For anyone looking I think EODfish does a lot better plate carrier reviews. There are a lot of fair criticisms here but I also don’t think a lot of them make sense. There’s simultaneous praise and criticism of the modularity and some of the main cons are that it’s a paid to change the carrier to fit other people. The cost is definitely prohibitive for some and while they do restocks pretty regularly, it can be hard to just order one. While I may personally think the ARC should be ranked a lot higher, the real crime is seeing Agilite carriers ranked #1. Edit: I also find it kind of strange that it’s a load bearing carrier, and marketed as one, but yet ranked in the slimline carrier category.
Had several different plate carriers issued through the military, and I’ve messed around with high end stuff like JPC’s, and still own an HRT Tactical RAC carrier. Shaw’s ARC v2 is the best carrier I’ve ever had. Cannot say enough good things about the thought and designs around this carrier. Running the placard, the admin pouch, and the Raid pouch as a dangler give you enough space to carry everything you’ll ever need and still keeps the carrier slim up front. Shaw Concepts to the fuckin moon baby!
Digging on the lash style cummerbunds was a weird criticism. Yeah they suck to set up but when they are it’s superior to even the cummerbunds with built on stretch because you can just replace the shock cord when it gets worn out instead of buying a whole new cummerbund when it gets worn out
Ok I'll give you that. But if you have the bank for this carrier, you can replace a cummerbund. The bungee lashing just makes it seem lazy compared to the rest of it. It's also weird to say you can save money with this.....I'd much rather pay extra at this point, not save a few bucks later.
Shock cord is the industry standard because: - Shock cord wont fail if it gets wet. - Shock cord is easily replaceable. - Shock cord is not that hard to set up, if your IQ is within one standard deviation. So I do not see anything wrong about it.
Great review. Pretty much agree with everything. I have this plate carrier and could not be more pleased. It is by far the most comfortable and configurable carrier I have ever worn. Also, Shaw Concepts is a great company to do business with.
I got the placard with the new quad insert and have it with the Arc chest rig harness. Pretty sweet set up so far and is nice to throw on over my Defense Mechanisms carrier
Arc v2 assembly is the reason i havent done any gear assembly for a year. And the cbund attachment is the same as crye jpc with the option to use diff attachment methods offered by other companies which is awesome. Try finding that from lbt who still sell there out dated 6094 and refuse to update the actual vest and still charge premium price for it. Arc v2 is worth the cost and is more comparible to a midernized lbt 6094 in its complete form and is in the same price range but i dont have to spend 1k to modernize it
oh my word I'm with you, that 6094 is crazy priced and a bulky bit of trash. I had one and sold it. It was just a dated design. And I hear you on the cummberbund setup. I would run that ARC v2 with the Agilite warfighter cummberbund for a totally bonkers setup. Defense Mechanisms is doing a structural elastic 'bund soon too though. I do love that Shaw allowed for the hook and loop systems though. I probably should have given them more credit for that.
The 6094 is a great comparison that I never considered, I have two ARC V2's (as well as a T3 Trident Gear Tomahawk, Shellback Tactical Banshee Elite 2.0, Agilite K19, and Firstspear AAC V2) and the closest comparison I can legitimately make is the similarities between my SC ARC V2's and my FS AAC V2 (similar price, size, weight, load capacity and both utilize FS tubes.) There are subtle distinguishing factors, although for the price paid between the two options, you get more of your money's worth with the SC ARC V2 (hence why I picked up two of them)
I remember seeing you talk about this on Reddit with someone because they were freaking out about how good it is. Still went with the SPC because of your prior videos. Informative as always!
@@ThinLineDefenseCo I agree. I looked at the Shaw Concepts and my wallet screamed in fear from across the room. The SPC setup utilizes the AXL cummerbund and it’s been super comfy. I’m considering the AXL shoulder pads as well but the SPC shoulder pads aren’t too bad right now.
I love it, and especially love it now that there's a sidekick V2 for it that allows more options besides Safariland pattern retention bolts. I now have the Usurper with both a Sidekick V1 for use with my Safariland holster when I'm using my Surefire X300U, and my G-Code holster on a Sidekick V2 for when I'm using my DBAL-PL on my 92X RDO for use with NODs. There seriously isn't a better battle belt on the market, I switched from my Ferro Bison belt to it and have never looked back.
Came across this review in my quest to find a plate carrier to more or less side-grade to from my Crye AVS. Which as fantastic as it is, I want something a bit more low profile, that splits the difference between the JPC and AVS. I had been looking at the First Spear Strandhogg, and even picked up a cheap salty V1 to try out while looking for either a new V2/V3 Strandy, or something similar. I've been running the Shaw pads for a while now, and I remembered they had the ARC V2. It seems like the ARC V2 is trying to improve on things that First Spear is doing, for a slightly better price. Though the cummerbund being bungie corded does leave something to be desired, but at least they give you the option for a velcro attachment system if so desired. Just by reading the comments, and even taking the review as "This is great if you aren't buying your first carrier" type of deal, it seems like a solid option.
Alright that's it, we need a AVS review from you now. Im SUPPER interested in hearing what you think of the AVS's loadbearing ability as someone whose had experience with other inexpensive, newer carriers like the LBAC and K19.
Was the red T-shirt selected on purpose or by accident? The color contrast with the Multi-cool camo was actually nice. Helped see the size of the carrier. Edit: This video showed in my feed just 18 hours after being posted. That’s better than the month to six weeks YT normally hides your videos.
