I have one of these in ranger green and it works perfectly with my H harness chest rig as well as the pouches I put on the front placard so I can have 2 different set ups for my rig depending on missions
Just checked the price on these. My goodness what a deal. I cant say the locking mechanism is as good as some of the other quick release alternatives, but overall this looks like a great carrier.
I’ll just say it… the quick release setup on the cummerbund is a direct First Spear Tubes knockoff. The carrier itself is definitely a good deal AND built well, though.
@@stinkylittlerascal I’m a firm believer in “you get what you pay for.” These in between type setups are an odd duck because people need to try them and see if they’re worth it. IMO, it’s worth half the price of said stripped K19.
All carriers come with less or more coverage in the “shoulder pocket” area. This one is no different… and it’s not “minimalist” by any means. That being said, if you absolutely need to have your stock in the same “shoulder pocket” with the carrier on as you do without it… this is not the carrier for you. That’s where training with your kit comes into play. Finding what method works for you AND is repeatable efficiently. 💪
Definitely a valid concern. Snag points are always something to think about when choosing a piece of kit. That being said, I’ve yet to have anything snag or inadvertently open one of the connection points. I haven’t been rolling around in brush, though. 😂
6’2” 250#… this carrier will fit you. I’m 5’10” 175-180# and I have everything adjusted pretty far in. What you need to think about is whether or not your chest cavity size needs plates larger than 10x12. Which is what this carrier accommodates. If you need bigger 11x13 or 11x14, this company has similar carrier offerings that accept bigger plates.
What’s your rating on the quick release material? And overall rating on the carrier ? Does it hold well against real lvl 3 plates ? Tried tacticon cause it’s veteran own and a few buddies recommended it. But the stitching comes undone over time
Quick release buckle material is ok, honestly. I do believe the issue I ran into with one breaking during a class was the little lanyard on it got caught up on my rifle. I’ve changed out the cummerbund quick release mechanisms for First Spear Tubes… which the ones this carrier comes with are a clear knockoff of. Overall, short term, I’d rate the carrier a 8/10 for build quality, comfort & adjustability. I’m running lvl 4 plates with trauma pads and they haven’t budged during a full day course. As far as the stitching over time… only time will tell.
It’s been through 7 full kit outdoor handgun/rifle classes. Lots of movement involved in the classes… up, down, all around. Lots of vehicle scenarios, simulated shoot house drills, etc. A couple classes were rainy/muddy days… material held up 💪. I’ve had zero material or stitching failures. Only thing that broke, and it was early on, was the quick disconnect “tubes” for the cummerbund to front carrier attachment. Those were junk. I replaced them with True FirstSpear Tubes.
@@thomasjtsi how are you liking the carrier? Just ordered one as a replacement for my agilite k-19. One of the straps ripped on it. This one seems sturdy and a much more affordable price.
@@berens74 Ran a rifle/pistol class this past Saturday and had came out with 1 problem. One of he quick release cummerbund buckles broke. The tab that locks the two pieces together, where you grab the little lanyard to release them, broke off. Not sure what happened… I’m assuming it got caught on something from my rifle while doing a transition. Turned out ok, though. Guy that runs the training class I was in works for First Spear and hooked me up with a set of their legit Tubes. 🤙 Overall, the carrier is a 8/10 for me. Well built, honestly. I’m sure the part breaking was a fluke and could happen to just about any piece of gear/kit.
Damn… it’s already been a year!? 😳😂 The carrier has held up amazing! Other than replacing the quick release tabs on the sides with genuine First Spear Tubes, I haven’t had a single issue.
I’m 5’10” 180# and with the cummerbund bungie snug in the back, that you see in the video, it fits me perfectly. The cummerbund back can be overlapped into the Velcro back panel for someone with a smaller chest. IMO, this would size down to fit you.
I have another full day class/course this weekend. I was planning on doing another video Sunday with my overall thoughts, so far. I’ll have it posted up Sunday night.
Honestly, that’s a weak point that I’m going to be making a video on probably this weekend. I had one of the attachment points for one of the buckles come apart. Replaced them with first spear tubes.’
