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Airsoft is more than just a hobby; it's an intense tactical sport that simulates combat scenarios. While the adrenaline rush might dampen a few battle welts you may acquire, having a proper protective chest piece can keep you playing longer and hurting less. Protective gear in airsoft can be a necessity if being riddled with BB welts isn't your primary reason for playing. Among your protective equipment, the airsoft vest stands as a center point piece, and should always be a consideration for beginners who are just embarking on their airsoft journey.


As you begin to gear up for your intense airsoft battles to come, it may seem daunting to find a perfect option with a good balance of protection and functionality. Here are the main factors you should consider when choosing the perfect plate carrier for your needs:


Protection for Your Torso: First and foremost, a plate carrier will protect your torso. In airsoft, your torso is your biggest target, and reducing the pain of getting shot may actually reduce game frustration. Look for a plate carrier that offers compatibility with foam plates to provide an extra layer of protection.


Carrying Essentials: An effective plate carrier should not only shield you but also serve as a practical solution for carrying your gear. Ensure that the plate carrier you choose offers ample space and secure attachment points for your magazines and accessories. This keeps your essentials within easy reach during intense firefights.


Customization Options: Every airsofter has unique preferences and needs. Opt for a plate carrier that allows for customization. MOLLE webbing, hook and loop panels, and modular pouches provide flexibility in organizing and arranging your gear according to your preferences.


Comfort and Fit: Comfort is key during prolonged airsoft games. A well-fitting plate carrier ensures that you can move freely and comfortably while maintaining a snug and secure fit. Certain plate carriers will fit better for a certain type of body, though our list contains options for just about everyone. Adjustable straps and ergonomic designs that distribute the weight evenly are a big factor.


Cool Factor: Let's not forget the cool factor. A stylish plate carrier not only enhances your tactical appearance but also boosts your confidence on the field. After all, looking cool can be a morale booster during intense skirmishes! If decorating your tactical attire with morale patches is your thing, make sure to pick a plate carrier with hook and loop backing areas.

Avid airsoft enthusiasts know that your gear can make all the difference between having a good or bad time on the battlefield. One spectacular piece of equipment that can be your one-buy solution to many gear related issues you might encounter is the Avengers Zero G Laser Cut Plate Carrier. This remarkable plate carrier offers a multitude of benefits that can bring your airsoft game to the next level.


First and foremost, the Avengers Zero G Plate Carrier boasts a sleek, modern design that not only looks impressive but also serves a practical purpose. The laser-cut MOLLE webbing on this carrier allows you to customize your loadout efficiently with its precise equipment slots. Its perfect balance of sleek design and functionality won't disappoint an airsofter with higher standards. Comfort is paramount during extended airsoft skirmishes, and the Avengers Zero G Plate Carrier excels in this department. It is undeniably one of the most comfortable plate carriers in its price range. With padded shoulder straps and an adjustable cummerbund, you'll experience superior comfort even during intense battles. For those who prefer to simulate the weight of real plates with steel inserts, this plate carrier is up to the task.


On the topic of cummerbunds, the Avengers Zero G Plate Carrier features a rigid cummerbund that helps it maintain its shape, even in the most demanding skirmishes. This stability ensures that your gear stays securely in place, preventing unwanted shifting during critical moments. Additionally, the carrier comes equipped with hook and loop backing patches, allowing you to attach your favorite patches, nameplates, or identification markers with ease. It's a small but appreciated detail that adds a personal touch to your loadout. As a cherry on top, the Avengers Zero G Plate Carrier includes a triple magazine insert placard, perfect for carrying your extra magazines. This convenient feature gives sets you up with an option for carrying your M4 magazines right from the get-go, reducing worry about whether an aftermarket pouch will fit just right.


This plate carrier is perfect for you if...

• You want something that covers all the basic grounds a modern plate carrier should have.


• You tend to play more aggressively and want something that will keep its fit well under intense activity.


• You want an easy, practical solution to completing an M4 oriented loadout.


• You want something comfortable on your shoulders for extended periods of play.


• You want plenty of space for your choice of plate carrier inserts, whether it be foam, steel, or hard plastic.

