Chest rigs. Not plate carriers. Obviously the first question is, what are you using it for? The other is, is it modular enough for to be used/changed for other missions.
So if your intent is “generic” which honestly should be about 90% of folks, then having a modular set up is ideal. Much like PCs this is based on a shingle and with most brands is universal. Top three placards that can be modified as chest rigs are these guys
https://spiritussystems.com
https://ferroconcepts.com
Most are interchangeable and can be uses with each others stuff. If not Axl normally has a mod for it https://axladvanced.com/
Good example of a basic rig is this. Spiritus micro fight, admin pouch, and a ferro chesty adapter for my ATAK phone. All it needs is shoulder straps and im good to go. Nice thing about this, is all i have to do it drop it on a PC or an expander like the thing 1 or 2.
Speaking of which here’s another thing example. This is my “gun run” rig. Microfight, admin pouch, on a thing 2 platform with pouches on the side for NODS etc….it’s basically the same as the first but plopped on an additional platform.
The point behind comparing the two is to show how you can pick and choose your setup with a minimal amount of work and parts. I have different ones because im a perfectionist, but honestly you can set things up with just a handful of kit.
Example i can take that minimalist rig, remove the ATAK chesty and drop it on a thing 1 and make it a “hunting platform” change the mag inserts out for 7.62 and im holding my Glasses and nav equipment in the pouches.
Another nice thing guys make is “pouches” obviously Molle pouches have always been a thing. But spiritus and microbat systems make inserts for them now that allow you to carry and protect NODS. This is one example.
Finally the minimal of minimalist. The bank robber. This is a good range rig and a “holy shit rig” its basically nothing but mags and TQs. But if you want something light and easy its a perfect option
I didnt really go into WHATs in my pockets. And that varies as much as my kit. Really i always have some multitool, oil and batteries in a baggie or in a single pocket, to save room and time.
On some pouches you may see green beads as well. They glow so at night so i know “green beaded pocket it nods” or “blue beaded pocket is demo” If i can find red, it would be perfect for med. Like anything they have a place though.
To close, if you’re just starting, the best place to start is probably with a spiritus mirco fight. From there you can move towards building a more wholistic chest rig. Which can also be easily transposed over a plate carrier with minimal difficulty.
Up Next…Plate Carriers