Well John, I much prefer to see a video when someone has something to say, rather than those (whom I will not name here) who make that 2nd or 3rd video of the day just because they haven't heard themselves talk in 30 seconds... I have frankly stopped watching some people who from time to time have good content, just because of all the fluff... which I just don't have the time or desire to wade thru... so good on ya!
Luv your channel. I was in during the 70s. ALICE LBE was worn low in the field so the ALICE pack could sit on it. Fast forward to the Brits today. They wear their PLC low and their body armor over the PLC. Their Body armor is usually worn slick. And their assault pack can carry anything else. I still used the M56 canvas H harness but with a Condor gun belt now for years. I removed the metal hardware and replaced it with paracord long enough for any needed adjustments. And my ALICE pouches are zip tied and the MOLLE Pouches connect very easily to the gun belt. This arrangement has proven to be lightweight, strong enough, secure, and distributes the weight well. The Condor gun belt allows for quick adjustment for comfort, and for more or less clothing. No padding is needed. It also has a low profile. And I wear it low. So my plate carrier and ruck can go over it. I can easily carry all three levels of kit or less. I use 3 SAW pouches for sustainment or group items or ammo if needed, 2 multipurpose Canteen pouches, and 2 quad AR 15 pouches, and compass pouch on the belt. I no longer use my buttpack. Nothing wrong with the latest and greatest but it’s usually really expensive or not the right size pouches for what you need or want to carry, or closures are not the right size. I hope this post helps someone in customizing their gear inexpensively.
Good talk as always brother, nailed it. That 'itis is going around right now heh, hope you feel better soon. Benefits of a CR- lighter (subjective) load to roll with and move fast, good for the other stuff you noted. Still better than having to lug a PC or IBA as the norm lol. Benefits of an LBE- better load capacity, longer term sustainment, and the stuff you noted. Only things I don't like about the ALICE kit I was running in the early years of my Army time was the lack of adequate comfort/ padding on the waist, and having to tape or zip-tie secure the ACLICE clips because they are fallible and like to undo themselves at times. Fairly minimal issue but it needs to be addressed. Current modernized and most easily accessible LBE's on the market: - Tasmanian Tiger Warrior Belt Mk III (US/ German) - Nixieworks Lightfighter Rig (US) - Velocity Systems Jungle Kit (US) - Genuine JayJay's Gen 4 Webbing (UK platform) - MFH Pattern 83 SADF Style Battle Jacket (aftermarket Canadian/ Chinese made) Surplus LBE's more commonly floating around on the market: - ALICE Web Gear/ LBE (US) - SMERSH Rig (Russian) - Eagle Industries Belt Rig (US, they are awesome, I agree, wish they still made them) - PLCE (British and Dutch) - Pattern 83 SADF Battle Jacket (South African genuine Surplus) For the algorithm, cheers.
My UW Gear rig is hands down the best rig I’ve owned, solid and bombproof, it’s my go to. I do have the Nixieworks rig, and it is fantastic, I really like it, and it’s for a total different use, you’ll really like it. Excellent video brother!
I was never in the military but I remember my Father giving me LBE gear when I was a kid in 80’s. I recall buckling on my leather 1911 flap holster & mag pouches. I put the the wound kits on the shoulder straps. I still have mine. To be honest, my “battle belt” is made out of an old school web belt.
Sorry late to the table, thanks for video! I've always considered the British PLCE & Russian Smersh the gold standarda of LBEs! Nice to see interest return. In hot & humid conditions I feel they shine even more. you can combine them with chest rig or plate carrier. If you see the latest pictures of Ukrainian soldiers in combat,you will see quite often, they combine their Smersh belt kit with a plate carrier. Carrying crap ton of mags & grenades for trench warfare.
Russian Smersh molle, comes with a good set of pouches already and has room to add water storage, and can run a bladder if you prefer, and can in turn run a 3 day pack with it if you like. I have one and i really like it especially if you want to swap the older pouches out for newer speed pouches. Its a comfortable harness with molle so you have all the new pouches available.
Great note on keeping the back clean and wearing a separate pack. I forsee someone making an LBE and pack set soon enough. Lots of improvements in both to combine.
LBE starting to make a comeback as people realize how much more comfortable and practical it is for outdoor foot mobile use.. I’ll this plate carrier and chest rig stuff is for vehicle mobile ops.. once you got to start carrying all your own resupply instead of ammo cans in the rear of a vehicle we are going back to LBE and Alice tyoe systems.. I used modern gear to make a new lbe jungle belt type setup not long ago.. 3 row modern molle belt with an actual old school web belt inside lol.. no need for a $80 cobra belt the old gi web belts are plenty good and durable and cost $10.. used an actual Alice field pack/butt pack in the rear.. Went single Pistol, double rifle, 100rnd saw, fold up dump pouch under those, Nalgene not canteen, field pack, Nalgene again, 200rnd saw as gp, then another 100rnd saw then another single pistol.. I have the old cheap universal drop leg holster too.. don’t care for crap flapping around in my legs but it works.. The 100rnd saw can fit 4 30’s tight or 3 30’s comfortably.. The issue with modern h harness is they aren’t really conducive to use with a true field pack and keeping them from sagging.. shitty as it is the condor H harness works well.. instead of using the rear belt d rings I hooked into the field pack like the old LBE would’ve been.. The Nalgene over canteen is cause they have nice pouches and the shape with the side molle I had to have for the field pack.. I’m 30” waist so to fit everything I had to use the outer column on each Nalgene for the outs attachments of the field pack so it would ride right and fit everything I wanted it to fit.. plus the Nalgene take up one less column.. with 30” waist I only get 16 columns to work with and really only 12-14 usable cause some ends up in front.. I can if need be throw on a micro chest rig wo interference issues fir more.. I can throw on my plate carrier but I can have issues getting into the bigger pouches off the waistline.. I went this way more so cause I wanted to size down a ruck and have more basic items on body.. The only problem is if you’re carrying a large ruck you got to go to a chest harness in order to use the kidney belt.. so my entire thought process was be able to size down to a simple assault pack where this isn’t an issue.. Hah you actually talking like this now with the TT setup.. this is exactly my setup only I went with all gp style pouches other then the first double rifle is a modern fast mag tyoe setup.. sgl mag x2 over 4 columns no flap or bungee retention.. The one thing I want the option of and I’m still figuring out how to do this properly.. I want the option to add a hydration sleeve to the harness.. unless you go with a full back molle harness there isn’t anyone who makes something for this.. even the full back molle harness leave the bottom flopping all over.. I got a full open back for breathing so all I got is the top shoulder straps and the bottoms webbing where it holds up the field pack in the rear to work with.. I know the things I need just yet to find the proper parts to put it together.. I know they make those shallow and wide 1.5l minis but I want a full 3l. Like you I’m in the south and 100% humidity and 96* half the year you can’t ever have too much water.. 7-8l is the bar min for a single day here.. that’s two canteen/Nalgene, bladder in assault pack and then that leaves 2-3l short.. another 3l on the harness would be ideal vs taking up space in a small pack with more water..
