be released soon
Soooo. When are you going full mullet? I’m waiting.
1:37 damn hop looking fine
how do you go prone and still access ammo without making your profile much taller?
Why make a carrier that doesn’t take medium plates, pretty sure majority of the population uses that size.
Hey Hop, which glasses are you shooting with? I have trouble finding glasses that fit under my Walkers that are comfortable but also don't push the ear pads away from my head.
Aegis Echo II Compact
@@Hoplopfheil thank you sir
I always figured you were on HRT
This is the current carrier that i use, and i kinda hate it. It was painfully hard to adjust to my liking and its honestly not very comfortable. The "Pontoon" pads are just plain horrible. I had to remove them because of how bad they were. If you're looking for a budget plate carrier, i definitely would not recommend this one. i would just save up the extra couple hundred bucks and get a JPC or something like that.
How do the shoulder straps attach? I’ve been looking for a rear plate carrier to replace my covert spiritus rear plate carrier.
I kinda wanna buy a HRT rear plate carrier after seeing the attachment for the cummerbunds are similar to spiritus. I don’t know if the straps on the HRT rear plate carrier would be able to mate with the spiritus front plate carrier.
Have their placard, i like it. But i really want to get my hands on the helikon tex one reeves pimped, it looks a scosh better to me.
Have you ever tested the Agilite carrier, if so, what are your thoughts on it? Thanks.
>HRT
Tacticool Girlfriend has entered the chat