I didn't think i would find anything that i liked more than my Firstspear AAC V2 (especially considering it being even more expensive than the ARC V2), however i ended up picking up an ARC V2 in black for work (uniform dictates a black pc), i enjoyed it so much, i picked up another ARC V2 in my typical go to wolf grey. The fact that Shaw utilizes Firstspear tubes is the icing on the cake.
@ThinLineDefenseCo I did pick up a K19 a few years back due to your positive review of it, and I agree that it is an incredibly comfortable load bearing pc with a full kit in tow, the biggest downfall that I attribute to the K19 is the utter lack of integrated comms routing, which would often result in my clipping my PTT onto whatever shirt I was wearing underneath the carrier, which was simply unacceptable being that I was using it in a workplace capacity. After my K19 I picked up my FS AAC V2 in a mixture of "Manatee Gray" and "Adaptive Green" due to a lack of matching pattern options when accessorizing (wanna talk about pricey!), which I thoroughly enjoy, however with a career transition, found myself in need of a new carrier in black (enter the ARC V2), and for a little less than what my FS AAC V2 cost me, I found what I consider to be the pinnacle of plate carrier design and functionality that perfectly justifies the cost, especially considering the fact that it was cheaper than my beloved FS AAC V2. There is one thing that I do love about my FS AAC that is distinguishable from the ARC V2 and any other PC on the market, and that is the ingenuity in the design of the FS VEP backpack (do yourself a favor and look into it if you haven't already @ThinLineDefenseCo )
The arc v2 is great… but the Ferro concepts fcpc v5 is the best one I’ve worn. Plus the side armor on it is incredibly comfortable and realistic. About the same price as Shaw but with side armor
Seems like your favorite carriers are still the SPC and MEPC. Is there one that you preferred hauling on your runs? Seems like the SPC with added accessories distributes weight better but is very expensive and a bit difficult to setup. Whereas the MEPC is good enough, more budget friendly and a bit easier to customize. Is that accurate? Anything else you would add? Current trying to decide between these two. Thanks!
No one ever mentions Tyr Tactical. High-end kit you should consider. They recently won a few federal LE contracts. Cool video, and thanks for making it.
Have you ever considered getting the dfndr qrc2.0 carrier and doing a review there’s not very many reviews on TH-cam so it could be a good review I think it’s a good price and it comes with everything so you don’t have to piece it together
Agreed but at that price point you're close to high tier so you may as well get a Shaw or Javlin at that point. For 350, that's a hard pill to swallow. Particularly with a non-rigid cummerbund and not even first spear tubes connections. I don't even understand where the cost is coming from. For 150 I'd say it's great, 250 maybe but there are a lot heavy hitters at that price. 350.....bro -Walsh edit: wait...a full molle front panel? is that removable? It better be removable.
@@ThinLineDefenseCo yea the front Molle is removable for other placards and idk from what I’ve seen it’s up there in lightest carrier and I’m assuming it’s meant to be ran in a slick configuration
Lolz I was thinking the same. I'm 6'0 and just placed an order on a S/M after a lot of research and saw the perfect L/XL fit on Walsh and thought, 'Ruh-roh...' I ain't got dem boulder shoulders, doe.
Did not realize Baer solutions has a gun belt…..have you seen it or plan on doing a review on it? I know there is so many belts out now but I was just curious. Thanks
How do you like it with the add on soft armor package that connects to the velcro inside. Looking at this for a "heavy" active shooter setup when i take off my outer carrier. Or a call in setup.
I LOVE that setup. I actually pulled the plates and have it setup that way now. I'll do a video on it but it would be a perfect car or truck setup because it's not very heavy or anything -Walsh
Is the ARC longer overall than the K-Zero? I’d assume it would be a tad taller if it can take XL plates. I have a longer torso and while I like the K-Zero am considering changing to something a hair bigger.
I am really looking forward to investing in this plate carrier. Expensive, yes. likely worth it? Will let you know. Great review and cons certainly noted!
@@ThinLineDefenseCo Stock is definitely an issue, "product drops" are an absolute pain in the ass (not a fan, and no pre-orders for Law-Enforcement). I went with a Templar's Gear Cataphract (with Level-IIIA soft-armor and plates) with Shaw Concepts placard complete (in the interim). Looks like I'll get a Multi-Cam and Ranger Green ARC V2 through the course of next year (waiting and being patient is going to be a test in and of itself).
Honestly... probably not. It's like 1200 dollars assembled and that's stupid. If it's being issued, enjoy it. For half that cost you can get a Shaw. For 1/4 you can get a HRT LBAC. The crye avs doesn't make sense unless someone else is paying the bill. -Walsh
@@ThinLineDefenseCo not necessarily. I have seen fairly complete ones used in great condition go for less than what the ARC costs new. For that price it seems to bring very unique capabilities to the table. But I understand, I wouldn't be able to justify buying it brand new either.
Our angle is also more the starter or everyday man's perspective. It would be really hard to recommend and even if we did review it, it would be near the bottom of the list purely based on cost as a new consumer wouldn't even consider that. But one day it would be fun to review some of these other carriers....maybe even wreck em lol
@@ThinLineDefenseCo I had the impression that you review high end mil spec equipment as well from your Ops-Core AMP and High Cut helmet reviews. That's a really good idea! I would love to see that.
