For centuries, people have been shielding themselves from enemy weapons using armor. For whatever reason, even with the numbers and power of modern weapons, civilian body armor has become a contentious subject. Call me crazy, but to avoid death, I’d wear a magic talisman if it would actually help. Most people who are reading this understand that ballistic plates are just another safety device. In order to wear plates, you need a way to carry them. Plate carriers may not have a very creative name, but they offer tons of utility. In recent years, many fitness fanatics have started using them to intensify their workouts. Whatever your reasons for wanting a plate carrier, quality is of utmost importance. The last thing you want is a carrier to fail, costing you your life or your toes. 5.11 Tactical has entered the chat with their TacTec Plate Carrier. 

5.11 Tactical @ TFB:

• Join the Celebration: 5.11 Tactical’s 20th Anniversary and 5.11 Days Event!
• [EnforceTac 2023] European 5.11 High Tech Cold Weather Gear
• 5.11 Tactical’s ABR Academy Classes Return Along with the USCCA

The 5.11 Tactical TacTec Plate Carrier: Specifications

• Material: 500D nylon
• Plate dimensions: Medium and large ESAPI
• Colors: Ranger Green, Black, Storm, Kangaroo, MultiCam, Dark Navy
• MSRP: $215.00

Getting Set Up

If you’re looking for the slickest minimalist plate carrier, this isn’t the one. It also isn’t even close to being the bulkiest, thanks in part to the laser-cut MOLLE. It does, however, add more capabilities than the slick carriers. I’m a bit of a sucker for olive drab, so I opted for the Ranger Green color, but there are others available.

The shoulder straps feature generous padding and are adjustable. The Extendable GrabDrag handle is made to extend and make it easier for you to be dragged to safety in case of injury or emergency. There are side panels available, but the TacTec will come to you with the large airflow holes in the cummerbund. The cummerbund can be adjusted from 52” to 57”.

The cables inside the shoulder straps are part of the one-handed quick-release cable system. This is meant to help you or someone else quickly remove the plate carrier to render aid. The carrier is made from 500D nylon and fits medium to large ESAPI plates, as well as Rogue Weight Vest Plates. I attached some Blue Force Gear Ten-Speed pouches, loaded up my mags, and headed to the range.

Keeping Your Heart Healthy

Since the TacTec Plate Carrier can accommodate Rogue plates, it could be a good option for those looking for an exercise vest. I initially ordered this PC for use in The Proving Grounds, so I have quite a bit of time running my local trails with it on. I’ll tell you, if you plan to use it for exercise, make sure it’s adjusted properly. If it’s crooked, you’ll end up with a lot of soreness in some weird places, but that’s true for any piece of gear. The padding in the shoulders is a life-saver when there are 15 extra pounds lifting and slamming back onto your body during your spicy stroll. 

The part of the vest that rests against your body is padded in the front and back. The padded panels are covered in mesh with airflow channels built-in. After putting your plates into their sleeve, there are two small tabs that hook from the front, around the cummerbund, and attach to the underside of the carrier. 

Up top, there’s an admin pouch with a hook and loop closure. This is great for carrying your ID, CHP, or whatever else you need while on a run and away from home. 

Keeping Your Heart Intact

Working out is great and all, but what if you need the TacTec to be used for its original purpose? I loaded it up with some Hyperion Armor RF2/Lvl III+ plates, put on my belt, and got to work. The PC was comfortable even with the 15-pound training plates. Putting two sub-five-pound plates in made it an even more enjoyable experience. I did a lot of moving around, and the airflow channels kept me cool. I could literally feel the breeze traveling across my back.

The Extendable GrabDrag handle has interested me since 5.11 first showed it. The idea is that the extending handle makes it easier for someone to drag you to safety, and also allows them to keep some distance from possible incoming fire.

Don’t Break My Heart

Using the 5.11 Tactical TacTec Plate Carrier was an overall good experience. I’ve had slicker carriers and they worked well, but the level of comfort was always subpar. I’ll gladly take a bit more bulk for a better ride. If you use one for work, your considerations will be different than mine, but I think we can all agree that comfort is a good thing.

I have one gripe, though. At the bottom of the front panel, 5.11 decided to compromise the integrity of the MOLLE system so that they could add branding. It hasn’t led directly to any problems that I’ve seen, but it seems like an unnecessary weak point. I’d prefer they moved this tab elsewhere.

I’m impressed with the GrabDrag handle. I don’t know of any other company that has put time and money into improving their drag handle. This could potentially save your life or the life of a friend, and I think any improvements toward that goal are a win.

If you’d like to give the TacTec Plate Carrier a shot, you can pick one up directly from the 5.11 Tactical website. Give them a like and follow on social media, too. They can be found on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube. Keep yourself in shape and maintain the same number of holes you were born with!