![]() In exchange, they are simple, and in some cases, disposable. Minimalist chest rigs are typically designed to meet a specific goal, and so are not as configurable to different scenarios. Able to be concealed under a jacket or hoodie, they fit the clandestine nature of counter-insurgency, as well as bank robberies. Recently represented by the Spiritus Systems Bank Robber and the Unobtanium Gear Dank Robber, the lightweight category is built for the covert nature of many modern conflicts. Even as they are divided between light, medium, and heavy chest, each addresses a different scenario altogether. Three distinct types stand out, each emerging to address different problems. Now it wouldn’t be fair to lump all chest rigs together and simply grade them on quality. Military continues to in field chest rigs, especially in reconnaissance-related activities. Since then, the influence can be seen in the way plate carriers developed, adapting to both mounted patrols and dismounted special operations simultaneously. This is where the Rhodesian Bush War comes in, as the Selous Scouts and similar forces popularized the chest rig as it facilitated reloading a rifle in the confines of a vehicle. Army’s ALICE system worked well to reduce the weight an individual soldier would carry, but what worked in the field didn’t always work in the passenger seat. The size and curvature of AK-47 style magazines denied the use of belt-mounted carrying systems.Īnother key integration came about when cars, trucks, and tanks appeared on the scene. The U.S. While the Rhodesians are often credited with creating the chest rig during their Bush War, it was the Chinese Communists that first fielded them during the Viet Nam conflict. As industrialized militaries adjusted their gear and tactics, the chest rig came about through the proliferation of AK-47 pattern rifles, the integration of contemporary vehicles, and specialized small-unit tactics. Two historical elements influenced and inspired the development of the chest rig, all such taking place in the latter half of the 20th century. A product of modern warfare, where battles are fought more in skirmishes, than grand assaults, in streets, not trenches, the lightweight and easy-to-produce piece of kit has evolved to fit the needs of the operator, the hunter, and the terrorist.Ībove: The S&S Precision Chest Rig-Modular represents an example of using modern manufacturing and materials to create a uniquely advanced piece of kit with one of the best fit and most space for attaching mission-essential equipment. Even before the placard system was popularized on plate carriers, a chest rig could easily be worn over body armor. One of the greatest advantages of a chest rig is its scalability. – Kilcullen, David Counterinsergency. Narrated by Peter Ganim. The enemy will carry a rifle, or RPG, a shemagh, and a water bottle, if he is lucky.” “You will be weighed down with body armor, rations, extra ammumition, communications gear, and a thousand other things. A plate carrier is objectively better at stopping a bullet than a chest rig, but in relation to most scouting operations, ends up being a possible mission-crippling burden. We’re often sent looking for the best piece of gear only to be reminded that there are objective and subjective elements in play. We’ve talked before about some of the history of load-bearing equipment such as a bullet proof vest, and even as gear development goes through phases and cycles centered around the current situation, we are reminded the real world is very different than the “current meta” in a video game. Whether for situations of civil unrest or scouting for feral hogs: where ammo and other gear might be carried, where mobility and stealth are higher priorities, a chest rig might be the right answer. ![]() ![]() For those not in such positions, it can be tempting to spend time and money on gear, hoping that the possession of such equipment will inspire or create opportunities to use it. Before this principle can be followed, the objective itself must be clearly defined and established. It’s important for those in the line of duty, and those in charge of gear acquisition, to remember that the mission drives gear. History and Origins Chest Rig Types Light/Minimalist Chest Rig Mid-Weight/Recce Chest Rigs Heavy/Expedition Level Chest Rig Closing Considerations MORE ON CHEST RIGS, BODY ARMOR, AND TACTICAL GEAR
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