@@oliverpasztor788 I think that a fair point, especially because the avs is the gold standard wich a other load bearing carriers should be compared to. But I think they would have to reevaluate their ranking on the k19, if they ever used one. I also think that cost shouldn't play that big of a role, because quality kit will last you a long time. I am still using my JPC 1.0, so it cost me like 20€ per year...
This is some top notch manufacturing right here; I have Haley Strategic's D3CR X chest rig, which is $200, & I love it , however I specifically didn't want a "plate carrier" for armor, so it's really just for carrying tools & eight magazines.
That makes sense, a chest rig would be the best option. But I'm curious, with 8 mags wouldn't you want some level of protection? Seems like a lot of rounds for hunting hogs....
Complaints about price, valid Complaints about availability, valid Complaints about shoulder strap adjustment, wild. The shoulder straps are sized accordingly with the plate bags. If you want narrower the S/M would accommodate but typically shoulder straps are never adjusted after being properly set even with layer changes Complaints about cummerbund adjustment, Wild. You chose to go with a fixed cummerbund setup the standard practice is to set and forget rear bag cummerbund placement and if layering is expected then adjust off of the velcro under the placard. This is so layers can be added and removed very quickly. Double velcro secured cummerbunds are great for certain applications but for example the one you showed off would be non field serviceable whereas the arc cummerbunds just require a piece of cordage. This is your video, you knew you’d get hate, but it seems absolutely insane to rank how you did without a massive bolded asterisk which is you’re not evaluating purely on carrier performance but also on affordability and availability. Not that you don’t make that well known but the screenshot of “these are my top carriers” agilite isn’t even berry complaint except for government required contracts. Hrt is straight up Chinese and it shows with their numerous accounts of failed stitching. Seems like a flawed system to me. This is as somebody who regularly recommends other options especially as entry level carriers.
yea I wouldn't put a lot of stock in the rankings and would moreso do exactly what you did and break down each bit as related to what is important to you. The list is more arbitrary to what a new consumer would want and includes all the factors and even some others such as company interaction, and business strategy. Like you did, don't rely on the list, rely on your own mind but use some of my thoughts to help add data points to your decision excellent write up btw! -Walsh
I think I like it. It's a bit bulky but it works well. Basically if you're going to be a grunt and not care about anything minimalistic, it's wonderful. Otherwise, it's a bit large. -Walsh
You should really do a review of reddits favorite carrier the JPC 2.0 more as an informative piece for new people since it's the main carrier people get recommended
@@ThinLineDefenseCo exactly, I bought one off of recommendation awhile ago, and I didn't realize how underwhelming it really was, but no one talks about it
@@ThinLineDefenseCo interesting that they told you to get a L/XL too. I ran into the same issue with wanting to use the carrier for 10x12 plates and they told me L/XL based on my body dimensions and not the plate size. Did you find that you had a lot of material bunching up along the top, back, and sides of the bag? Wondering if getting thick medium SAPI cut plates would help fill some of the dead space
@@princetonazpyeah you should have purchased a S/M carrier and the L/XL cummerbund most likely. If you emailed CS and they told you that I get it but plate bags should always be sized to the plate and the Cummerbund sized to the body. Just a thought, a company whose target is the military whose folks issued plates based on their body size aren’t going to run into this problem. But in the civilian side where 10x12s are super common and people who’d normally be issued Large SAPIs are buying 10x12s make for a tough call by customer service folks.
Isnt SC a small team operation? I can see how theyre priced if thats the case. If they had a huge manufacturing facility with a large team, i could see their prices come down. Im pretty sure he started this off just by himself. Man's gotta eat
Well it's why we test this, we've only seen the issue on a few other carriers. Remember, the plate bag is sized to your plates. Now you should also size the plates to your chest but being wide doesn't always mean you'll be round....well you shouldn't be anyway. So I get your point but that would mean if you're any smaller than me....10x12s size plates are too big. But they're almost too small for me? There is just something screwy going on. -Walsh
@@ThinLineDefenseCo I hear you but 10x12s are much closer to medium than large sapi plates. So wouldn’t sizing a carrier to your plate give you a S/M - possibly a L/XL cummerbund paired with it if your wide and or round. Still probably wouldn’t fit your wife with a L/XL cummerbund at that point. I think the ultimate issue is 10x12 is considered a “large” in shooters cut by most plate manufactures and it causes confusion since nylon manufactures often times use sapi for their design sizing. RMA is the odd ball because they make a 10x12 in a “SAPI” style cut. But it should still go in a medium carrier due to the actual plate size being very close to a medium SAPI and quite a bit smaller than a Large SAPI. Bottom line, the manufactures probably should be better at talking about this. 🤷🏻♂️
This with the Agilite cummerbund is the way to go - avoid that bungie monstrosity Also, minor nitpick - but like, whats with their zipper pulls? super high end product with high end pricing and they have like, twine, for the zipper pulls. Just weird
Oh yea, this with a warfighter cummberbund would be epic! Yea I've been seeing that a lot too. Some weird corners cut where you'd think the price could support some top end bits. It's likely to keep from failing though.