If you’re buying one for working out… there’s zero sense spending $150+ on a carrier. Find yourself a cheap Amazon option if you’re using it for exercise.
@@thomasjtsi I don’t want something made in China that’s gonna break down that’s why, plus in the future I’d like to add real ceramic plates vs just some non-ballistic weighed ones
@@thomasjtsi thank you man. How’s this carrier holding up?? I’m looking to get it and I’m really grateful for this video because there are really no other UA-cam reviews on this carrier
@@hoovie21 Haven’t fielded it yet. I have a pistol/rifle class coming up the beginning of October… I’ll have a better impression of it after that. I wouldn’t rank this carrier up there with the fit/finish of Crye or Agilite, BUT for about 1/2 to 1/3 the price it definitely better than the “airsoft” and cheapo options.
I just received my Crusader 2.0 plate carrier and first thing i noticed during my setup is my shoulder pads dont have the elastic stow band. I have some little hook pile tape flaps. Im annoyed and have already reached out to Redemption Tactical. Anyone have a similar experience?
@@thomasjtsi back in the day you could buy all kinds of AR15 parts on Amazon. They pumped the brakes on that for obvious political reasons. Now everything is "airsoft" so they can claim everything as such. I've seen actual Aimpoints being sold for "airsoft".
At the time this video was made… I do believe they were Amazon specials. 😂 I was getting a feel for the layout of my kit before dropping $ on name brand pieces.
@@thomasjtsigood deal. Gotta love trolls. I ended up buying this plate carrier and was pretty impressed with quality. Worth every penny for what I need. Nice review brother
@@thomasjtsi no plates yet. Hard to decide lol there are so many different companies and I’m Trying to get used to training with it first then I’ll add plates.
i’m 6’1 185, would this fit me? a plate carrier i bought a month ago doesn’t fit me and i can’t find anywhere on it to tighten it. plus it’s cheap so i’m looking to get this, how do u tighten it? etc.
This carrier will definitely work for your body size. Considering your height/weight… your chest cavity isn’t large nor small. Lots of Velcro adjustability front and rear points of the cummerbund. So, I’d say order it.
Tourniquet holder is an ‘Eleven 10 Soft-Side TQ Pouch’ available on Amazon. The medical pouch is a ‘Krydex Tactical Blow Out Kit Bag Medical Pouch’ also available on Amazon.
@@rickastely996 both attach via molle. The Eleven 10 tourniquet holder comes with Velcro loops & a malice clip for doing so. The med pouch has built in molle straps.
My IFAKs I put a 6” Israeli Style Bandage, a pack of BleedStop First Aid Powder (both from Amazon) and a stack of 4x4 super absorbent non-stick trauma pads. All sealed in a medium size ziplock bag. Keep it simple yet effective.
@@namrufmot Ohhhh the “trauma pads” behind my plates. 🤦♂️😂 They’re literally closed cell foam plate shaped pads that comfort and pad the back of the plate to your body. Lots of options, again, on Amazon. For real, Amazon has a lot of options for things… beyond cheap airsoft products.
That’s a tough thing to gauge… considering I’ve never been in a “real combat situation.” I can attest, however, that this carrier (with Lvl 4 plates) has held up very well through multiple all day rifle/carbine classes. For the price point… I’m extremely satisfied with it.
Took every bit of slack out of them that I possibly could. That’s one thing I don’t like.. is how LOW this setup wants to ride if you don’t adjust it correctly.
Very good question! I did not get a dry (without plates or added pouches) weight on it. Nor does their website list a weight. I’ll get a weight of it and check back in.
After a few handgun/rifle classes I’ve yet to find any hindering flaws with this carrier. I’m not rolling around in a sandbox or fighting through thicket jungle, but I feel this carrier would be a good budget option for a personally purchased deployment/duty rig. 💪
Depends on the size of your torso/chest. Will it fit… yes. Will it fit AND function? Maybe. This carrier has a lot of adjustability. It’s the 10x12 plate that goes in it that might pose a problem for your size.
@@jasonbourne5620 Gotcha. I’m not overly concerned with side plate protection, for myself, on this carrier. Mainly, I was pointing out that the mesh sides would be problematic for those wanting to run hard plates.
