I love chest rigs.
You've got access to all your mags, IFAK, and whatever else you've packed in there.
The best thing is -
The best chest rig will take you about a second to throw on. And with the right rig, you’re always ready to react and respond at a moment’s notice… to any kind of situation.
The problem is, choosing the best chest rig for your needs is HARD.
You need to sort through different costs, colors, looks, models, functionality, etc... it's enough to make your head spin.
In today's article, I will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the best tactical chest rig for you.
Ready? Let's get started...
IN THIS ARTICLE
Compare The Best Tactical Chest Rigs
| Image | Chest Rig | Price | Best For | Mag Pouches | Pistol Mag Pouches | MOLLE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Helikon-Tex Range Line Mini Rig | $$ | AR/AK | 4 | 4 | Yes |
 | 2. Rapdom Tactical | $ | AR/AK | 8 | 6 | Yes |
 | 3. Condor MCR7 Ronin | $ | AR/AK | 0 (Modular) | 0 (Modular) | Yes |
 | 4. Condor MCR6 Rapid Assault | $ | AR | 6 | 6 | Yes |
 | 5. Condor MCR5 Recon | $ | AR | 6 | 6 | Yes |
 | 6. 5.11 Tactical TacTec | $$ | AR/AK | 6 | 6 | Yes |
 | 7. BDS Tactical MVO | $$ | AR | 6 | 6 | Yes |
 | 8. BDS Tactical V-Ops | $$ | AR/AK | 6 | 6 | Yes |
 | 9. Haley D3CR-H | $$$ | AR | 4 | 2 | Yes |
The 9 Best Tactical Chest Rigs On The Market Reviewed (AK, AR, & MOLLE)
1. Helikon-Tex Range Line, Training Mini Rig - Best All-Rounder Chest Rig For Most People
Helicon-Tex Mini Rig is the best chest rig all around for most people. Quality-wise, it hits the sweet spot between cheaper rigs like Rapdom or Condor, and the more expensive professional chest rigs like Haley's D3CR-H.
Construction
- Material: 100% Cordura 500D Nylon
- Type: Adjustable universal H-Strap harness with buckle closure
- Mag Capacity: 4 rifle mag pouches, 4 smaller pouches (pistol mags, flashlight, etc.)
- Extra Pouches: Big central cargo pocket, Medical pouch (PALS/MOLLE mounted)
- AR/AK Mags: Both
- Velcro: 2 velcro ID panels in front, 1 in the back
Helikon-Tex has everything you need if you’re looking for a ready-made tactical chest rig with all the pouches included. The 4 large rifle & 4 smaller pistol/tool pouches will cover all your needs.
And unlike other entry-level chest rigs, this one also comes with 2 large middle pouches that you can use to store any additional gear you need besides the mags.
Because of these large pockets, Helikon-Tex Mini Rig is one of the most versatile entry-level chest rigs on the market. You don’t need to buy extra pouches for this rig even if you need that extra space. The large pockets have got you covered.
And in case you needed more space – the rig comes with MOLLE webbing attachments that you can use to customize it further with your own pouches.
Comfort
The adjustable universal H-Strap Harness will fit most body types. Weight distribution is good even when fully loaded with 4 carbine mags and 4 pistol mags. The lower pouch will flop a round a little when jogging, but in all other positions it’s surprisingly comfortable.
The rig was comfortable when firing from a prone position and the mag pouches were easy to access. The rig also fits over a plate carrier, if that’s what you’re looking for – the straps are long enough.
The weight of 660 gr / 1.45 lbs. is about standard for all tactical chest rigs, and you won’t have a problem of it being too heavy when you fill up the included pouches (unless you load it up with too many additional MOLLE pouches).
Bottom Line
Pros:
- 4 rifle + 4 pistol pouches
- Large central pockets
- Comfortable to wear
- Well-built
Cons:
- Pricier than basic Chinese chest rigs
Helikon-Tex Mini Rig is one of the best tactical chest rigs if you want something that doesn’t need tweaking & customization before use. The construction is tougher than the cheaper options, and you can’t beat having all all of those pouches that are included out-of-the-box. It's probably the best money-to-value chest rig setup you can find for both AK and AR mags.