John as you know, I have your chest rig(s) and you have helped me get it right for me and I love it. I also have my original issue ALICE LBE from when I was a platoon leader, it has as many jumps as I do. Great video!
Thank you for the info on the Eagle H Harness. I' ve been using an LBE set up since the 90's . I use them for hiking and regular out door activity and i have my Minute Man load out. Its what works for me , its my decades of muscle memory .
I was issued the LBV-88 which also used the ALICE equipment. It's the early chest rig that the US used. The good thing about the LBV is that it is easier put on and take off, with the front closure. We would use the LBV with and without body armor. It's just as good as anything out there.
Family first, work when you can, be grateful. Good video! Train for 'your' situation in your environment. I've always thought ALICE gear was replaced with the advent of 'body armor' which during it's development ended up being a platform to attach gear to. During GWOT the increased use of armored vehicles like Humvees necessitated wearing gear towards the front of the body to be able to sit in the vehicle seats. MOLLE gear (initially the FLC worn over 'slick' body armor) made that much easier. The wearing of 'chest rigs' grew out of the TAPS panels worn first by the Rangers (I believe) to quickly change the loadout (or add to) they needed while wearing plate carrier vests. Civilians tend not to wear body armor so harness straps were added to TAPS panels and 'chest rigs' became the minimalist trend. As stated - to each their own but verify.
Thank you for being real. What works not what looks cool. I like both and hate both but need to get the job done is all that matters to me. Thank you very much for being real.
"If you are in a firefight that you didnt plan for or initiate, its an ambush"- cant remember who. I remember some of our Battalion Scout teams would wear their LBE just a bit higher than their belly button so they would not have to make long motions to get to gear on a patrol. I personally use a Condor Gen II Battle Belt with a Condor H Harness. I use this setup for range use or if going through the woods when its really hot. I also have a Shellback Tactical plate carrier for different missions. I also use a pistol, which I am very well trained with from my time as a LEO and SWAT training. I like a LBE type setup because I trained a lot with it in my early military days in the light infantry.
I've been looking for the KarrimorSF modernized version of the South African Pattern 83 battle vest for years. Haven't seen a single one for sale. I really like the setup. Guess I'll have to make my own 👍 I like alice gear but having to dial it in perfectly for whatever I'll be wearing underneath and then tape every strap and clasp and ziptie every alice clip is awful tedious. Molle stuff tends to be heavier and bulky. So, sewn in pouches aren't that bad once you train it. The LBV88 is a good example, I like the angled mag pouches on the chest way more than a vertical molle double pouches. Great video man, lots of good points. Subscribed! 🇺🇲
I want to thank you for this video. I have been watching and researching as much as i can to try and find a solution to wanting to have LBE but can wear with very slick chest rig and its gonna be alot cheaper than a velocity systems jungle rig
At jaeger course, I ran paired up helikon guardian and foxtrot with extra GP pouches. Lots of space to carry smokes, water, etc for that class that was vast majority foot patrol. The following weekend, the foxtrot buttpack was getting me hung up running vehicle dismount drills. Tl/Dr: LBE great for foot patrol +/- chest rig. Chest rig great for vehicle mounted activities. Recommend modularity and (some) redundancy.
Great info and u are 100% correct. Where i live in the tropics (jungle) where the avg temp is 87 u can not use body armor or large chest rigs, heat stroke will kill first before a bullet. The equipment u should use is what is best for your area of operation and the lighter it is the better. Remembre the saying KISS.
I run an Eagle Ind War Belt with an Eagle buttpack that is like a mini ALICE pack. I use it just like John sid, with the patrol pack, I don't need a full ruck. Good video.
I run a complete NOS Alice webbing. I also have the lbv-88e that I sometimes use. I prefer Alice though. Especially with the belt pad. Running a medium Alice ruck with frame, and m81 cover for ruck.
Winter Or Colder Dry Weather Is Great For Chest Rig-Up's And Being Stealthy Incognito! Now Reconing In A Humid Or Southwest Desert In Daytime For Training (Normally, You'd Want To Creep At Night, Not In The Daytime Peak Heat!) Prevent Heating Up Sweating At Night, While Moving At Pace To Prevent Hypothermia! I Definitely Prefere L.B.E Type Rig's With Plenty Of Water Carring Capabilities From Camelbak's, Canteens And A Belt Tow Rig For A Beach Wagon Full Of Water, Hand Pumps, Filters And For Dehydrated Casualties, Lol! 😎 🇺🇸
Well said man! LBE definitely can be a nice to have but chest rigs still work and sometimes are the better choice. Pretty fond of my Nixieworks rig but at the end of the day it’s just a tool to help me accomplish whatever i need to do
I like having a chest rig, for speedy reload, in combination with a British style PLCE belt kit for sustainment out in the field. I think this setup is the best to allow having a lighter day pack since some weight is distributed to the hip area.
Been working on piecing a similar system together for a couple weeks... good stuff. I've really given it some thought so I'm not wasting money cuz I need at least 2 of these kits, 1 for One Shepherd and 1 for my at home camo pattern of choice. I think I've got a good picture in my head of how I'm going to kit it out
Make sure you dont have a sinus infection as if not treated, could lead to other things going bad. The All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment (ALICE) is a set of load-carrying equipment adopted as United States Army Standard A on 17 January 1973. The LBV-Load Bearing Vest came out to wear over the the older versions ballistic armor, then came the molle plate carriers.
To each their own. I actually prefer ALICE type web rigs. Mostly because I live in a wet environment. and if I have to dive face first into the mud to avoid being shot I don't want to drag my ammo through the mud. I'm pretty sure Murphy would bite me in the ass with a malfunction.