@@ThinLineDefenseCo I got the new Shaw placard on a Ferro FCPC with the Agilite Warfighter cummerbund and the Midwest Armor GP-Mag pouches - it's a great low profile fully built out combat set up
Honestly, Walsh, this seems a lot like the Husar Noble 4.0 with a bit more features. I think you might like checking it out. I own one and it's really good, especially for the price
The price is bonkers and they do some pretty weird "reviews" that include tests where their carrier is always first. It always just leaves me smacking my lips like "uhh....kinda interesting guys." It would just be silly to recommend that tier when you could get a Shaw or a Crye. They priced themselves to the moon while being earth level design and implementation with that 1992 cummerbund system and so-so placard. I mean hell, S&S precision is cheaper. And that's something insane people say. -Walsh
The arc v2 is a real carrier. Qore is marketing nonsense along with the ac1. Get an MEPC if you want a starter. You'd get a far better product and less Instagram lol -Walsh
That rear adjustment reminded me of the way the 5.11 carrier adjusts; no thank you. The rest of the carrier is well thought out and the cable routing is definitely a positive.
ohhhhh that makes sense. I was always curious who puts that together. Kinda yuck with all the first spear business practices and how it all came to be.
@@ThinLineDefenseCo Mind you this is just something i heard secondhand, I haven't confirmed it fully just yet. its plausible in the end though. I got a buddy who's bought up a lot of their products after talking to the guys at Shaw personally.
That’s not true anymore. The last product Shaw had OEM’d by FS was the raid v2. Which is no longer in production as of this comment and the v3 being released.
I’m sorry Walsh but you’re rankings make no sense. Ranking the K19, which has maybe a tenth of the functionality of the ARC V2, higher is borderline ridiculous. The K19 is fine for a concerned citizen who isn’t going to be running in an organized unit with others sure, but the ARC v2 was never designed for that. Just like how the K19 has no real way to attach comms or cable management. Honestly the way you do your ratings makes it seem like the only thing you care about is price. And tbh, I wouldn’t even consider the ARC a “slimline” carrier. Especially when you take into account the design philosophy. The guys at Shaw made the ARC for infantry operations, not go-fast-direct-action-secret-squirrel ops. I respect you but can not agree with your ranking system (whatever it may be) when you’re placing carriers like the K-Zero and MEPC higher than carriers actively used by military ranging from infantry to tier 1.
@@ThinLineDefenseCo doubt it would change anything, I’ve worn both and they don’t even come close. There’s a reason the battle proven stuff is still in use, because it works the best for its purpose
I don’t give a damn how good it is, it’s overpriced….did y’all check out that mean mug’n during the cheek weld test, damn walsh made jump back and think, don’t piss him off today, LMAO!! That a new blade I spy!!
💥📈 💰💰💰💰💰💰💰 Don't get me wrong, they build some new design with great quality gear , but they EXPAND the PRICE . We just get wut ever we need for work, there's more options out there with better customizing and versatility and better price , but it all depends in your unit and your needs for work . Still for Price 💰💰💰🪖⛑❌ for regular joe.‼💲💲💲💲 even for us in some items ( gear ) .🔱 Shaw still needs to adjust his competitive prices and designs, honestly. Thanks for your Fun and Honest review. Slow n Smooth Smooth is Fast cheers
Shaw Concepts has far exceeded my expectations. It’s well worth every dollar spent.
It is a GREAT carrier. It's just not a starter carrier. But those folks looking to upgrade into the top tier, this is one of em.
-Walsh
For anyone looking I think EODfish does a lot better plate carrier reviews. There are a lot of fair criticisms here but I also don’t think a lot of them make sense. There’s simultaneous praise and criticism of the modularity and some of the main cons are that it’s a paid to change the carrier to fit other people. The cost is definitely prohibitive for some and while they do restocks pretty regularly, it can be hard to just order one. While I may personally think the ARC should be ranked a lot higher, the real crime is seeing Agilite carriers ranked #1.
Edit: I also find it kind of strange that it’s a load bearing carrier, and marketed as one, but yet ranked in the slimline carrier category.
Had several different plate carriers issued through the military, and I’ve messed around with high end stuff like JPC’s, and still own an HRT Tactical RAC carrier. Shaw’s ARC v2 is the best carrier I’ve ever had. Cannot say enough good things about the thought and designs around this carrier. Running the placard, the admin pouch, and the Raid pouch as a dangler give you enough space to carry everything you’ll ever need and still keeps the carrier slim up front. Shaw Concepts to the fuckin moon baby!
Digging on the lash style cummerbunds was a weird criticism. Yeah they suck to set up but when they are it’s superior to even the cummerbunds with built on stretch because you can just replace the shock cord when it gets worn out instead of buying a whole new cummerbund when it gets worn out
Ok I'll give you that. But if you have the bank for this carrier, you can replace a cummerbund. The bungee lashing just makes it seem lazy compared to the rest of it.
It's also weird to say you can save money with this.....I'd much rather pay extra at this point, not save a few bucks later.
Shock cord is the industry standard because:
- Shock cord wont fail if it gets wet.
- Shock cord is easily replaceable.
- Shock cord is not that hard to set up, if your IQ is within one standard deviation.
So I do not see anything wrong about it.
Great review. Pretty much agree with everything. I have this plate carrier and could not be more pleased. It is by far the most comfortable and configurable carrier I have ever worn. Also, Shaw Concepts is a great company to do business with.
I got the placard with the new quad insert and have it with the Arc chest rig harness. Pretty sweet set up so far and is nice to throw on over my Defense Mechanisms carrier
Plus I like supporting fellow Alabamians haha
yea that quad....I need to get that one!