Going with the cheaper Condor / Rapdom rigs might work and will save you some money – but they won’t be as tough, or versatile as Helikon-Tex.
Unless you’re on a very tight budget, you won’t find a better rig in this price range.
2. Rapdom Tactical MOLLE Chest Rig - Best Pouch Rig for AKs
Construction
If you need and AK chest rig - Rapdom Tactical Chest Rig is the one for you.
Other chest rigs won't fit the larger AK magazines. This one ismade for them:
- AK COMPATIBLE
- 3 double-stack mag pouches (2 mags each)
- 6 pistol mag pouches
- 2 concealed mag pouches
- Removable kangaroo map pouch
- Quick-release buckle
First off - Rapdom's build quality is about the same as Condor.The only exception is that there is nohydration bladder pocket on this one.
Overall everything holds together well.Strong stitching and good nylon.
Still... the rig is made in China. The plastic bits are cheap and might need to be replaced eventually. But Rapdom's quality control seems to be good - couldn't find any complaints online.
Comfort
The rig is adjustable but on the big side. The sizing should be about the same as Condor's, as they also fit better on larger people.
With that being said, I couldn't find a single person complaining about the fit on this rig. For modular lightweight rigs, it's one of the best chest rigs on the market today.
Bottom Line
Rapdom offers great value for money. If you've got an AK - this is the best tactical rig that I recommend. It's readily accessible for hunting, and any other activities you might think of.
Otherwise, I would go for Condor as their reputation is a little bit better.
PROS:
- Cheap
- Good quality (Condor Equivalent)
- LOADS of space for mags
- Additional MOLLE options
- Fits AK mags and extra gear
CONS:
- Occasional QC issues
- Runs big
3. Condor MCR7 Ronin - Best Budget All-Rounder MOLLE Chest Rig
Construction
Here's what you're getting:
- Heavyweight webbing for modular attachment
- Swivi Lockster - Swivel Push - Button Release Buckle
- Padded H-Harness with hook & loop, D-rings, and webbing
- Two mesh map pockets (one on each side)
- Adjustable shoulder strap and girth
Condor MCR7 Ronin is the best budget MOLLE rig on the list.
This time without pockets and pouches. This rig is fully modular.
Meaning that you'll have to buy and attach your own MOLLE pouches to it.
Great, sturdy construction.Standard Condor quality - no complaints.
But because of the H-harness, the MCR7 is actually stronger than the other Condor rigs above. You can also see it when you compare the pictures.
Comfort
Can't beat the H-Harness.
This is one of the most comfortable chest rigs that you can get.
You get a better weight distribution. Comfortable to wear and move in - and it can take more weight than X-harness.
With that being said, this rig is also heavier than the X-harness rigs above due to all that extra material. And that weight can add up fast with those additional pouches.
Bottom Line
Go with Condor MCR7 if you want a chest rig you can play around with and tweak.
MOLLE is great - just not for beginners, and not if you're looking to save money on your first rig. (those pouches will cost you quite a bit)
The quality is great, but again, you might get an occasional rotten apple from the Chinese factory.
PROS:
- Cheap
- Reliable and Proven
- H-Harness very comfortable
- Loads of space for MOLLE
CONS:
- Occasional QC issues
- Won't fit waists smaller than 30 inches
- No pouches included
4. Condor MCR6 Tactical Rapid Assault Chest Rig
I can't think of a better first rig to get started than Condor MCR6(orMCR5 below). It's a basic rig that will be good for everyone.
It's proven in action and holds up well. I've used this chest rig before and have ZERO complaints with it.
It's a cheap way to start experimenting. Play around with Condor - and you'll have an idea about what you'll want to spend your big bucks on in the long term.
Construction
You're getting:
- Padded cross-back shoulder strap with webbing and D-rings
- Six (!) open-top mag pouches
- Four elastic loops (two each side)
- Front pocket pouch with hook and loop panel inside
- Special pocket for a hydration bladder in the back
- 3 different colors available
- Quick-release buckle
What makes this rig special is its magazine layout.You're getting 6 mag pouches that are spread out. I find the layout intuitive and easy to get used to (as opposed to stacked mag pouches).