TRIVIA: In one episode of 'Magnum, P.I.', he wears a Vietnam-era LBE rig on a day hike. 😎 I have an old M1956 H-harness LBE rig, and I far prefer it over chest rigs; though I would like an OD LBV for carrying extra Freedom if ever needed. My issue with chest rigs is that they would get between me and the sweet, sweet cover of earth if I ever had to go prone for protection! I think one of the sources of chest-rig popularity was the cheap Chinese chest pouches that came in pre-2000, plus the comfort and convenience when riding in vehicles. Throw in their practicality with modern plate carriers and body armor and it's easy to see why they became so popular. I guess I'm a dinosaur...
@@AlphaCharlieConcepts I'm sure a good part of it is that I'm a dinosaur...😎 I will insist on cringing, though, when someone has double-stacked mags and other gear sticking out front of themselves...🙂
For your coined "Area Denial Weapon" or I believe the Automactic Rifleman role LBE makes alot of sense to me . A weapon primarily used in the prone on a bipod or a fixed fighting position. You are using larger size mags for one thing and if they are in a chest rig you will probably be laying on them . Accessing mags from your side makes alot of sense. Thanks for the information.
For your area denial, consider what role you are in. In an assault type role are you going to be prone? For a static position (overwatch, defense) shouldn't your mags be on the ground besides the weapon while you are prone? Why not keep them out and accessable while prone. Or use a friend as a loader/ammo carrier. Just things to consider. Do what works.
I am trying out a FLC vest and wearing a tradition Alice LBE set. Feels good. A lot of strap adjustments and pouch movements involved. Insuring that one pouch does not cover/block the other pouch. Imaging, two rows of equipment. I could of used the LBV 88 system however, I find there is limited space on the pistol belt once it is attached the the LBV vest.
Awesome content man! I've been slowly piecing together my belt kit for many of the same reasons you listed. A chest rig and pack don't work very well in the field when I have to carry a med bag as well. Hoping the belt kit in conjunction with an SOE buttpack can cover the fighting and sustainment load while freeing up my back for the med bag. Keep it coming!
Every time I see a ACC vid pop up in my notifications, I hold my breath, hoping this will be the notice that I can, after sooo long waiting, order a SwampFox 4 Rig..maybe even a SwampFox 8.... RockOn.StayFree.
If I'm honest with myself and my skill-set, I should be emulating a 91B with a little bit of kit on my lbe and maybe a slung rifle, versus some tier 1 operator who's operating operationally. I'll just be behind making sure their wheels are squared away for them. Edit: I've always thought it was ok to plus-up my basic ass lbe/battle-belt with a plate carrier with a few more things was just normal if circumstances said so.
All the best to you and your family. Glad to see you again, having fun. All work and no play makes jack a dull boy. high speed gear has great belts. tactical tailor makes best alice frame. Fire force butt packs are good to go (not fire force ventures different company.)
Amen! I want to here more about what's coming. I have a friend that gives me Intel every once in awhile and he's telling me that it's a rigged chess game ,there is alot more for another time. I rock L.B.E and some of it is from the 60's 70's 80's and early 2000's. Alice is the way.
As always, mission dictates the gear. LBE is hard to beat when moving distance on foot, since it distributes weight across the body and takes advantage of body mechanics, while chest rigs are much better when you're in vehicles, and they're convenient when you're not carrying much weight. Of course, it's not unrealistic to combine the two; a stripped-down chest rig or plate carrier with only the basics you absolutely need, and a heavy LBE you can throw on top as necessary. As another poster mentioned, the Russian SMERSH rig is pretty good, especially for the price, since building the US equivalent costs more than twice as much and usually requires piecing it together from multiple sources, though US nylon is more specialized and of better quality. Another LBE option is British PLCE, their belts are hard sewn together, but they're very, very good, and built with wearing a pack in mind. The rear pouches are set up to let you rest your ruck on them to take some weight off your shoulders. Problem is that their belts are extremely wide/tall, and they get real warm, real quick. I don't have issues with mounting small packs to LBE or plate carriers, but I build them with quick access in mind; you have to set up some QD buckles to hold it up, I used retrofit cobra buckles for the shoulder mounts to carry the weight, and fastex for the sides to hold it in place. Not as convenient as an actual pack, but it's one less layer on your shoulders/chest, and less annoying for shouldering a rifle. Does take an extra moment to reattach, though. Seen it done where you reverse the pack when attaching it, disconnect the side buckles, and just flip the whole thing over your head to hang it over your chest for access.
I'll go as far as to say that for almost every situation a citizen may find them selves in other than Combat - a ALICE or PLCE style harness would be better. The chest rig is great for combat, and its excellent when you have the US military logistic train behind you and a million POGs building Fobs and maintaining your transportation and keeping track of your calorie and hydration levels for you - but are you, a citizen who doesn't have the US military support, going to go on a 10 mile hike in southern heat in a what amounts to a 20 lb sweater vest. Of course ALICE isn't going to get you a lot of likes on Instagram. There is nothing hot and sexy about it, doesn't have that tier-1 energy.
I've changed my stuff so much I've Gone stupid 🥴 I'm going nuts 🤪 Constantly changing s*** JUST can't seem to get anything right tearing my gear up putting it back together. doing this & doing that I have most problem of placing antenna and comms... and gun strap hanging up on stuff DRIVING NUTS!
I was sitting around a few months ago and rethought my entire kit. Why emulate what i used in the military where i had support and a huge group of other very well trained individuals? I thought better to look at Myanmar fighters or Vietnamese and other non conventional fighters, all they used was a $20 milsurp chicom and a back pack (sometimes not even a bag) Whats worked extremely well for me has been a 7 cell Parashooter gear Pathfinder where i only run 5-7 mags a tq and an socp knife. Shooters belt where i have more ammo, 2 admin pouches, pistol, meds and then if i need anything big that can fit the belt it goes in a small bulloch pack. Imo only things that should be on ur chest or belt are things to take life and things to save life. Unless ur running alice kit only but i found having too much weight around my hips hindered me while running and flexibility
Iam a 53 yr old former Marine, gear whore. I cut my teeth on ALICE, went through the LBE and MOLLE webs, now back to leather because I got bored and it's beautiful and warm, lol.
