TACTICAL VEST SIZING

Thousands of men and women across the nation don a bulletproof tactical vest, gun, and badge to either protect our country or a small piece of it. Outer vests are becoming more prevalent, and not just because they look badass. They reduce the stress a heavy gun belt puts on your back. By moving the critical weapons and accessories to the outer vest, they are easier to reach when needed. If you’re new to tactical vests and how to set them up, you’re in the right place.

TACTICAL VEST SIZING

The tactical vest fit and size is probably the most important part of setting up your vest. If your vest doesn’t fit right, it won’t be comfortable, and it could decrease its effectiveness. The rigging may sag or be too tight. Getting measured by a professional who has experience in fitting tactical vests is critical. Most vests come with plate carriers, so there’s no need to worry about choosing the wrong one unless you’re buying a vest for personal reasons versus professional.

Have someone else measure you if you’re doing it on your own. You should still get help from the store you plan on buying your vest from, though. They should be able to help you choose the right vest for your needs.

Tactical vests are adjustable, so you can adjust yours for comfort and maximum protection. Once you tailor it to fit you, it’s set, and all you need to do is throw it on and secure it with the Velcro or whatever closure it has.

If you’re wearing a vest for work, and your department issues you an outer carrier, it usually comes with a traditional vest carrier as well. Having both carrier systems allows you to switch your plates back and forth between both systems, depending on the uniform you’re wearing.

One of the best things about an outer carrier is you can adjust it throughout your shift. You can also take it off occasionally if it’s extremely hot outside. Of course, you need to be careful when and where you take off your vest.

CONSIDER WHAT YOU’LL BE CARRYING WHEN YOU ATTACH THINGS TO YOUR TACTICAL VEST

The first thing to remember is the plate carrier doesn’t just hold the load carriage; it also includes the armor system. The armor plays a key role in how the vest fits, as it keeps the vest from sagging once you start adding pouches and items.

Outer attachments allow you to carry extra necessary gear that may not fit on your waist. There are several things that you can carry on your vest, such as:

• An extra set of handcuffs
• Pepper spray
• An extra magazine
• Taser
• Baton
• Notebook
• Keys
• Flashlight

When you add things to your vest carrier, remember to place them in logical areas that allow you to quickly access the things you need the most. It’s not necessary to fill every attachment space.

The armor plates themselves are quite heavy and, when you start adding plate carrier accessories, the load is going to get even heavier. Be careful when you add items and pouches to the front of your vest carrier, as they will increase the risk that you’ll snag it on something.

Don’t place bulky items and pouches over your magazines, or you may not be able to access them. When mounting pouches, it’s also important not to place them in spots that interfere with getting to your holster or other things on your belt.

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS ON WHERE TO PLACE GEAR ON YOUR VEST

When adding things to your vest carrier, you want to keep your shoulders clear. Keeping this area clear lets you block shots and transition from your weak side. Make sure that you don’t mount things in places that interfere with your ability to shoulder weapons. Route communications gear and hydrating tubes in a way that prevents them from being a snagging hazard or getting in the way.

It’s also important to balance out the load on your vest. Normally, you would want to carry more items on your weak side so you could access things with your dominant hand. However, you also want to put some things in the center to distribute the weight you’re carrying.

Setting up your tactical vest correctly is vital to how you do your job and how you respond to threats. It’s also important if you’re wearing a vest for outdoor activities. Outer vests allow you to carry more critical gear and take some pressure off your gun belt. Follow these tips for setting up your vest, and you should be comfortable and be able to access your gear when you need it.