The rig is built well - especially considering that it retails below $50. The stitching is good and lasts.
You've got MOLLE webbing on the sides and in the front for any extra gear you might need.
There is one common complaint with Condor: Plastic Parts. They are cheap and might break over time. They're not hard to replace, though.
Comfort
The rig is adjustable and will fit most people. I have no complaints about the fit - everything's comfortable and works fine. (I'm 6 foot 3 and fairly lean, for reference).
With that being said - if you're on the small side (around 30 inches in the waist), you'll need to pull the straps together real tight. That is about the smallest size that this rig can fit.
Other than that, front buckles can get in the way sometimes. But you get used to it.
Oh, and note that the rig will be tight and rigid when it first arrives. It took me about 2 days to wear mine in.
Bottom Line
MCR6 lightweight Chest Rig is my favorite rig from Condor. It's inexpensive and gives you the most bang for the buck. This could be the best chest rig to start and grow with.
You'll notice small flaws here and there. But at the end of the day, this rig holds your gear and stands up to abuse. It's Condor's most popular model for a reason.
PROS:
- Cheap
- Proven Condor Quality
- Mags comfortable to access
- 6 slots = more than you need
- Additional MOLLE options on shoulder and waist straps
CONS:
- Occasional QC issues
- Won't fit waists smaller than 30 inches
- Won't fit AK mags
5. Condor MCR5 Recon Chest Rig
Construction
- Padded cross-back shoulder strap with webbing and D-ring
- Swivi-Lockster - Quick release for the rig
- 3 built-in stacker/kangaroo style mag pouches fit 6 M4
mags AND 6 pistol mags - Two open top mag pouches (one on each side)
- Front pocket pouch with hook and loop panel inside (also known as hook and pile retainers)
- Additional mesh pocket on interior
- Size: Waist Size: 30"- 60" adjustable sizing
Condor MCR5 is a great starter rig, just like the MCR6 above. The only differenceis that MCR5 has stacked mags, while MCR6 has spread out mags.
Which one is better? Down to personal preference.
But MCR5 keeps the mags together - the weight is concentrated at the front of the rig.
This makes Condor MCR5 a bit worse in terms of weight distribution than the MCR6 above.But you also get better mobility (with no mags on the sides).
You've got MOLLE webbing on the sides of the rig for any extra gear you might need.
As usual with Condor you get good double stitching and nylon fabric. But the cheaper plastic parts can wear down with time.
Comfort
Easy to put on and take off. The fit is adjustable, but keep in mind that you'll have to tighten it to the max if your waist is ~30 inches.
As I said above, weight distribution is not the best. The rig will sag a little when fully loaded.
Bottom Line
Condor MCR5 is a great, great rig. It's certainly one of the best tactical chest rigs for the price.
I like the MCR6 above slightly more than this one... but at the end of the day, they're equal in terms of what you're getting.
People report occasional QC problems and you might as well. The good thing is that all rigs come with a warranty - double-check that yours is fine after you get it.
PROS:
- Cheap
- Reliable and Proven
- LOADS of space for mags
- Additional MOLLE options
CONS:
- Occasional QC issues
- Won't fit waists smaller than 30 inches
- Won't fit AK Mags
6. 5.11 Tactical TacTec Chest Rig
Construction
- One color (sandstone)
- MOLLE chest rig exterior webbing
- Internal front pouches - up to 6 mags
- H-harness
- Water storage and map pocket
- Plenty of MOLLE for additional attachments
5.11 Tactec Rig will get you You get the same features as Condor, but a better construction quality. The stitching is noticeably better, as well as the material.
The front pouches are covered - an unusual design choice for these rigs.
Comfort
The 5.11 Tactec comes with an adjustable H-harness. The fit is comfortable. This build is the best you can get for weight distribution and comfort.
The material on this one (Cordura 500) is light, not stiff at all. It fits your form while you're moving.
All in all, a very comfortable rig.