As a Navy Seabee 89-99. I wore Alice gear. We were basically riflemen. So no pistols for majority of the enlisted men. IMO the switch to battle belts and or chest rigs/plate carriers in the civilian sector is because everyone wants to carry their pistol with them. Which is a good thing.
Thank you. Keep up the good work. I have a few chest rigs I have purchased and tried out. And I always go back to my old school LBV. I trained on and used. With my own modifications lol. Thank you. Again in your store do you have mag pouches for the 12ga. 10 round magazine pouches???
I wouldn't wear lbe directly on or below your hips. I've been using my belt kit for over a year, and anything fighting load or over on the weight side is going to feel like a pissed off 5 year old is attempting judo take downs on you. Adjust your suspenders so the buckle of your belt connects at or just below your belly button. That will naturally rest your belt on top of your hips and give you better balance and mobility.
Thoughts on the Nixieworks LFR? I have the old molle2 double pouches upfront, followed by 100rd saw pouches. I carry two 2qt canteens in the back and a bivvy roll underneath.
I don't have any first hand experience with them, but I would love to check one out. My biggest concern based off what I've seen/read is that their buttpack might be a bit too large.
Looking for a youth sized h harness any advise? Can you make by chance? The shoulder straps are to long and the back piece is always to wide placing the straps on outer part of shoulder and to low on my hip/belt vs on my gut. Usually end up having to settle with the taps y strap system for a close fit but even then the front is a touch long with those straps and for h harnesses about 4 inches to long...
You are totally correct there are 4 rigs people should have A get out quick rig A food to run rig A fighting rig with ammo A 3 day daily rig that will give you time to get away to a safe distance . Hide. And gather info to go back and get your sfuff back I have a well planned rig system for my entire family Every rig has minimal impact Water 3 litres Food 3 to 5 days worth . Medical. Ammo I can grab any rig and be confident it will get me home except wwe aŕe not allowed armour plates here so 40 layers of kevlar works well up to 308 STAY SAFE EVERYONE
The entire gun & gear industry is a mountain made out of a mole hill 😆. As you stated, get what suits your needs and become extremely proficient in it. Good stuff as always bro. See you soon, stay safe 🇺🇸 🇺🇲
I think the issue people have is "what works for me? What do I actually need?" And the answer is "get training and experience. That will answer your question." But that is expensive. So people watch video makers and try to get answers and guidance.
I actually just ordered that exact H harness 4 days ago in RG. Im going to building one up very similar to yours, just looking for a decent buttpack. Has anyone tried the surplus aussi buttback?
I've spent the past few days thinking about attaching a couple 2X3 molle panels across the chest strap for a couple double mag pouches on the chest. Basically a mini swamp fox mated to the suspenders of LBE.
I have been eyeballing the attackpak system as a substitute for LBE + pack integration. Wondering if their frame sheet and alpha belt would work with the dg3 or if you lose the magic of the dg3 by changing the frame sheet.
I’m pretty much a noob to this gear with a very basic idea of what stuff is. Seems like it can get complicated trying to figure what you would need/want.
Water bladder in the pack along with either a couple of canteens/water bottles or a 2 quart. water bladder for on the move and bottles/canteens for when stationary.
Half the gear roulette you see on the internet is people who haven't figured out what works for what they're doing, either due to inexperience or they've changed what they're doing. The nixieworks rig's main failing in my mind is the stupidly oversized buttpack. Climbs up half your back and makes wearing anything bigger than a 15L daypack a pain. I think Brit style belt kit with numerous but similarly-sized GP pouches is better overall if you're married to the idea.
Wtf is 500mph tape? I have heard of and used extensively 100mph tape but not 500mph tape. Also, eagle hydration carrier will fit in the back of the Eagle H harness. Which is what I recommend. Hydrate or die. 100oz than 2 one quart canteens and boom you are good to go up to 18-24 hours for water in environments below 80°f above 80 you need more water especially if you doing extensive activity. The eagle hydration carrier is large enough for 2 that's 2 100oz bladders. Which is plenty of water for 24-36 hours. Good video nice selection of gear shown and some good advice given. Thank you!
Can you recommend a "minimalist" or (slightly) "slick" set-up for gals??? In my tribe, I've got my wife, 2 daughters, 2 daughters-in-law, 3 teenaged granddaughters who all shoot and are willing to fight. Not that we'd put them out, front-line, but IF it gets stupid, it's all hands and having a light rig may come in handy. My concern is their bodies are different than guys, so would that effect gear selection? Any suggestions?
Chicom chest rig. If I don't have any more context, and pretty much any situation, the Chicom chest rig is fantastic for almost anybody and is cheap. Otherwise, a "messenger bag" or "gas mask bag" can be used and will fit ANY body type. And is very minimal. And can be cheap.
Well John, I much prefer to see a video when someone has something to say, rather than those (whom I will not name here) who make that 2nd or 3rd video of the day just because they haven't heard themselves talk in 30 seconds... I have frankly stopped watching some people who from time to time have good content, just because of all the fluff... which I just don't have the time or desire to wade thru... so good on ya!
Luv your channel. I was in during the 70s. ALICE LBE was worn low in the field so the ALICE pack could sit on it. Fast forward to the Brits today. They wear their PLC low and their body armor over the PLC. Their Body armor is usually worn slick. And their assault pack can carry anything else. I still used the M56 canvas H harness but with a Condor gun belt now for years. I removed the metal hardware and replaced it with paracord long enough for any needed adjustments. And my ALICE pouches are zip tied and the MOLLE Pouches connect very easily to the gun belt. This arrangement has proven to be lightweight, strong enough, secure, and distributes the weight well. The Condor gun belt allows for quick adjustment for comfort, and for more or less clothing. No padding is needed. It also has a low profile. And I wear it low. So my plate carrier and ruck can go over it. I can easily carry all three levels of kit or less. I use 3 SAW pouches for sustainment or group items or ammo if needed, 2 multipurpose Canteen pouches, and 2 quad AR 15 pouches, and compass pouch on the belt. I no longer use my buttpack. Nothing wrong with the latest and greatest but it’s usually really expensive or not the right size pouches for what you need or want to carry, or closures are not the right size. I hope this post helps someone in customizing their gear inexpensively.
Good talk as always brother, nailed it. That 'itis is going around right now heh, hope you feel better soon.
Benefits of a CR- lighter (subjective) load to roll with and move fast, good for the other stuff you noted. Still better than having to lug a PC or IBA as the norm lol.
