Chest rigs

The chest rig, used militarily as a chest or equipment harness, offers space for countless accessories during maneuvers and other activities. At ASMC we show you what matters when choosing the right variant.

Using a chest rig correctly – what should you pay attention to?

Fitting a new rig can be a bit complicated at first, especially for beginners; basically, however, the system of straps and belts is put on like a classic top. Since the chest rig is usually worn under jackets and possibly other clothing, you should check that the chest rig sits securely and comfortably before putting on the outer layers. After fastening the carrying system, you should check whether all the pouches and compartments on the belt can be easily reached and opened with one hand.

Especially for military use, it is essential to have direct and uncomplicated access to all items carried on the body. When filling the individual pouches, care should be taken to distribute the load evenly over the body and to arrange the weight sensibly. Even if the individual items sit close to the body, an asymmetrical distribution will quickly become noticeable – all the more so the longer you are on the move with all your gear.

Choosing the right models for your own activities

When buying the best rig, a crucial question is how much space is needed for tools, magazines, provisions or other utensils. You don’t need to plan for the same amount of accessories for every maneuver and every activity in your free time or in the semi‑professional sector, and the size of the chest rig should reflect this. The number and position of the attachment loops and rings also depend on this and should always guarantee a secure fit under any load.

If your body measurements do not conform to the norm, you should check in advance whether the straps can be adjusted to your individual needs. The chest rig originated as a practical carrying system for the military and is therefore often available in camouflage colors. In addition, there are also versions for private use that serve as a helpful accessory for leisure tours, scout trips or similar activities.
If you want to purchase a carrying system for private use, you can usually get by with slightly smaller chest rigs in favor of a lower purchase price.
These often also have a lower weight thanks to thinner materials.

Individually configurable

Chest rigs with MOLLE system offer a wide range of attachment options thanks to the standardized loops, which can even extend over the entire area of the shoulder pads. This leaves it up to you how many storage options you want to attach to the carrying system. MOLLE here stands for Modular Lightweight Load‑carrying Equipment –

Expert tip: A MOLLE chest rig is

Literally – for carrying. It was developed as a military system for attaching and carrying gear and equipment and is characterized by a standardized attachment base made of textile fabric (carrier straps) that are sewn to the rig with multiple rows of stitching.

Questions: Chest rigs

Chest rig or better a tactical vest?

Chest rig, such as the popular MK II, or a tactical vest – that is the question here. Soldiers, hunters and airsoft players in particular should take a close look at both concepts. In everyday operations you have to carry a fair amount of gear. Not everything can be stowed in a backpack; some items need to be within easy reach, e.g. flashlight, knife, safety glasses, etc. To be able to carry your full loadout, there are two options: the chest rig and the tactical vest. Which one you choose, as so often, depends on the area of deployment and your personal preferences.

The tactical vest

The tactical vest offers a variety of small and large pockets: there is a suitable pocket for every piece of equipment. The pockets are arranged so that everything can be reached comfortably. Tactical vests have the advantage of distributing the weight evenly over the whole body, as they also have pockets on the back. This also leads to the system’s small disadvantage: backpacks can no longer be used.

The chest rig

The rig is the modern solution for carrying gear. It consists of a sturdy harness system. Attached to the shoulder straps is a panel on which numerous large and small pouches can be mounted, so every item finds its place. Unlike a vest, there are no pouches on the back. The major advantage of a chest rig is that it allows you to wear backpacks without restriction.

Are there special versions for women?

Chest rigs, e.g. from TacGear, are unisex carrying systems that are available in various sizes. It is advisable for women (who are generally more petite than men) to choose smaller sizes in order to ensure optimal comfort and a good fit.

What is the best way to clean the systems?

The best option is a mild detergent (sensitive) with a soft brush (never use wire brushes) and clear water. Caution: The items must not be put in the washing machine or dryer, as the material could warp due to the high temperatures. Do not dry them in the sun or over an open fire, but let them dry slowly at room temperature.