@@ThinLineDefenseCo it’s pretty solid man! The tegris support it has is great
Arc v2 assembly is the reason i havent done any gear assembly for a year. And the cbund attachment is the same as crye jpc with the option to use diff attachment methods offered by other companies which is awesome. Try finding that from lbt who still sell there out dated 6094 and refuse to update the actual vest and still charge premium price for it. Arc v2 is worth the cost and is more comparible to a midernized lbt 6094 in its complete form and is in the same price range but i dont have to spend 1k to modernize it
oh my word I'm with you, that 6094 is crazy priced and a bulky bit of trash. I had one and sold it. It was just a dated design.
And I hear you on the cummberbund setup. I would run that ARC v2 with the Agilite warfighter cummberbund for a totally bonkers setup. Defense Mechanisms is doing a structural elastic 'bund soon too though. I do love that Shaw allowed for the hook and loop systems though. I probably should have given them more credit for that.
The 6094 is a great comparison that I never considered, I have two ARC V2's (as well as a T3 Trident Gear Tomahawk, Shellback Tactical Banshee Elite 2.0, Agilite K19, and Firstspear AAC V2) and the closest comparison I can legitimately make is the similarities between my SC ARC V2's and my FS AAC V2 (similar price, size, weight, load capacity and both utilize FS tubes.) There are subtle distinguishing factors, although for the price paid between the two options, you get more of your money's worth with the SC ARC V2 (hence why I picked up two of them)
I remember seeing you talk about this on Reddit with someone because they were freaking out about how good it is.
Still went with the SPC because of your prior videos. Informative as always!
SPC at this tier would still be the better buy. It's just hard to justify the cost. It's nice...super nice. Just wildly expensive.
@@ThinLineDefenseCo I agree. I looked at the Shaw Concepts and my wallet screamed in fear from across the room.
The SPC setup utilizes the AXL cummerbund and it’s been super comfy. I’m considering the AXL shoulder pads as well but the SPC shoulder pads aren’t too bad right now.
I'm curious how the usurper belt system works for you guys since you finally got a hold of the PC.
The ARC system does look interesting though
Yea I need to try it. The leg strap they did doesn't articulate so I'm not super excited about the whole setup. But I'll need to grab one!
I love it, and especially love it now that there's a sidekick V2 for it that allows more options besides Safariland pattern retention bolts. I now have the Usurper with both a Sidekick V1 for use with my Safariland holster when I'm using my Surefire X300U, and my G-Code holster on a Sidekick V2 for when I'm using my DBAL-PL on my 92X RDO for use with NODs. There seriously isn't a better battle belt on the market, I switched from my Ferro Bison belt to it and have never looked back.
Came across this review in my quest to find a plate carrier to more or less side-grade to from my Crye AVS. Which as fantastic as it is, I want something a bit more low profile, that splits the difference between the JPC and AVS.
I had been looking at the First Spear Strandhogg, and even picked up a cheap salty V1 to try out while looking for either a new V2/V3 Strandy, or something similar. I've been running the Shaw pads for a while now, and I remembered they had the ARC V2.
It seems like the ARC V2 is trying to improve on things that First Spear is doing, for a slightly better price. Though the cummerbund being bungie corded does leave something to be desired, but at least they give you the option for a velcro attachment system if so desired.
Just by reading the comments, and even taking the review as "This is great if you aren't buying your first carrier" type of deal, it seems like a solid option.
Dig into the DPC also. I think it's what you're looking for if you want something lower profile.
Alright that's it, we need a AVS review from you now. Im SUPPER interested in hearing what you think of the AVS's loadbearing ability as someone whose had experience with other inexpensive, newer carriers like the LBAC and K19.
I'm with you! I was actually looking into one.
@@ThinLineDefenseCo That's exciting to hear! I'll be patiently waiting for the time to come
Was the red T-shirt selected on purpose or by accident? The color contrast with the Multi-cool camo was actually nice. Helped see the size of the carrier.
Edit: This video showed in my feed just 18 hours after being posted. That’s better than the month to six weeks YT normally hides your videos.
haha I think I just grabbed a shirt at the time but I noticed the contrast was nice also
glad to hear it actually notified you!
I didn't think i would find anything that i liked more than my Firstspear AAC V2 (especially considering it being even more expensive than the ARC V2), however i ended up picking up an ARC V2 in black for work (uniform dictates a black pc), i enjoyed it so much, i picked up another ARC V2 in my typical go to wolf grey. The fact that Shaw utilizes Firstspear tubes is the icing on the cake.
Glad you like it and yea those first spear tubes are making their way to most carriers now.
That user name though haha Goodness!
-Walsh
@ThinLineDefenseCo I can fly, im pilot...
@ThinLineDefenseCo I did pick up a K19 a few years back due to your positive review of it, and I agree that it is an incredibly comfortable load bearing pc with a full kit in tow, the biggest downfall that I attribute to the K19 is the utter lack of integrated comms routing, which would often result in my clipping my PTT onto whatever shirt I was wearing underneath the carrier, which was simply unacceptable being that I was using it in a workplace capacity. After my K19 I picked up my FS AAC V2 in a mixture of "Manatee Gray" and "Adaptive Green" due to a lack of matching pattern options when accessorizing (wanna talk about pricey!), which I thoroughly enjoy, however with a career transition, found myself in need of a new carrier in black (enter the ARC V2), and for a little less than what my FS AAC V2 cost me, I found what I consider to be the pinnacle of plate carrier design and functionality that perfectly justifies the cost, especially considering the fact that it was cheaper than my beloved FS AAC V2. There is one thing that I do love about my FS AAC that is distinguishable from the ARC V2 and any other PC on the market, and that is the ingenuity in the design of the FS VEP backpack (do yourself a favor and look into it if you haven't already @ThinLineDefenseCo )
Since you made one about this now I have to ask about ferro concepts V5. Can we get a review on this one wizard?