Note: The Avengers Zero G does not come with a set of foam inserts! We recommend EMG Professional Training EVA Dummy SAPI Plate Set (9"x12") - Set of 2 to be purchased along with it.







For our burlier airsofters looking to get in to the hobby, this plate carrier is for you. The Matrix Tactical High Speed Plate Carrier is an excellent beginner option for those who need protection, somewhere to store their magazines on the field, and don't want to spend too much.


The most notable feature of the Matrix Tactical High Speed Plate Carrier is its astounding amount of room for accessory pouches. Whether you need to carry extra magazines, grenades, or any other essential gear, this carrier's extensive real estate has you covered. Your customization options are virtually limitless, allowing you to tailor your loadout to suit your specific mission or playing style. It's one of the largest on the market, making it perfect for those with bigger bodies who often struggle to find gear that comfortably fits. The Matrix Tactical High Speed Plate Carrier ensures that larger players can enjoy a snug and secure fit, without compromising on mobility.


If protection is paramount, this carrier more than excels. It's larger coverage offers a wider protection from BBs, providing a reliable shield against those high-speed projectiles. You can charge into the fray with confidence, knowing that this plate carrier has you covered if the enemy's whole firing squad unloads their magazines at you all at once. To sweeten the deal, the Matrix Tactical High Speed Plate Carrier comes equipped with a triple magazine pouch, providing a convenient and accessible solution for holding your spare magazines.

This plate carrier is perfect for you if...

• You're a larger framed individual and are worried some of the smaller options may be too snug.


• You enjoy having plenty of space to add accessory pouches in the future.


• You want something to protect you and carry your magazines without breaking the bank.


• You want a wider degree of body coverage than some of the smaller plate carriers offer.

If you're on the hunt for the ultimate plate carrier that combines comfort, versatility, and a stylish design, look no further than the Phantom Gear Wraith T3 Plate Carrier. This exceptional piece of gear is a game-changer for airsoft beginners and veterans alike, and here's why it deserves a spot as your chest piece of choice.


First and foremost, the Phantom Gear Wraith T3 Plate Carrier redefines the standards for a budget plate carrier. Even at the sub $80 price point, when adjusted properly it can be the pinnacle of plate carrier comfort. Designed with an interior air mesh, this carrier provides exceptional ventilation and cushioning even during the most intense skirmishes. Say goodbye to overheating and discomfort, as this carrier ensures you stay cool and focused on the game. Size is always a consideration when it comes to plate carriers, and the Phantom Gear Wraith T3 suits it's niche perfectly. It's on the smaller side, making it ideal for smaller bodies. No more struggling with oversized gear that hinders your mobility. This carrier offers a snug and secure fit, allowing you to move freely and swiftly on the battlefield. Gear that fits you well elevates you from looking like a airsoft rookie to a tactical operator.


Customization is key, and the Phantom Gear Wraith T3 Plate Carrier delivers on that front as well. It comes with a MOLLE placard that can be customized to your specific loadout preferences. Whether you need to attach pouches for magazines, grenades, or other essential gear, this carrier has you covered. One standout feature is the elastic cummerbund, which is not just any ordinary cummerbund. It's a versatile component that can hold a variety of accessories, but it excels at keeping spare magazines within easy reach. Even with the plate carrier's small size, this cummerbund offers a fantastic minimalist option for extra equipment storage.

This plate carrier is perfect for you if...

• Comfort is at the top of your list of must-haves for an airsoft plate carrier.


• You run a variety of setups and need something versatile enough to work with all of them.


• You think the unique camo options it comes in are super cool.


• You're on the smaller side, and don't want to look like you're posing with equipment that's too big for you.

We get it. You've just spent most of your budget a super nice primary weapon and have left little room for accessories or protective equipment. Luckily for you, airsoft doesn't have to be expensive! There's always a decent budget option to get you up and running for a fraction of the price of it's leading competitors. In the plate carrier department, that happens to be none other than the Matrix Low-Profile Placard-Ready Plate Carrier. Don't let its suspiciously low price fool you; This plate carriers degree of quality is deceptively high.


