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 what matters when choosing the right variant.

How to use a chest rig correctly – what should be considered?

Fitting a new rig can be a bit complicated for beginners at first; 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 pockets and compartments on the harness can be easily reached and opened with one hand. Especially for military use, it is essential to be able to access all items carried on the body directly and without complications. When filling the individual pouches, care should be taken to ensure an even load on the body and a sensible distribution of weight. 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 items. Not every manoeuvre or leisure activity in the semi-professional sector requires you to plan for the same amount of accessories, and the size of the chest rig should reflect this. The number and position of attachment loops and rings also depend on this and should always guarantee a secure fit under any load.

If your body measurements are not standard, you should check in advance whether the straps can be adjusted to your individual needs. The chest rig was originally developed as a practical carrying system for the military and is therefore often available in camouflage colours. In addition, there are versions for private use that serve as a helpful accessory for leisure trips, scout camps or similar activities.
Anyone looking to buy a carrying system for private use will often be well served by a slightly smaller chest rig in favour of a lower purchase price.
These often use thinner materials and therefore also have a lighter overall weight.

Individually configurable

Chest rigs with MOLLE system offer a wide range of attachment options thanks to the standardized loops, which can even extend across 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 equipment and items 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.

No, as long as there are no excessively loud ambient noises drowning out the conversation. In a quieter environment, you can communicate without any problems by speaking up a little.

Chest rig or would a tactical vest be better?

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

The tactical vest

The tactical vest offers a wide range of small and large pockets, so there is a suitable compartment 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 across the entire body, as they also have pockets on the back. This does, however, result in a minor drawback of the system: you can no longer use backpacks.

The chest rig

The rig is the modern solution for carrying gear. It consists of a sturdy carrying system. Attached to the shoulder straps is a panel on which numerous large and small pouches can be mounted. This way, every item finds its place. In contrast to 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.

Questions: Baseball caps

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 wearing comfort and a good fit.

What is the best way to clean the systems?

A mild detergent (sensitive) is best, together with a soft brush (under no circumstances 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.