I suppose I need to one day lol
The arc v2 is great… but the Ferro concepts fcpc v5 is the best one I’ve worn. Plus the side armor on it is incredibly comfortable and realistic. About the same price as Shaw but with side armor
Seems like your favorite carriers are still the SPC and MEPC. Is there one that you preferred hauling on your runs? Seems like the SPC with added accessories distributes weight better but is very expensive and a bit difficult to setup. Whereas the MEPC is good enough, more budget friendly and a bit easier to customize. Is that accurate? Anything else you would add?
Current trying to decide between these two. Thanks!
No one ever mentions Tyr Tactical. High-end kit you should consider. They recently won a few federal LE contracts. Cool video, and thanks for making it.
Walsh actually has some of their mag pouches and really likes them. I'm sure a review will happen eventually
- Jason
Which knife are you using in the thumbnail pic for this vid?
Have you ever considered getting the dfndr qrc2.0 carrier and doing a review there’s not very many reviews on TH-cam so it could be a good review I think it’s a good price and it comes with everything so you don’t have to piece it together
Agreed but at that price point you're close to high tier so you may as well get a Shaw or Javlin at that point. For 350, that's a hard pill to swallow. Particularly with a non-rigid cummerbund and not even first spear tubes connections. I don't even understand where the cost is coming from. For 150 I'd say it's great, 250 maybe but there are a lot heavy hitters at that price. 350.....bro
-Walsh
edit: wait...a full molle front panel? is that removable? It better be removable.
@@ThinLineDefenseCo yea the front Molle is removable for other placards and idk from what I’ve seen it’s up there in lightest carrier and I’m assuming it’s meant to be ran in a slick configuration
Is this actually a Large/XL plate carrier? It looks like everyone is wearing smalls or mediums. How tall are you?
yea 10x12 plates. I just got them shoulders for days lol
Lolz I was thinking the same. I'm 6'0 and just placed an order on a S/M after a lot of research and saw the perfect L/XL fit on Walsh and thought, 'Ruh-roh...'
I ain't got dem boulder shoulders, doe.
Did not realize Baer solutions has a gun belt…..have you seen it or plan on doing a review on it? I know there is so many belts out now but I was just curious.
Thanks
could be interesting! I've been wanting to see their TAD ranger LT jacket they ripped off too!
Next one should be warrior assault systems. There is like 3 different really nice ones.
How do you like it with the add on soft armor package that connects to the velcro inside. Looking at this for a "heavy" active shooter setup when i take off my outer carrier. Or a call in setup.
I LOVE that setup. I actually pulled the plates and have it setup that way now. I'll do a video on it but it would be a perfect car or truck setup because it's not very heavy or anything
-Walsh
@@ThinLineDefenseCo Awesome. I'd greatly appreciate a video. Keep up the great videos. I come here first for gear reviews.
Is the ARC longer overall than the K-Zero? I’d assume it would be a tad taller if it can take XL plates. I have a longer torso and while I like the K-Zero am considering changing to something a hair bigger.
Would you be able to give us a review on the soft armor addition?
Yea I have it and that's actually how I keep it configured. Lots of the schedule for videos so it may be a while but know it is really good
-Walsh
@@ThinLineDefenseCoyeah I'd like to know if the armor up system interferes with the side bucket armor system
I am really looking forward to investing in this plate carrier. Expensive, yes.
likely worth it? Will let you know. Great review and cons certainly noted!
Oh .. it is FANTASTIC. Just takes a bit to get an is pricey. If you're good with that, you're gonna love it!
@@ThinLineDefenseCo Stock is definitely an issue, "product drops" are an absolute pain in the ass (not a fan, and no pre-orders for Law-Enforcement). I went with a Templar's Gear Cataphract (with Level-IIIA soft-armor and plates) with Shaw Concepts placard complete (in the interim). Looks like I'll get a Multi-Cam and Ranger Green ARC V2 through the course of next year (waiting and being patient is going to be a test in and of itself).
I would be interested in your opinion of th Crye AVS. Will that ever get a review?
Honestly... probably not. It's like 1200 dollars assembled and that's stupid.
If it's being issued, enjoy it. For half that cost you can get a Shaw. For 1/4 you can get a HRT LBAC.
The crye avs doesn't make sense unless someone else is paying the bill.
-Walsh
@@ThinLineDefenseCo not necessarily. I have seen fairly complete ones used in great condition go for less than what the ARC costs new. For that price it seems to bring very unique capabilities to the table.
But I understand, I wouldn't be able to justify buying it brand new either.
Our angle is also more the starter or everyday man's perspective. It would be really hard to recommend and even if we did review it, it would be near the bottom of the list purely based on cost as a new consumer wouldn't even consider that.
But one day it would be fun to review some of these other carriers....maybe even wreck em lol
@@ThinLineDefenseCo I had the impression that you review high end mil spec equipment as well from your Ops-Core AMP and High Cut helmet reviews.
That's a really good idea! I would love to see that.
@@oliverpasztor788 I think that a fair point, especially because the avs is the gold standard wich a other load bearing carriers should be compared to. But I think they would have to reevaluate their ranking on the k19, if they ever used one.
