The Best Safariland Outer Vest Carrier

Rebecca Stewart
13 min readApr 5, 2024

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Looking for a top-notch outer vest carrier that’s both functional and stylish? Look no further than the Safariland Outer Vest Carrier. In this article, we’ll round up some of the latest and greatest offerings from Safariland, providing you with an informative overview of each product and why they stand out in the market. Whether you’re a law enforcement officer, a security professional, or simply someone looking for a high-quality outer vest carrier, we’ve got you covered. So buckle up and get ready to explore the world of Safariland’s outer vest carriers.

The Top 8 Best Safariland Outer Vest Carrier

  1. Tactical Level IV Bulletproof Vest with Drag Handle — Protect and perform with the BulletSafe Tactical Plate Carrier — a lightweight, comfortable, and effective Level IV ballistic vest designed for law enforcement, security professionals, and civilians alike.
  2. Expert Carrier Vest with 10" x 12" Soft Panels — Black — The Safariland Outer Vest Carrier offers shooters a versatile platform for their plates and accessories, seamlessly blending sturdiness and comfort with MOLLE webbing customization and breathable mesh inner panels.
  3. Comfortable, concealable BodyShield External Vest Carrier — Elbeco’s BodyShield External Vest Carrier lets officers comfortably move vests off the body, while hiding them under the uniform, boasting 600 denier polyester fabric and a zippered waist closure for convenience and UPF 50 protection.
  4. Lightweight Safariland Outer Vest Carrier with Adjustable Waistband — Guard Dog Body Armor’s TRAKR-FDE is a lightweight, versatile plate carrier featuring adjustable waistband and magazine pouches, perfect for ultimate protection and comfortable wear.
  5. Versatile tactical load bearing carrier for concealed gear — Experience ultimate comfort and customization with the HRT LBAC Plate Carrier, the perfect choice for efficient load bearing and easy access to mission-essential gear.
  6. Comfortable, Versatile, and Adjustable Tactical Vest — The Modular Rapid Assault Tactical Plate Carrier Vest offers unmatched versatility, adjustable fit, and exceptional durability, making it the ultimate choice for all tactical situations and user types.
  7. Versatile Safariland Outdoor Plate Carrier — Experience unparalleled comfort and durability with the Velocity Systems Mayflower Scarab SC3 Plate Carrier Ranger Green / Small, featuring patent-pending swivel shoulder straps for a perfect fit and MOLLE webbing for enhanced versatility.
  8. Versatile, Adjustable Concealed Ballistic Vest — The Point Blank Male Elite Concealed Armor Carrier offers a tailored fit, minimized visibility, and superior ballistic suspension, with 8-point adjustability, making it the ultimate choice for officers seeking reliable protection.

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Reviews

Tactical Level IV Bulletproof Vest with Drag Handle

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In my daily life, I tried out the BulletSafe Tactical Plate Carrier, a vest designed to hold BulletSafe’s Level IV ballistic plates. The first thing I noticed was the drag handle, which made it easy to carry or handle in an emergency situation. The weight of the vest, at just 2.3 lbs. , was also impressive, allowing for comfort and mobility. The interior was padded, and the shoulder pads had a non-slip feature, which prevented any discomfort or irritation while wearing it.

One downside I encountered was that the materials felt a bit cheap initially. However, despite this, the vest has held up well under the weight of approximately 15 pounds of equipment, which is quite significant. Another issue was the adjustable waist straps, which seemed to have room for improvement in terms of usability and ease of adjustment.

Overall, my experience with the BulletSafe Tactical Plate Carrier has been mixed. While it offers reliable Level IV protection for law enforcement or security professionals, as well as civilians who need extra protection, there are still some aspects that could be improved to enhance the overall user experience.

Expert Carrier Vest with 10" x 12" Soft Panels — Black

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I’ve been wearing the Expert Heavy Duty Plate Carrier Vest in black for a while now, and let me tell you, it’s made a real difference during my outdoor activities. The 10" x 12" soft panels, while designed for larger plates, were a perfect fit for me and my 11" x 14" armor plates.