Benefits of an LBE- better load capacity, longer term sustainment, and the stuff you noted. Only things I don't like about the ALICE kit I was running in the early years of my Army time was the lack of adequate comfort/ padding on the waist, and having to tape or zip-tie secure the ACLICE clips because they are fallible and like to undo themselves at times. Fairly minimal issue but it needs to be addressed.
Current modernized and most easily accessible LBE's on the market:
- Tasmanian Tiger Warrior Belt Mk III (US/ German)
- Nixieworks Lightfighter Rig (US)
- Velocity Systems Jungle Kit (US)
- Genuine JayJay's Gen 4 Webbing (UK platform)
- MFH Pattern 83 SADF Style Battle Jacket (aftermarket Canadian/ Chinese made)
Surplus LBE's more commonly floating around on the market:
- ALICE Web Gear/ LBE (US)
- SMERSH Rig (Russian)
- Eagle Industries Belt Rig (US, they are awesome, I agree, wish they still made them)
- PLCE (British and Dutch)
- Pattern 83 SADF Battle Jacket (South African genuine Surplus)
For the algorithm, cheers.
My UW Gear rig is hands down the best rig I’ve owned, solid and bombproof, it’s my go to. I do have the Nixieworks rig, and it is fantastic, I really like it, and it’s for a total different use, you’ll really like it. Excellent video brother!
I was never in the military but I remember my Father giving me LBE gear when I was a kid in 80’s. I recall buckling on my leather 1911 flap holster & mag pouches. I put the the wound kits on the shoulder straps. I still have mine. To be honest, my “battle belt” is made out of an old school web belt.
Sorry late to the table, thanks for video! I've always considered the British PLCE & Russian Smersh the gold standarda of LBEs! Nice to see interest return. In hot & humid conditions I feel they shine even more. you can combine them with chest rig or plate carrier. If you see the latest pictures of Ukrainian soldiers in combat,you will see quite often, they combine their Smersh belt kit with a plate carrier. Carrying crap ton of mags & grenades for trench warfare.
Russian Smersh molle, comes with a good set of pouches already and has room to add water storage, and can run a bladder if you prefer, and can in turn run a 3 day pack with it if you like. I have one and i really like it especially if you want to swap the older pouches out for newer speed pouches. Its a comfortable harness with molle so you have all the new pouches available.
Great note on keeping the back clean and wearing a separate pack. I forsee someone making an LBE and pack set soon enough. Lots of improvements in both to combine.
Great video John.
I heavily modified an ALICE LBE into a belt rig with a 3 mag chest pouch attached.
It's called the Risky Recondo Rig, or Amersh (American Smersh).
LBE starting to make a comeback as people realize how much more comfortable and practical it is for outdoor foot mobile use.. I’ll this plate carrier and chest rig stuff is for vehicle mobile ops.. once you got to start carrying all your own resupply instead of ammo cans in the rear of a vehicle we are going back to LBE and Alice tyoe systems..
I used modern gear to make a new lbe jungle belt type setup not long ago.. 3 row modern molle belt with an actual old school web belt inside lol.. no need for a $80 cobra belt the old gi web belts are plenty good and durable and cost $10.. used an actual Alice field pack/butt pack in the rear..
Went single Pistol, double rifle, 100rnd saw, fold up dump pouch under those, Nalgene not canteen, field pack, Nalgene again, 200rnd saw as gp, then another 100rnd saw then another single pistol.. I have the old cheap universal drop leg holster too.. don’t care for crap flapping around in my legs but it works..
The 100rnd saw can fit 4 30’s tight or 3 30’s comfortably..
The issue with modern h harness is they aren’t really conducive to use with a true field pack and keeping them from sagging.. shitty as it is the condor H harness works well.. instead of using the rear belt d rings I hooked into the field pack like the old LBE would’ve been..
The Nalgene over canteen is cause they have nice pouches and the shape with the side molle I had to have for the field pack.. I’m 30” waist so to fit everything I had to use the outer column on each Nalgene for the outs attachments of the field pack so it would ride right and fit everything I wanted it to fit.. plus the Nalgene take up one less column.. with 30” waist I only get 16 columns to work with and really only 12-14 usable cause some ends up in front..
I can if need be throw on a micro chest rig wo interference issues fir more.. I can throw on my plate carrier but I can have issues getting into the bigger pouches off the waistline..
I went this way more so cause I wanted to size down a ruck and have more basic items on body..
The only problem is if you’re carrying a large ruck you got to go to a chest harness in order to use the kidney belt.. so my entire thought process was be able to size down to a simple assault pack where this isn’t an issue..
Hah you actually talking like this now with the TT setup.. this is exactly my setup only I went with all gp style pouches other then the first double rifle is a modern fast mag tyoe setup.. sgl mag x2 over 4 columns no flap or bungee retention..
The one thing I want the option of and I’m still figuring out how to do this properly.. I want the option to add a hydration sleeve to the harness.. unless you go with a full back molle harness there isn’t anyone who makes something for this.. even the full back molle harness leave the bottom flopping all over.. I got a full open back for breathing so all I got is the top shoulder straps and the bottoms webbing where it holds up the field pack in the rear to work with.. I know the things I need just yet to find the proper parts to put it together.. I know they make those shallow and wide 1.5l minis but I want a full 3l. Like you I’m in the south and 100% humidity and 96* half the year you can’t ever have too much water.. 7-8l is the bar min for a single day here.. that’s two canteen/Nalgene, bladder in assault pack and then that leaves 2-3l short.. another 3l on the harness would be ideal vs taking up space in a small pack with more water..
I lived out of an LBE belt for many, many days.
I've been waiting for LBE to make a comeback!
I see hunter rigs looking more and more like LBE rigs.
@Wastelandman7000 hell yeah...hunters are pushing gear and gun set ups right now.
John as you know, I have your chest rig(s) and you have helped me get it right for me and I love it. I also have my original issue ALICE LBE from when I was a platoon leader, it has as many jumps as I do. Great video!
Thank you for the info on the Eagle H Harness. I' ve been using an LBE set up since the 90's . I use them for hiking and regular out door activity and i have my Minute Man load out. Its what works for me , its my decades of muscle memory .
I was issued the LBV-88 which also used the ALICE equipment. It's the early chest rig that the US used. The good thing about the LBV is that it is easier put on and take off, with the front closure. We would use the LBV with and without body armor. It's just as good as anything out there.