I also think that cost shouldn't play that big of a role, because quality kit will last you a long time. I am still using my JPC 1.0, so it cost me like 20€ per year...
This is some top notch manufacturing right here; I have Haley Strategic's D3CR X chest rig, which is $200, & I love it , however I specifically didn't want a "plate carrier" for armor, so it's really just for carrying tools & eight magazines.
That makes sense, a chest rig would be the best option. But I'm curious, with 8 mags wouldn't you want some level of protection?
Seems like a lot of rounds for hunting hogs....
@@ThinLineDefenseCo I prefer soft armor, 3A. So I'd just throw that 10x12 on underneath. The chest rig carries 4 AR-style mags, & 4-glock style mags.
that makes sense!
Complaints about price, valid
Complaints about availability, valid
Complaints about shoulder strap adjustment, wild. The shoulder straps are sized accordingly with the plate bags. If you want narrower the S/M would accommodate but typically shoulder straps are never adjusted after being properly set even with layer changes
Complaints about cummerbund adjustment, Wild. You chose to go with a fixed cummerbund setup the standard practice is to set and forget rear bag cummerbund placement and if layering is expected then adjust off of the velcro under the placard. This is so layers can be added and removed very quickly. Double velcro secured cummerbunds are great for certain applications but for example the one you showed off would be non field serviceable whereas the arc cummerbunds just require a piece of cordage.
This is your video, you knew you’d get hate, but it seems absolutely insane to rank how you did without a massive bolded asterisk which is you’re not evaluating purely on carrier performance but also on affordability and availability. Not that you don’t make that well known but the screenshot of “these are my top carriers” agilite isn’t even berry complaint except for government required contracts. Hrt is straight up Chinese and it shows with their numerous accounts of failed stitching. Seems like a flawed system to me. This is as somebody who regularly recommends other options especially as entry level carriers.
yea I wouldn't put a lot of stock in the rankings and would moreso do exactly what you did and break down each bit as related to what is important to you.
The list is more arbitrary to what a new consumer would want and includes all the factors and even some others such as company interaction, and business strategy.
Like you did, don't rely on the list, rely on your own mind but use some of my thoughts to help add data points to your decision
excellent write up btw!
-Walsh
What do you think about the admin pouch?
I think I like it. It's a bit bulky but it works well. Basically if you're going to be a grunt and not care about anything minimalistic, it's wonderful. Otherwise, it's a bit large.
-Walsh
Sammich time!
You should really do a review of reddits favorite carrier the JPC 2.0
more as an informative piece for new people since it's the main carrier people get recommended
I did the SPC which is really kinda the....next JPC 2.0. I like that carrier a lot but it does require some adaption into placards and such
@@ThinLineDefenseCo exactly, I bought one off of recommendation awhile ago, and I didn't realize how underwhelming it really was, but no one talks about it
What’s that’s adapter on 10:17 anyone ?
What size plates do you have in there? Medium SAPI?
I just did civilian 10x12s. Trying not to show SAPI size as those are mostly issued....and you can get your carrier issued at that point lol
@@ThinLineDefenseCo interesting that they told you to get a L/XL too. I ran into the same issue with wanting to use the carrier for 10x12 plates and they told me L/XL based on my body dimensions and not the plate size. Did you find that you had a lot of material bunching up along the top, back, and sides of the bag? Wondering if getting thick medium SAPI cut plates would help fill some of the dead space
@@princetonazpyeah you should have purchased a S/M carrier and the L/XL cummerbund most likely. If you emailed CS and they told you that I get it but plate bags should always be sized to the plate and the Cummerbund sized to the body. Just a thought, a company whose target is the military whose folks issued plates based on their body size aren’t going to run into this problem. But in the civilian side where 10x12s are super common and people who’d normally be issued Large SAPIs are buying 10x12s make for a tough call by customer service folks.
Isnt SC a small team operation? I can see how theyre priced if thats the case. If they had a huge manufacturing facility with a large team, i could see their prices come down. Im pretty sure he started this off just by himself. Man's gotta eat
Don't quote me but I think their stuff is manufactured by first spear. Again, that may be wrong.
-Walsh
Noticed you had the L/XL sizing. I would imagine resizing a L/XL to a wife would be impossible for any manufacturer.
Well it's why we test this, we've only seen the issue on a few other carriers. Remember, the plate bag is sized to your plates. Now you should also size the plates to your chest but being wide doesn't always mean you'll be round....well you shouldn't be anyway.
So I get your point but that would mean if you're any smaller than me....10x12s size plates are too big. But they're almost too small for me? There is just something screwy going on.
-Walsh
@@ThinLineDefenseCo I hear you but 10x12s are much closer to medium than large sapi plates. So wouldn’t sizing a carrier to your plate give you a S/M - possibly a L/XL cummerbund paired with it if your wide and or round. Still probably wouldn’t fit your wife with a L/XL cummerbund at that point. I think the ultimate issue is 10x12 is considered a “large” in shooters cut by most plate manufactures and it causes confusion since nylon manufactures often times use sapi for their design sizing. RMA is the odd ball because they make a 10x12 in a “SAPI” style cut. But it should still go in a medium carrier due to the actual plate size being very close to a medium SAPI and quite a bit smaller than a Large SAPI.