One aspect I particularly appreciate is the flexible soft panel design, which conforms nicely to my body shape. I’ve noticed I can move my arms more freely while wearing this vest, making it incredibly comfortable. I’ve heard some concerns about this vest being too heavy, but that hasn’t been my experience. In fact, I find it surprisingly lightweight, especially given its sturdy construction.

However, there were a few issues I encountered. First, the side pockets sometimes struggle to hold my armor plates securely. I had to switch to larger plates to find a better fit. Secondly, the vest occasionally feels a bit constricting around the midsection. This has been less of an issue after I adjusted the length of the cummerbund.

Despite these minor hiccups, the Expert Heavy Duty Plate Carrier Vest has been a very reliable addition to my gear. Its durability and adjustability make it a worthwhile investment, especially for those looking for a balance between protection and comfort. Just remember, it might take a bit of trial and error, like switching out the plates, to get the perfect fit.

Comfortable, concealable BodyShield External Vest Carrier

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I’ve been using the Elbeco BodyShield External Vest Carrier in my daily life, and let me tell you, it’s made a big difference in my comfort and ease of dressing. The 600 denier polyester fabric is not only durable, but it also helps maintain the original look of the vest.

However, one thing that stood out to me is the FastLock side closure, making it super convenient for me to fasten and undress it. The antimicrobial technology in the lining and neck opening is a definite plus, reducing odor-causing bacteria and providing a fresh feel throughout the day.

Overall, I’m a big fan of this vest carrier.

Lightweight Safariland Outer Vest Carrier with Adjustable Waistband

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I recently had the opportunity to try out the Guard Dog Body Armor Trackr Plate Carrier in Flat Dark Earth. What stood out to me was its lightweight design — it’s an ultra-lightweight carrier, weighing in under 2lbs without plates. This feature was a game changer during my activities, as it made carrying the vest much more comfortable without sacrificing protection.

However, the Trackr Plate Carrier also had a few drawbacks. I noticed that the buckles were not compatible with certain belts, which caused inconvenience while trying to secure the vest. Additionally, the overall design didn’t seem to offer as many features as some other plate carriers. But despite those minor setbacks, the Trackr Plate Carrier still offered good value and was easy to use, thanks to its adjustable waistband and Swift clips for quick removal. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those looking for a lightweight, easy-to-wear plate carrier.

Versatile tactical load bearing carrier for concealed gear

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Safariland HRT LBAC Plate Carrier — The Perfect Blend of Comfort and Customization

I had the opportunity to test out the Safariland HRT LBAC Plate Carrier, and let me tell you, it’s nothing short of amazing. As someone who’s in constant need of carrying heavy gear for missions, I was blown away by this carrier’s ability to distribute the weight evenly without causing any discomfort.

What really stood out to me was the lightweight and stiffened cummerbund core. This little detail makes a huge difference in relieving pressure points and keeping me comfortable throughout long periods of time. Another impressive aspect is the customizable shoulder straps, which can be configured to fit both right-handed and left-handed shooters.

One of the coolest things about this plate carrier is its “one-size-fits-all” approach without sacrificing performance. It’s built with high-quality materials such as 500 Denier Cordura and Du Pont Teflon, ensuring durability and long-lasting use. The attachment points for added equipment also make it super versatile for various missions.

However, nothing is perfect, and the HRT LBAC does have a few drawbacks. Firstly, the quick-release buckle can be a bit tricky to figure out initially. It took me a couple of tries to get the hang of it, but once I did, it became second nature. The other minor issue I encountered was the lack of proper documentation or user manual. It would have been nice to have a guide to help me understand all the carrier’s features and customization options.

In conclusion, the Safariland HRT LBAC Plate Carrier is an outstanding choice for anyone who needs a comfortable, customizable, and versatile load-bearing solution. It might have a few minor drawbacks, but the benefits far outweigh them. If you’re someone who carries a lot of gear and is in search of a reliable plate carrier, this one’s definitely worth considering.