Thank you for this comprehensive review! You really covered all of the features I wanted to know about.
To explain the large velcro back is you can set up kits with spare back Molle. Like a breacher tool kit, demo kit etc
Great video, man. Solid work. This really helped me in my decision to buy another carrier. I’ll try it out at XCTC this year
I have one of these in ranger green and it works perfectly with my H harness chest rig as well as the pouches I put on the front placard so I can have 2 different set ups for my rig depending on missions
How long have you had it? Overall thoughts on build quality?
Great review. I'm thinking about picking up one of these. Looks like a great product at a far price.
Looking good
Just found out these are being used in Ukraine and Journalism. Curious to see if any pictures or information on these come out of there. Great review!
Nobody in ukraine is using this chinese vest.
Just checked the price on these. My goodness what a deal. I cant say the locking mechanism is as good as some of the other quick release alternatives, but overall this looks like a great carrier.
I’ll just say it… the quick release setup on the cummerbund is a direct First Spear Tubes knockoff. The carrier itself is definitely a good deal AND built well, though.
Its almost half the price of my stripped Agilite k19, which is a great deal for those features. Solid buy imo
@@stinkylittlerascal I’m a firm believer in “you get what you pay for.” These in between type setups are an odd duck because people need to try them and see if they’re worth it. IMO, it’s worth half the price of said stripped K19.
They but their plate carriers from AliExpress and you can find them on there for about $70
Did you buy this from Amazon?
You're review was perfect! Plate carrier are a investment so having a unbiased review helped my decision. Thank you.
Hey, Justin Random Q: Hows that buckle affect shouldering a rifle? It seems like it'd be right in the way
All carriers come with less or more coverage in the “shoulder pocket” area. This one is no different… and it’s not “minimalist” by any means. That being said, if you absolutely need to have your stock in the same “shoulder pocket” with the carrier on as you do without it… this is not the carrier for you. That’s where training with your kit comes into play. Finding what method works for you AND is repeatable efficiently. 💪
@@thomasjtsi thanks for the prompt reply
@@justinjameshughes3071 No problem at all. Honestly, for the price I’m very please with this carrier. You won’t be upset with it.
@@justinjameshughes3071where did you purchase yours?
I worry about those quick detachments snagging on something like brush if outdoors…?
Definitely a valid concern. Snag points are always something to think about when choosing a piece of kit. That being said, I’ve yet to have anything snag or inadvertently open one of the connection points. I haven’t been rolling around in brush, though. 😂
Thinking about getting one of these and your video was the only review I could find! Much appreciated! Great work
Thank you sir! That was my driving force for the video… couldn’t find any either.
I’m 6’2 250. Would this fit me or would it be too small. If so what plate carriers would you recommend for the bigger bois😅
6’2” 250#… this carrier will fit you. I’m 5’10” 175-180# and I have everything adjusted pretty far in. What you need to think about is whether or not your chest cavity size needs plates larger than 10x12. Which is what this carrier accommodates. If you need bigger 11x13 or 11x14, this company has similar carrier offerings that accept bigger plates.
I've been wanting to buy but i just want to know if it can hold large esapies 10.25-13.25
This specific carrier will not. Their “CRUSADER 2.0 XL” carrier will fit up to 11x14 plates, however.
Carrier aint bad, i am more curious as to where you got those mag pouches to be honest.
Search “Esstac Triple Front Panel” and you’ll find all the results and places to buy. 🤙
What’s your rating on the quick release material?
And overall rating on the carrier ?
Does it hold well against real lvl 3 plates ?
Tried tacticon cause it’s veteran own and a few buddies recommended it. But the stitching comes undone over time
Quick release buckle material is ok, honestly. I do believe the issue I ran into with one breaking during a class was the little lanyard on it got caught up on my rifle. I’ve changed out the cummerbund quick release mechanisms for First Spear Tubes… which the ones this carrier comes with are a clear knockoff of. Overall, short term, I’d rate the carrier a 8/10 for build quality, comfort & adjustability. I’m running lvl 4 plates with trauma pads and they haven’t budged during a full day course. As far as the stitching over time… only time will tell.
just curious to how its held up after about a year? and what type of use have you been putting it through?