Family first, work when you can, be grateful. Good video! Train for 'your' situation in your environment. I've always thought ALICE gear was replaced with the advent of 'body armor' which during it's development ended up being a platform to attach gear to. During GWOT the increased use of armored vehicles like Humvees necessitated wearing gear towards the front of the body to be able to sit in the vehicle seats. MOLLE gear (initially the FLC worn over 'slick' body armor) made that much easier. The wearing of 'chest rigs' grew out of the TAPS panels worn first by the Rangers (I believe) to quickly change the loadout (or add to) they needed while wearing plate carrier vests. Civilians tend not to wear body armor so harness straps were added to TAPS panels and 'chest rigs' became the minimalist trend. As stated - to each their own but verify.
Thank you for being real. What works not what looks cool. I like both and hate both but need to get the job done is all that matters to me. Thank you very much for being real.
Good video and options , thanks for sharing , God bless !
Ebay is a great place to look. British PLCE complete beltkit can often be found for less than a hundred bucks.
ALICE is still my girl.
Outstanding. The "flannel faction" 😂
John, I wish you a speedy recovery!
"If you are in a firefight that you didnt plan for or initiate, its an ambush"- cant remember who.
I remember some of our Battalion Scout teams would wear their LBE just a bit higher than their belly button so they would not have to make long motions to get to gear on a patrol.
I personally use a Condor Gen II Battle Belt with a Condor H Harness. I use this setup for range use or if going through the woods when its really hot. I also have a Shellback Tactical plate carrier for different missions. I also use a pistol, which I am very well trained with from my time as a LEO and SWAT training. I like a LBE type setup because I trained a lot with it in my early military days in the light infantry.
I've been looking for the KarrimorSF modernized version of the South African Pattern 83 battle vest for years.
Haven't seen a single one for sale. I really like the setup. Guess I'll have to make my own 👍
I like alice gear but having to dial it in perfectly for whatever I'll be wearing underneath and then tape every strap and clasp and ziptie every alice clip is awful tedious. Molle stuff tends to be heavier and bulky.
So, sewn in pouches aren't that bad once you train it. The LBV88 is a good example, I like the angled mag pouches on the chest way more than a vertical molle double pouches.
Great video man, lots of good points. Subscribed! 🇺🇲
I want to thank you for this video. I have been watching and researching as much as i can to try and find a solution to wanting to have LBE but can wear with very slick chest rig and its gonna be alot cheaper than a velocity systems jungle rig
At jaeger course, I ran paired up helikon guardian and foxtrot with extra GP pouches. Lots of space to carry smokes, water, etc for that class that was vast majority foot patrol. The following weekend, the foxtrot buttpack was getting me hung up running vehicle dismount drills.
Tl/Dr: LBE great for foot patrol +/- chest rig. Chest rig great for vehicle mounted activities. Recommend modularity and (some) redundancy.
Great info and u are 100% correct. Where i live in the tropics (jungle) where the avg temp is 87 u can not use body armor or large chest rigs, heat stroke will kill first before a bullet. The equipment u should use is what is best for your area of operation and the lighter it is the better. Remembre the saying KISS.
I run an Eagle Ind War Belt with an Eagle buttpack that is like a mini ALICE pack. I use it just like John sid, with the patrol pack, I don't need a full ruck. Good video.
Good to see you back in action. Drop leg options exist that work with LBE rigs. It complicates running, but it’s an option.
I run a complete NOS Alice webbing. I also have the lbv-88e that I sometimes use. I prefer Alice though. Especially with the belt pad. Running a medium Alice ruck with frame, and m81 cover for ruck.
Winter Or Colder Dry Weather Is Great For Chest Rig-Up's And Being Stealthy Incognito! Now Reconing In A Humid Or Southwest Desert In Daytime For Training (Normally, You'd Want To Creep At Night, Not In The Daytime Peak Heat!) Prevent Heating Up Sweating At Night, While Moving At Pace To Prevent Hypothermia! I Definitely Prefere L.B.E Type Rig's With Plenty Of Water Carring Capabilities From Camelbak's, Canteens And A Belt Tow Rig For A Beach Wagon Full Of Water, Hand Pumps, Filters And For Dehydrated Casualties, Lol!
😎 🇺🇸
Well said man! LBE definitely can be a nice to have but chest rigs still work and sometimes are the better choice. Pretty fond of my Nixieworks rig but at the end of the day it’s just a tool to help me accomplish whatever i need to do
I like having a chest rig, for speedy reload, in combination with a British style PLCE belt kit for sustainment out in the field. I think this setup is the best to allow having a lighter day pack since some weight is distributed to the hip area.
Been working on piecing a similar system together for a couple weeks... good stuff. I've really given it some thought so I'm not wasting money cuz I need at least 2 of these kits, 1 for One Shepherd and 1 for my at home camo pattern of choice. I think I've got a good picture in my head of how I'm going to kit it out
Make sure you dont have a sinus infection as if not treated, could lead to other things going bad.
The All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment (ALICE) is a set of load-carrying equipment adopted as United States Army Standard A on 17 January 1973. The LBV-Load Bearing Vest came out to wear over the the older versions ballistic armor, then came the molle plate carriers.
I had the blackhawk version of that eagle H harness, the shoulder straps chafed really bad, so it got sold.
Thank you for being real.
Thank you!👍
To each their own. I actually prefer ALICE type web rigs. Mostly because I live in a wet environment. and if I have to dive face first into the mud to avoid being shot I don't want to drag my ammo through the mud. I'm pretty sure Murphy would bite me in the ass with a malfunction.
Not saying Murphy would get any of you, just me. About how my life goes LOL
TRIVIA: In one episode of 'Magnum, P.I.', he wears a Vietnam-era LBE rig on a day hike. 😎
I have an old M1956 H-harness LBE rig, and I far prefer it over chest rigs; though I would like an OD LBV for carrying extra Freedom if ever needed. My issue with chest rigs is that they would get between me and the sweet, sweet cover of earth if I ever had to go prone for protection!
I think one of the sources of chest-rig popularity was the cheap Chinese chest pouches that came in pre-2000, plus the comfort and convenience when riding in vehicles. Throw in their practicality with modern plate carriers and body armor and it's easy to see why they became so popular. I guess I'm a dinosaur...