Bottom line, the manufactures probably should be better at talking about this. 🤷🏻♂️
Yea... I asked what size to get and they told me the one I had. *shrug* you're absolutely 100% correct
it should be very clear
This with the Agilite cummerbund is the way to go - avoid that bungie monstrosity
Also, minor nitpick - but like, whats with their zipper pulls? super high end product with high end pricing and they have like, twine, for the zipper pulls. Just weird
Oh yea, this with a warfighter cummberbund would be epic! Yea I've been seeing that a lot too. Some weird corners cut where you'd think the price could support some top end bits. It's likely to keep from failing though.
@@ThinLineDefenseCo I got the new Shaw placard on a Ferro FCPC with the Agilite Warfighter cummerbund and the Midwest Armor GP-Mag pouches - it's a great low profile fully built out combat set up
Anyone know which quasem buckles are used here?
Honestly, Walsh, this seems a lot like the Husar Noble 4.0 with a bit more features. I think you might like checking it out. I own one and it's really good, especially for the price
Why dont you like the qore performance plate carrier?
The price is bonkers and they do some pretty weird "reviews" that include tests where their carrier is always first. It always just leaves me smacking my lips like "uhh....kinda interesting guys." It would just be silly to recommend that tier when you could get a Shaw or a Crye. They priced themselves to the moon while being earth level design and implementation with that 1992 cummerbund system and so-so placard.
I mean hell, S&S precision is cheaper. And that's something insane people say.
-Walsh
@@ThinLineDefenseCo thanks for the feedback I'm caught between the qore performance and the arc V2 and possibly the ac1 as a starter
The arc v2 is a real carrier. Qore is marketing nonsense along with the ac1. Get an MEPC if you want a starter. You'd get a far better product and less Instagram lol
-Walsh
@@ThinLineDefenseCo think I'll go with the arc V2
That rear adjustment reminded me of the way the 5.11 carrier adjusts; no thank you. The rest of the carrier is well thought out and the cable routing is definitely a positive.
Does anyone’s make a 6 mag placard??
Tracer Tactical does along with Beez combat systems. The mag pouch just wraps all the way around the front, I got a few of em.
@@ThinLineDefenseCo your the man thanks!
I know Haley strategics makes one that you can basically fit 6 mags it’s 11.5 inches wide would that work with the mepc?
The bungee system in the back takes less than 5 minutes. I'm kinda surprised you struggled with it so much.
Shaw’s stuff is usually OEM’d by first spear, so that may be why it takes a bit to restock
ohhhhh that makes sense. I was always curious who puts that together. Kinda yuck with all the first spear business practices and how it all came to be.
@@ThinLineDefenseCo Mind you this is just something i heard secondhand, I haven't confirmed it fully just yet. its plausible in the end though.
I got a buddy who's bought up a lot of their products after talking to the guys at Shaw personally.
That’s not true anymore. The last product Shaw had OEM’d by FS was the raid v2. Which is no longer in production as of this comment and the v3 being released.
I’m sorry Walsh but you’re rankings make no sense. Ranking the K19, which has maybe a tenth of the functionality of the ARC V2, higher is borderline ridiculous. The K19 is fine for a concerned citizen who isn’t going to be running in an organized unit with others sure, but the ARC v2 was never designed for that. Just like how the K19 has no real way to attach comms or cable management. Honestly the way you do your ratings makes it seem like the only thing you care about is price. And tbh, I wouldn’t even consider the ARC a “slimline” carrier. Especially when you take into account the design philosophy. The guys at Shaw made the ARC for infantry operations, not go-fast-direct-action-secret-squirrel ops. I respect you but can not agree with your ranking system (whatever it may be) when you’re placing carriers like the K-Zero and MEPC higher than carriers actively used by military ranging from infantry to tier 1.
no. one wants a five year old lv119 lol
@@ThinLineDefenseCo I’ve got more guys and gals in my squadron running LV119s, JPCs, and SPCs than K19s, K-Zeros, or HRTs so 🤨
imagine if they actually knew about A-jacs and DPCs though
@@ThinLineDefenseCo doubt it would change anything, I’ve worn both and they don’t even come close. There’s a reason the battle proven stuff is still in use, because it works the best for its purpose
Looks like my FCPC V5
besides the spider system the FCPC doesn't have...along with removing the horrible shoulder strap of the FCPC...yes!
Yooo, TBOC WTF!
ROTC?
@@ThinLineDefenseCo BTCC
AFFSA? Diamonds baby
You’ll have to pray my Avs from my cold dead hands I’m not waiting for months for a plate carrier
AVS is a good one. The HRT LBAC is almost identical for 1/3 the cost too. It's amazing
I don’t give a damn how good it is, it’s overpriced….did y’all check out that mean mug’n during the cheek weld test, damn walsh made jump back and think, don’t piss him off today, LMAO!! That a new blade I spy!!
hahah "make a serious face and you can get a sandwich"
😉
A lot going on there. DM all the way
Seems overly complicated. Kiss- keep it stupid simple
I’ll stick to agilite
Price alone...no thanks
💥📈 💰💰💰💰💰💰💰 Don't get me wrong, they build some new design with great quality gear , but they EXPAND the PRICE .
We just get wut ever we need for work, there's more options out there with better customizing and versatility and better price , but it all depends in your unit and your needs for work .
Still for Price 💰💰💰🪖⛑❌ for regular joe.‼💲💲💲💲 even for us in some items ( gear ) .🔱
Shaw still needs to adjust his competitive prices and designs, honestly.
Thanks for your Fun and Honest review.
Slow n Smooth Smooth is Fast
cheers
I like your reviews. Very helpful🫱🏻🫲🏽