It’s been through 7 full kit outdoor handgun/rifle classes. Lots of movement involved in the classes… up, down, all around. Lots of vehicle scenarios, simulated shoot house drills, etc. A couple classes were rainy/muddy days… material held up 💪. I’ve had zero material or stitching failures. Only thing that broke, and it was early on, was the quick disconnect “tubes” for the cummerbund to front carrier attachment. Those were junk. I replaced them with True FirstSpear Tubes.
does it come with the molle placard included? or is it an additonal purchase?
The front molle placard & 3+3 mag carrier IS included with the carrier. I chose to use the Esstac 556 placard, though.
@@thomasjtsi how are you liking the carrier? Just ordered one as a replacement for my agilite k-19. One of the straps ripped on it. This one seems sturdy and a much more affordable price.
@@berens74 Ran a rifle/pistol class this past Saturday and had came out with 1 problem. One of he quick release cummerbund buckles broke. The tab that locks the two pieces together, where you grab the little lanyard to release them, broke off. Not sure what happened… I’m assuming it got caught on something from my rifle while doing a transition. Turned out ok, though. Guy that runs the training class I was in works for First Spear and hooked me up with a set of their legit Tubes. 🤙 Overall, the carrier is a 8/10 for me. Well built, honestly. I’m sure the part breaking was a fluke and could happen to just about any piece of gear/kit.
Mine comes in Tuesday.
Now... to see which finger or toes I don't need for my blue safelife light armor. 😢
There are other good plate options at better price points. 😎
@@thomasjtsi I'll do some digging. Ty bro.
One year in, how’s it held up so far?
Damn… it’s already been a year!? 😳😂 The carrier has held up amazing! Other than replacing the quick release tabs on the sides with genuine First Spear Tubes, I haven’t had a single issue.
Was just looking at these. Not bad priced either. I'm a smaller guy tho, Will this fit snug?
I’m 5’10” 180# and with the cummerbund bungie snug in the back, that you see in the video, it fits me perfectly. The cummerbund back can be overlapped into the Velcro back panel for someone with a smaller chest. IMO, this would size down to fit you.
Awesome. Was leaning towards the freeman carrier from ar500 but this crusader caught my eye. Appreciate the info
@@jasonbourne5620 no problem. If you want/need any other info let me know.
@@jasonbourne5620 did you end up getting it? I'm 5'5 and around 130lbs
@@roboteen I have not. Was making sure I had plates before anything. But the fact you say it works for you will lead me to grabbing this rig
Hey bud anyway you can make another video on how it went for you ?
I have another full day class/course this weekend. I was planning on doing another video Sunday with my overall thoughts, so far. I’ll have it posted up Sunday night.
How durable are the QDs on the cumber band?
Honestly, that’s a weak point that I’m going to be making a video on probably this weekend. I had one of the attachment points for one of the buckles come apart. Replaced them with first spear tubes.’
How long did it take for you to get sent to your house? I just ordered one last Sunday
Took a week for them to ship, but got to me in Missouri in 3 days from shipping.
@@thomasjtsi thanks again this helps tremendously bro 😎 guess I have nothing to worry about 💪🏽🫡
@@villainOsama25 Nah, you’re good. If you haven’t seen the shipping status change after about a week, hit them with a message or email.
I ordered the 16th of march it just got here yesterday
Not many reviews on this thing, how does it do when running or jumping? I want to buy one to use for working out.
If you’re buying one for working out… there’s zero sense spending $150+ on a carrier. Find yourself a cheap Amazon option if you’re using it for exercise.
@@thomasjtsi I don’t want something made in China that’s gonna break down that’s why, plus in the future I’d like to add real ceramic plates vs just some non-ballistic weighed ones
@@Bulian51 I’ve ran a full rifle/pistol class in this carrier with level 4 plates and it held up 💪. So, you’ll be good to go here.
@@thomasjtsi thanks man I appreciate the reply 👌
hey just a quick question where did you get the mag pouches.