If a chest rig is getting in the way of going prone, you're wearing it wrong.
@@AlphaCharlieConcepts I'm sure a good part of it is that I'm a dinosaur...😎
I will insist on cringing, though, when someone has double-stacked mags and other gear sticking out front of themselves...🙂
Oh no doubt... some folks put a full storage shelf out in front of themselves.
@AlphaCharlieConcepts so what is the proper way to wear it? I have mine set so the top of the magazines sit just below pecs or nipple height lmao
Nixieworks makes a great product and is run by a great dude
For your coined "Area Denial Weapon" or I believe the Automactic Rifleman role LBE makes alot of sense to me . A weapon primarily used in the prone on a bipod or a fixed fighting position. You are using larger size mags for one thing and if they are in a chest rig you will probably be laying on them . Accessing mags from your side makes alot of sense. Thanks for the information.
For your area denial, consider what role you are in.
In an assault type role are you going to be prone?
For a static position (overwatch, defense) shouldn't your mags be on the ground besides the weapon while you are prone? Why not keep them out and accessable while prone. Or use a friend as a loader/ammo carrier.
Just things to consider. Do what works.
I am trying out a FLC vest and wearing a tradition Alice LBE set. Feels good. A lot of strap adjustments and pouch movements involved. Insuring that one pouch does not cover/block the other pouch. Imaging, two rows of equipment. I could of used the LBV 88 system however, I find there is limited space on the pistol belt once it is attached the the LBV vest.
Thank you😺
Awesome content man! I've been slowly piecing together my belt kit for many of the same reasons you listed. A chest rig and pack don't work very well in the field when I have to carry a med bag as well. Hoping the belt kit in conjunction with an SOE buttpack can cover the fighting and sustainment load while freeing up my back for the med bag. Keep it coming!
Every time I see a ACC vid pop up in my notifications, I hold my breath, hoping this will be the notice that I can, after sooo long waiting, order a SwampFox 4 Rig..maybe even a SwampFox 8....
RockOn.StayFree.
"Context" is the most important word in the English language.
Thanks for the video. I hope you get well soon.
If I'm honest with myself and my skill-set, I should be emulating a 91B with a little bit of kit on my lbe and maybe a slung rifle, versus some tier 1 operator who's operating operationally. I'll just be behind making sure their wheels are squared away for them.
Edit: I've always thought it was ok to plus-up my basic ass lbe/battle-belt with a plate carrier with a few more things was just normal if circumstances said so.
All the best to you and your family. Glad to see you again, having fun. All work and no play makes jack a dull boy. high speed gear has great belts. tactical tailor makes best alice frame. Fire force butt packs are good to go (not fire force ventures different company.)
Goo video as always John
Amen! I want to here more about what's coming. I have a friend that gives me Intel every once in awhile and he's telling me that it's a rigged chess game ,there is alot more for another time. I rock L.B.E and some of it is from the 60's 70's 80's and early 2000's. Alice is the way.
As always, mission dictates the gear. LBE is hard to beat when moving distance on foot, since it distributes weight across the body and takes advantage of body mechanics, while chest rigs are much better when you're in vehicles, and they're convenient when you're not carrying much weight. Of course, it's not unrealistic to combine the two; a stripped-down chest rig or plate carrier with only the basics you absolutely need, and a heavy LBE you can throw on top as necessary.
As another poster mentioned, the Russian SMERSH rig is pretty good, especially for the price, since building the US equivalent costs more than twice as much and usually requires piecing it together from multiple sources, though US nylon is more specialized and of better quality.
Another LBE option is British PLCE, their belts are hard sewn together, but they're very, very good, and built with wearing a pack in mind. The rear pouches are set up to let you rest your ruck on them to take some weight off your shoulders. Problem is that their belts are extremely wide/tall, and they get real warm, real quick.
I don't have issues with mounting small packs to LBE or plate carriers, but I build them with quick access in mind; you have to set up some QD buckles to hold it up, I used retrofit cobra buckles for the shoulder mounts to carry the weight, and fastex for the sides to hold it in place. Not as convenient as an actual pack, but it's one less layer on your shoulders/chest, and less annoying for shouldering a rifle. Does take an extra moment to reattach, though. Seen it done where you reverse the pack when attaching it, disconnect the side buckles, and just flip the whole thing over your head to hang it over your chest for access.
For us poors, the FLC (Flick) is pretty hard to beat. Alice gear is great too, it’s just hard to find at good prices anymore.
Had to look what that is and turns out it's what I got. I like it spray paint does wonders
I'll go as far as to say that for almost every situation a citizen may find them selves in other than Combat - a ALICE or PLCE style harness would be better. The chest rig is great for combat, and its excellent when you have the US military logistic train behind you and a million POGs building Fobs and maintaining your transportation and keeping track of your calorie and hydration levels for you - but are you, a citizen who doesn't have the US military support, going to go on a 10 mile hike in southern heat in a what amounts to a 20 lb sweater vest.
Of course ALICE isn't going to get you a lot of likes on Instagram. There is nothing hot and sexy about it, doesn't have that tier-1 energy.
I've changed my stuff so much I've
Gone stupid 🥴
I'm going nuts 🤪
Constantly changing s*** JUST can't seem to get anything right tearing my gear up putting it back together. doing this & doing that I have most problem of placing antenna and comms... and gun strap hanging up on stuff DRIVING NUTS!
I was sitting around a few months ago and rethought my entire kit. Why emulate what i used in the military where i had support and a huge group of other very well trained individuals? I thought better to look at Myanmar fighters or Vietnamese and other non conventional fighters, all they used was a $20 milsurp chicom and a back pack (sometimes not even a bag)
Whats worked extremely well for me has been a 7 cell Parashooter gear Pathfinder where i only run 5-7 mags a tq and an socp knife. Shooters belt where i have more ammo, 2 admin pouches, pistol, meds and then if i need anything big that can fit the belt it goes in a small bulloch pack. Imo only things that should be on ur chest or belt are things to take life and things to save life. Unless ur running alice kit only but i found having too much weight around my hips hindered me while running and flexibility
Sinus crud happens man. Don't worry about the snorting and coughing.
Iam a 53 yr old former Marine, gear whore. I cut my teeth on ALICE, went through the LBE and MOLLE webs, now back to leather because I got bored and it's beautiful and warm, lol.