Comfortable, Versatile, and Adjustable Tactical Vest

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I was excited to try out the Modular Rapid Assault Tactical Plate Carrier Vest in Coyote. This tactical vest is designed to be the ultimate combat-ready companion for all kinds of situations. Its modular and low-profile design stood out to me right away, making it easy to add essential elements to it.

One of the first things I noticed was the full-body MOLLE system. It allows for the easy addition of more items, which comes in handy for various occasions. The vest is crafted from 1000D nylon, providing exceptional durability and a reinforced shoulder strap. The multiple patch panels are a great feature for customization.

Although the vest has a few cons, such as its weight and the lack of color options, I found it easy to work with and adapt to my needs. The quick-release cummerbund and shoulder straps make putting it on and taking it off a breeze. It can accommodate 8'’x10'’ and 10'’x12'’ plates, and its MOLLE compatibility allows for modular attachments.

Overall, the Modular Rapid Assault Tactical Plate Carrier Vest in Coyote is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and versatile tactical vest. Its comfortable design, variety of pockets, and durable materials make it an ideal option for both law enforcement and outdoor use.

Versatile Safariland Outdoor Plate Carrier

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I’ve been using the Velocity Systems Mayflower Scarab SC3 Plate Carrier in my daily life, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer. This carrier’s unique design and features make it incredibly comfortable yet durable. The patented swivel shoulder straps have been my favorite part — they alleviate any fit issues that I used to face with traditional fixed angle shoulder straps.

One thing that really stood out to me was the breathability of the Mayflower Scarab SC3. It’s made from 500 Denier Cordura with a mesh interior lining, which makes it perfect for long, hot days. The ULTRAcomp shoulder straps are a great touch too, ensuring that the carrier sits correctly and comfortably on any user, regardless of neck thickness or shoulder broadness.

In terms of versatility, the Mayflower Scarab SC3 is unbeatable. It can hold hard armor plates up to 1 inch thick and offers various options for plate storage. Its lightweight and breathable construction, as well as its customizable cummerbund, make it a fantastic choice for those who want a reliable and comfortable armor carrier.

Despite being a bit bulky in design, the Velocity Systems Mayflower Scarab SC3 Plate Carrier more than makes up for that with its outstanding performance and comfort. This is one carrier that I would highly recommend to anyone in need of a top-notch plate carrier.

Versatile, Adjustable Concealed Ballistic Vest

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As a dedicated officer, I was on the lookout for a reliable, concealed armor carrier that didn’t compromise my comfort and mobility. When I stumbled upon the Point Blank Male Elite Concealed Armor Carrier, I was excited to give it a try.

The first thing that stood out was the ergonomic design, offering a tailored fit with minimum visibility. The narrow front tail design provided a secure, less bulky fit that didn’t weigh me down, even during long hours of duty. I also appreciated the removable elastic cummerbund, which stabilized the vest without restricting my movement.

One of the more impressive features was the low-profile loop, which offered attachment points for four elastic side straps that allowed for 8-point adjustability. This made it easy for me to find the perfect fit for my body type, ensuring the carrier didn’t interfere with my holster or other equipment.

Another standout feature was the Self-Suspending Ballistic System (SSBS), which prevented the ballistic panels from rolling or sagging inside the carrier. This guaranteed my safety and provided peace of mind during tense situations. The external YKK standard zipper on the outer lower torso made it easy for me to remove the ballistic panel when needed.

However, there was one aspect that could be improved. While the peel-back shoulder design provided ready access to the ballistic suspension for easy adjustment, it sometimes felt a bit stiff. Nonetheless, overall, the Point Blank Male Elite Concealed Armor Carrier proved to be a reliable and comfortable choice for my daily duties.

Buyer’s Guide

When looking for a Safariland Outer Vest Carrier, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you’re making the right choice for your specific needs. This buyer’s guide will walk you through the most important aspects to help you find the perfect carrier for you.