First and foremost, let's talk about build construction. The Matrix Low-Profile Plate Carrier boasts a build construction that's comparable to the Phantom Gear Wraith Plate Carrier we discussed earlier. What sets it apart? It's the fact that this plate carrier comes at less than half of the price, making it an incredibly cost-effective option without compromising on quality. Organization matters, especially when you're in the heat of a game. The zipper admin pocket on the Matrix Low-Profile Placard-Ready Plate Carrier provides a dedicated space for your personal belongings, ensuring that you have quick and easy access to essential items like keys, notepads, small tools, or your wallet.


One of the standout features of this carrier is its compatibility with hook and loop based placards, adding a layer of versatility to your loadout. You can easily switch placards based on your mission or role, adapting to the ever-changing demands of the battlefield. Customization is a key aspect of any plate carrier, and this one delivers with hook and loop backing in the admin section that allows you to proudly display your favorite patches, nameplates, or identification markers. Make your gear truly your own with this convenient feature.


If you find yourself needing pouches to add on in the future, we recommend: Phantom Gear Front Flap Triple Magazine "Morale" Pouch (Color: Black / Ver. 2)


Fit and comfort are crucial, and the Matrix Low-Profile Placard-Ready Plate Carrier excels in this area with its minimalist elastic cummerbund that ensures a snug fit. You won't have to worry about cumbersome straps or adjustments during a game, allowing you to stay agile and focused. As a bonus, this plate carrier comes equipped with foam plates designed to reduce the impact of BBs, providing an extra layer of protection while maintaining a lightweight and low-profile design.

This plate carrier is perfect for you if...

• Your budget is tight, but you still want a plate carrier to build on in the future.


• You rather have some chest protection than none.


• You highly value comfort in a plate carrier.


• You enjoy it's wide range of camo options.

At the final spot on our list, we have a premium pick that we still highly recommend for anyone just beginning their grand airsoft adventure. The LBX 0300 Tactical Modular Plate Carrier is not simply an "airsoft plate carrier." It is a highly durable piece of military-grade equipment recommended by Navy SEALs themselves. If you're looking for something that will withstand years of heavy use, or can possibly be used interchangeably between your real-steel and airsoft setup, this high end plate carrier fits the bill.


When spending a premium penny on a plate carrier, you're probably going to demand some versatility. The LBX 0300 Tactical Modular Plate Carrier is designed to adapt to your specific setup needs. Whether you're a precision marksman, a support gunner, or a CQB specialist, this carrier can be configured to suit your mission. Its modular design allows you to add or remove pouches, placards, and accessories with ease, ensuring that your loadout is tailored to your playing style.


But versatility isn't the only strength of the LBX 0300. It's also engineered to withstand the intense gameplay of high-demand airsoft events like Milsim West. When the stakes are high and the action is relentless, you need gear that won't let you down. It's constructed from high-quality materials, including rugged nylon fabrics and reinforced stitching. Critical stress points are doubly reinforced as well to ensure there are absolutely no points of failure. Even if you're crawling through the dry brush of the wilderness, the material is abrasion resistant, showing little signs of wear in scrape-prone environments.


One of the standout features of this plate carrier is its ability to hold real steel plates. This authenticity factor is a perfect for those seeking a truly immersive airsoft experience. You can load up your LBX 0300 with real plates for added weight and realism, or opt for airsoft-specific inserts for a lighter load. Some airsoft events even grant you an extra revive if you're using weighted plates. To take advantage of that, you're going to need a plate carrier than can keep up with the stress.

This plate carrier is perfect for you if...

• You want a plate carrier that will carry you years into the future.


• You want something of high enough quality to be used with real steel as well.


• You see yourself playing more intense outdoor games.


• You prefer buying something of higher quality without overspending on other real steel options.

As a beginner in the world of airsoft, choosing the right vest or plate carrier is crucial. These top 5 options provide a solid foundation for your gear setup, giving you the functionality and affordability needed to kickstart your airsoft journey with confidence. So, gear up, get out there, and enjoy the epic thrill of airsoft!