Belt and suspenders is the Cadillac gear
As a Navy Seabee 89-99. I wore Alice gear. We were basically riflemen. So no pistols for majority of the enlisted men.
IMO the switch to battle belts and or chest rigs/plate carriers in the civilian sector is because everyone wants to carry their pistol with them. Which is a good thing.
Thank you. Keep up the good work. I have a few chest rigs I have purchased and tried out. And I always go back to my old school LBV. I trained on and used. With my own modifications lol. Thank you. Again in your store do you have mag pouches for the 12ga. 10 round magazine pouches???
I wouldn't wear lbe directly on or below your hips.
I've been using my belt kit for over a year, and anything fighting load or over on the weight side is going to feel like a pissed off 5 year old is attempting judo take downs on you.
Adjust your suspenders so the buckle of your belt connects at or just below your belly button. That will naturally rest your belt on top of your hips and give you better balance and mobility.
I've been wearing it for a little over 30 years... so I'm going to have to disagree. But again, each to his own.
I really wish people would stop saying "work good." It's "work well." 😂😂 JK, keep up the well work.
I like the lbv88 type vest
Unused MOLLE slots are the seductive temptresses of those wth tactical OCD.
Get well!
Thoughts on the Nixieworks LFR? I have the old molle2 double pouches upfront, followed by 100rd saw pouches. I carry two 2qt canteens in the back and a bivvy roll underneath.
I don't have any first hand experience with them, but I would love to check one out. My biggest concern based off what I've seen/read is that their buttpack might be a bit too large.
Looking for a youth sized h harness any advise? Can you make by chance? The shoulder straps are to long and the back piece is always to wide placing the straps on outer part of shoulder and to low on my hip/belt vs on my gut.
Usually end up having to settle with the taps y strap system for a close fit but even then the front is a touch long with those straps and for h harnesses about 4 inches to long...
You are totally correct there are 4 rigs people should have
A get out quick rig
A food to run rig
A fighting rig with ammo
A 3 day daily rig that will give you time to get away to a safe distance . Hide. And gather info to go back and get your sfuff back
I have a well planned rig system for my entire family
Every rig has minimal impact
Water 3 litres Food 3 to 5 days worth . Medical. Ammo
I can grab any rig and be confident it will get me home except wwe aŕe not allowed armour plates here so 40 layers of kevlar works well up to 308
STAY SAFE EVERYONE
How far are you out on filling orders ??? Just dont't wont to fall into the cracks ... Thanks John ...
Still quite a ways, but getting them out as quick as I can.
The entire gun & gear industry is a mountain made out of a mole hill 😆. As you stated, get what suits your needs and become extremely proficient in it. Good stuff as always bro. See you soon, stay safe 🇺🇸 🇺🇲
I think the issue people have is "what works for me? What do I actually need?"
And the answer is "get training and experience. That will answer your question."
But that is expensive. So people watch video makers and try to get answers and guidance.
I have a Chest rig but I would like a LB rig also. Great information and video. Get well soon 🙏 and FJB 🖕
I actually just ordered that exact H harness 4 days ago in RG.
Im going to building one up very similar to yours, just looking for a decent buttpack.
Has anyone tried the surplus aussi buttback?
I've spent the past few days thinking about attaching a couple 2X3 molle panels across the chest strap for a couple double mag pouches on the chest. Basically a mini swamp fox mated to the suspenders of LBE.
I like my FLC
I have been eyeballing the attackpak system as a substitute for LBE + pack integration. Wondering if their frame sheet and alpha belt would work with the dg3 or if you lose the magic of the dg3 by changing the frame sheet.
Hallo vriende ☆ I wear soft armor to the grocery store here in the RSA.
I’m pretty much a noob to this gear with a very basic idea of what stuff is. Seems like it can get complicated trying to figure what you would need/want.
It can. Best is to try and keep things simple, until you sort out what your wanting to accomplish and how.
Try rush and rolling in a chest rig. Hell, try low crawling in a chest rig. I've lost so much gear over the years, I trust my life to LBE.
Do it all the time and have for years. No issues personally.
Where is your water? Are you carrying a 2 quart instead of bottles?
Water bladder in the pack along with either a couple of canteens/water bottles or a 2 quart. water bladder for on the move and bottles/canteens for when stationary.
What works for one might not work for another. I broke my back and it didn't heal right. I can't wear LBE. Have to wear chest rigs
Sorry to hear that.
Do whatever works.
Do you think assault vest will make a comeback someday?
Would you ever place your belt on your pack?
#GetOnGab
Half the gear roulette you see on the internet is people who haven't figured out what works for what they're doing, either due to inexperience or they've changed what they're doing.
The nixieworks rig's main failing in my mind is the stupidly oversized buttpack. Climbs up half your back and makes wearing anything bigger than a 15L daypack a pain. I think Brit style belt kit with numerous but similarly-sized GP pouches is better overall if you're married to the idea.
BTW, those pants are noisy!
🤟🇺🇲
I'll say it till I'm blue in the face. I HATE MICRO RIGGERS I HATE MICRO RIGGERS I HATE MICRO RIGGERS
You should do a podcast. Because all you do is talk
And yet, here you are.
Wtf is 500mph tape? I have heard of and used extensively 100mph tape but not 500mph tape. Also, eagle hydration carrier will fit in the back of the Eagle H harness. Which is what I recommend. Hydrate or die. 100oz than 2 one quart canteens and boom you are good to go up to 18-24 hours for water in environments below 80°f above 80 you need more water especially if you doing extensive activity. The eagle hydration carrier is large enough for 2 that's 2 100oz bladders. Which is plenty of water for 24-36 hours. Good video nice selection of gear shown and some good advice given. Thank you!
Can you recommend a "minimalist" or (slightly) "slick" set-up for gals??? In my tribe, I've got my wife, 2 daughters, 2 daughters-in-law, 3 teenaged granddaughters who all shoot and are willing to fight. Not that we'd put them out, front-line, but IF it gets stupid, it's all hands and having a light rig may come in handy. My concern is their bodies are different than guys, so would that effect gear selection? Any suggestions?
Chicom chest rig. If I don't have any more context, and pretty much any situation, the Chicom chest rig is fantastic for almost anybody and is cheap.
Otherwise, a "messenger bag" or "gas mask bag" can be used and will fit ANY body type. And is very minimal. And can be cheap.