Material and Construction

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The material and construction of the carrier are crucial factors to consider. Safariland Outer Vest Carriers are typically available in ballistic nylon or Cordura fabrics. Ballistic nylon is stronger and more durable but tends to be heavier, while Cordura is lighter and more breathable. Additionally, some carriers feature reinforced stitching and stress points for added durability.

Weight Distribution

Consider how the carrier distributes weight across your body. A well-designed carrier should distribute the weight evenly, reducing strain on your shoulders and back. Look for features such as adjustable shoulder straps and padded backs to enhance comfort.

Customization Options

Some Safariland Outer Vest Carriers offer customization options to suit your specific needs. This may include additional pockets, holster type, or additional attachment points for gear. Consider your requirements and choose a carrier that can accommodate them.

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Comfort and Breathability

Comfort is a vital factor when choosing a carrier. The best carriers strike a balance between functionality and comfort. Breathability is essential, especially in hot or humid environments. Look for carriers with mesh backing or other ventilation options to keep you cool during long periods of wear.

Compatibility with Your Equipment

Ensure the carrier is compatible with the gear you’ll be carrying. Consider the size and configuration of the pockets, the type of holster used, and whether it can accommodate additional accessories such as a radio or flashlight.

Maneuverability and Movement

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A good carrier should not restrict your movement. Look for carriers with adjustable shoulder straps and waist belts that allow for a comfortable and unrestricted range of motion. Additionally, consider the overall design of the carrier to ensure it does not impede your ability to move quickly and efficiently.

Price and Value

Finally, consider your budget and how much value the carrier offers. High-quality Safariland Outer Vest Carriers can be expensive, but they often come with additional features and benefits that justify the cost. Weigh the cost against the features and comfort offered to find the carrier that provides the best value for your money.

Remember, the ideal Safariland Outer Vest Carrier for you will depend on your specific requirements and circumstances. Consider the factors outlined in this guide, and you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect carrier for your needs.

FAQ

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What is the Safariland Outer Vest Carrier?

The Safariland Outer Vest Carrier is a versatile and durable vest designed for carrying a wide range of firearms and equipment. It is designed to be worn over clothing and provides a comfortable and secure solution for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and other individuals who require a reliable and functional vest for their duties.

What materials is the Safariland Outer Vest Carrier made from?

The Safariland Outer Vest Carrier is made from high-quality, durable materials, including ballistic nylon and polyester, which offer resistance to wear and tear. These materials are also lightweight, ensuring ease of movement and comfort for the wearer.

What are the key features of the Safariland Outer Vest Carrier?

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  • Compatibility with a variety of firearms and equipment, including holsters, magazines, and flashlights
  • Secure and adjustable straps that evenly distribute weight and prevent slipping
  • Padded shoulders and back panels for enhanced comfort during long periods of wear
  • Multiple pockets and attachment points for storing additional gear and equipment
  • High visibility colors for increased safety in high-risk environments

What is the weight of the Safariland Outer Vest Carrier?

The weight of the Safariland Outer Vest Carrier will vary depending on the specific model and its features. However, generally speaking, these vests are designed to be lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. The use of high-quality, durable materials ensures that the vest is both functional and practical.

What is the difference between the Safariland Outer Vest Carrier and other vests on the market?

The Safariland Outer Vest Carrier sets itself apart from other vests on the market through its combination of versatility, durability, and comfort. Its compatibility with various firearms and equipment ensures that it can be adapted to the needs of almost any user, while its high-quality materials and thoughtful design features make it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Are the Safariland Outer Vest Carrier models available in different colors?

Yes, the Safariland Outer Vest Carrier is available in a variety of colors, including high-visibility shades, to suit the individual needs and preferences of its users. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for various applications and environments.

How do I properly care for and maintain my Safariland Outer Vest Carrier?

To ensure the longevity and functionality of your Safariland Outer Vest Carrier, it is recommended that you clean it regularly and store it properly when not in use. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper care and maintenance.

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