Esstac 5.56 Triple Kiwi Shorty
@@thomasjtsi thank i have been trying to look for this for a while
@@thomasjtsi also does it come with the front panel
@@mayrequireice9746 Yes, it comes with the molle front placard and triple mag pouch setup that I mentioned not using, in the video.
@@thomasjtsi ok thank u
Where could I find a placard like the one you stuck on there?
Brand is Esstac… it’s their “Midlength” Daeodon front panel.
@@thomasjtsi thank you man. How’s this carrier holding up?? I’m looking to get it and I’m really grateful for this video because there are really no other UA-cam reviews on this carrier
@@hoovie21 Haven’t fielded it yet. I have a pistol/rifle class coming up the beginning of October… I’ll have a better impression of it after that. I wouldn’t rank this carrier up there with the fit/finish of Crye or Agilite, BUT for about 1/2 to 1/3 the price it definitely better than the “airsoft” and cheapo options.
I just received my Crusader 2.0 plate carrier and first thing i noticed during my setup is my shoulder pads dont have the elastic stow band. I have some little hook pile tape flaps. Im annoyed and have already reached out to Redemption Tactical. Anyone have a similar experience?
Definitely should have the elastic bands. Those are easy to source from just about anywhere though
Does anyone know if this will fit a haley micro chest rig as a placard?
What’s the clip spacing on the Haley placard?
wondering how this held up? thinking about getting one for my first plate carrier
Several outdoor pistol/rifle classes in and it’s still going strong. No rips/tears, fraying or odd wear that I’ve noticed. 💪
@@thomasjtsi awesome thanks, probably gonna pick one up for now then
@@basterdlol9095 for the price they’re WELL worth it!
Will this fit RTS level 4 ceramic plates there thiccc ????
Definitely! Might not be able to get a ‘trauma pad’ in behind it, but the thick plates will fit, for sure. 🤙
Would that fit like a 5,11 150-160 pound guy?
Yes sir. I’m 5’10” 175-180#. The back side of the cummerbund can come in quite a bit to fit smaller chest cavities.
I'm 220lbs would this fit I'm not overly that fat or anything just wondering and I'm around 5.10 ish
Definitely. I’m 5’10” & 185#. There’s quite a bit of outward adjustability in the rear of the cummerbund AND shoulder straps for someone your size.
@@thomasjtsi thank you
So on Amazon it says “airsoft” but can this be used for actual plates?
Absolutely can be used with actual plates. They do the “airsoft” marketing because it sells like crazy!!
It’s airsoft gear from AliExpress
@@thomasjtsi they do the "airsoft" for plausible deniability.
@@sysmith5436 What would they plausibly be denying, though?
@@thomasjtsi back in the day you could buy all kinds of AR15 parts on Amazon. They pumped the brakes on that for obvious political reasons. Now everything is "airsoft" so they can claim everything as such. I've seen actual Aimpoints being sold for "airsoft".
What medical pouch and tourniquet are you running?
At the time this video was made… I do believe they were Amazon specials. 😂 I was getting a feel for the layout of my kit before dropping $ on name brand pieces.
@@WillTheTruth Always someone with something stupid to say. I removed their comment. 🤙
@@thomasjtsigood deal. Gotta love trolls. I ended up buying this plate carrier and was pretty impressed with quality. Worth every penny for what I need. Nice review brother
@@WillTheTruth Appreciste it, sir! What plates did you end up going with?
@@thomasjtsi no plates yet. Hard to decide lol there are so many different companies and I’m Trying to get used to training with it first then I’ll add plates.
i’m 6’1 185, would this fit me? a plate carrier i bought a month ago doesn’t fit me and i can’t find anywhere on it to tighten it. plus it’s cheap so i’m looking to get this, how do u tighten it? etc.
This carrier will definitely work for your body size. Considering your height/weight… your chest cavity isn’t large nor small. Lots of Velcro adjustability front and rear points of the cummerbund. So, I’d say order it.
Where did you get the message kit and tourniquet pouch?
Tourniquet holder is an ‘Eleven 10 Soft-Side TQ Pouch’ available on Amazon. The medical pouch is a ‘Krydex Tactical Blow Out Kit Bag Medical Pouch’ also available on Amazon.
@@thomasjtsi How did you attach them?
@@rickastely996 both attach via molle. The Eleven 10 tourniquet holder comes with Velcro loops & a malice clip for doing so. The med pouch has built in molle straps.
@@thomasjtsi oh ok thank you because I just got mine
@@thomasjtsi One more question should I get level 3 or level 4 plates
One more question… Where did you get your trauma pads
My IFAKs I put a 6” Israeli Style Bandage, a pack of BleedStop First Aid Powder (both from Amazon) and a stack of 4x4 super absorbent non-stick trauma pads. All sealed in a medium size ziplock bag. Keep it simple yet effective.
@@thomasjtsi Thanks… I must’ve missed heard you I thought you had trauma pads behind your armor plates!
@@namrufmot Ohhhh the “trauma pads” behind my plates. 🤦♂️😂 They’re literally closed cell foam plate shaped pads that comfort and pad the back of the plate to your body. Lots of options, again, on Amazon. For real, Amazon has a lot of options for things… beyond cheap airsoft products.
@@thomasjtsi thanks…flea bay has scorpion tactical pads which is actually a “real” armor company for like 20 doll hairs
Hey Sir, great video, would you recommend this for real combat situations, not Airsoft?
That’s a tough thing to gauge… considering I’ve never been in a “real combat situation.” I can attest, however, that this carrier (with Lvl 4 plates) has held up very well through multiple all day rifle/carbine classes. For the price point… I’m extremely satisfied with it.
@@thomasjtsi thanks a lot!
Please tell me how you made the straps tighter
Took every bit of slack out of them that I possibly could. That’s one thing I don’t like.. is how LOW this setup wants to ride if you don’t adjust it correctly.
Can this PC handle Esapi NIJ lvl4 plates?
If it’s a 10”x12” plate… there’s no reason why it wouldn’t fit.
Do you have to have side plates?
Nope. I’ve yet to run side plates in this carrier.
Can u fit ak magazine on this?
I’d recommend an AK specific front placard OR AK specific msg holders that will attach to the included Molle front panel.
Did this come with plates ?
No, but they do offer plates in a “bundle” with this carrier.
What size is this I’m 5’10 195
I’m 5’10” 180#. This carrier fits me very well with plenty of room to go in OR out for smaller/bigger guys.
How much does it weigh?
Very good question! I did not get a dry (without plates or added pouches) weight on it. Nor does their website list a weight. I’ll get a weight of it and check back in.
@@thomasjtsi awesome thanks!
Would this last in an combat environment?
After a few handgun/rifle classes I’ve yet to find any hindering flaws with this carrier. I’m not rolling around in a sandbox or fighting through thicket jungle, but I feel this carrier would be a good budget option for a personally purchased deployment/duty rig. 💪
It’s made in China soooo
Will it hold Ak mags or just ar
Esstac makes mag pouches and placards for AK mags.
@@thomasjtsi thank you sir for that information.
Im 5”5 can i fit it?
Depends on the size of your torso/chest. Will it fit… yes. Will it fit AND function? Maybe. This carrier has a lot of adjustability. It’s the 10x12 plate that goes in it that might pose a problem for your size.
I’m also 5”5’ and skinny af, yes you can (I had to adjust it to my build ofc)
This is literally a replica of the prime armor PC 2.0 lol. Idk who’s copying who.
Since they do not say they are made in USA, are they Chinese then?
Safe to say they are manufactured somewhere other than the United States. If that’s a problem, don’t by this carrier. 😎💪
@@thomasjtsi It's hard to past up a deal like that. Ar500 has a carrier and plates for 185 right now..
@@88Grayman Steel plates? 👎
Can u twerk in it?
Haha, never thought Id see someone else with a poor knights of the temple of Solomon on multicam patch.
Redemption Tactical includes that patch with their carriers. 😎🤙
Go soft sides if you still haven't figured what to do with them. Almost don't know they are even there
“Soft sides”??
soft side plates
Or panels whatever people are calling them nowdays
@@jasonbourne5620 Gotcha. I’m not overly concerned with side plate protection, for myself, on this carrier. Mainly, I was pointing out that the mesh sides would be problematic for those wanting to run hard plates.