Bottom Line
5.11 Tactec is in a different price class than Condors.
I have no doubt that this rig is also made in China. But the quality is noticeably better.
So, If you want a slightly better rig for your money, this one's a good pick. Less risk of bad batch coming through from China as well.
PROS:
- 511 quality stamp
- Comfortable H-Harness
- Loads of space for MOLLE
- Internal pouches included
- Great material and fit
- No QC issues
CONS:
- More expensive than Condor
7. BDS Tactical MVO
If you want to step up your chest rig game, take a look at BDS tactical. They're professional rigs that are 100% made in the USA.
BDS Tactical MVO (Mobile Vehicle Operator) is the rig specifically made for AR magazines.
These rigs are incredibly strong.
I'm talking "take it out on deployment" kind of strong. These rigs have everything that you could possibly want from it.
Want to know the best part?
They retail for around $100 at the time of writing this article. This price is incredible for a professional, U.S. made and tested chest rig.
Check the video below for a full review. I highly recommend these if you can make the room for these in your budget.
8. BDS Tactical Modular V-Ops
Same as the other BDS tactical rig above, except this one's made for AK-47 mags. Same company, same quality, made in the U.S.
9. Haley D3CR-H Chest Rig
I saved the best for the last.
Haley makes the best rigs on the market. That company is a legend.
The D3CR-H has got pretty much everything that you could ask for:
- 4 M4 mags
- 2 pistol mags
- 2 GP pouches
- 1 "Stuff It" pouch (for your IFAK).
They cost about the double of a BDS... and about as much asfive Condors.
Haley is serious stuff. This is equipment used by soldiers on deployment.
But is it right for you?
Do you need the best chest rig on the market? Only you can answer that question. But if this is your first rig, you probably shouldn't start with Haley. It's an overkill for a beginner.
But if you want to have one of the absolute best tactical chest rigs out there... and don't mind spending $200 on it... Haley is all yours.
Bottom line
It does not get better than Haley... but the BDS above gets pretty close.
How To Choose A Chest Rig: Buyer’s Guide
What Color Chest Rig Should You Get?
Let’s start with a very basic thing –the color your rig. It matters because of visibility. Sticking out from the crowd and blending in with your surroundings.
I like to keep a low profile whenever possible. For that reason, I prefercoyote brownandolive drabas my chest rig colors. I’ve found these two to work in most situations.
By most situations I mean – forest, fields, shooting range. For those places,I don’t recommend going with black, as it sticks out too much. Same with Multicam.
Of course, in the end, everything depends on the environment that you’ll be using the rig in. Use common sense and choose accordingly.
Functionality: MOLLE vs. Pockets
When it comes to functionality, you'll find 2 types of rigs:
- Combination rigs with both MOLLE webbing and pockets/pouches
- Full MOLLE rigs that only have webbing (no pockets/pouches attached)
For your first rig, you’re much better off sticking to a model that has a couple of pockets already present (usually 3 mag pouches in the front).
I don’t recommend a full-MOLLE chest rig for beginners.And here’s why:
- MOLLE rigs are more expensive, as you’ll need to buy your pouches separately
- MOLLE rigs require some experience.You’ll need to know WHAT pouches you’ll need WHY. And that’s an extra headache that you don’t want to have as a beginner.
The only thing that full MOLLE rigs have going for them isfullcustomizability. If you want that and don’t mind paying a little extra for the pouches, go for them. Especially if you already have MOLLE pouches lying around somewhere.
And it’s not like you’re losing out on anything with pocket rigs. In most cases, rigs with pockets will have some MOLLE webbing on straps/back.
This allows you to customize your rig to an extent. You get the pre-made pockets – PLUS the chance to attach additional MOLLE pouches if you want to do so. This makes pocket rigs awin/win.
Especially for beginners.
Harness Type: X-harness vs. H-harness
At the end of the day - they both work. Most rigs fit most people, so I wouldn't worry about this too much.
- X-harness will fit better on small people, but ride a bit more when you run.
- H-harnesshas better weight distribution, but might be too big if you're on the smaller side.
Your Weapon: AK Owners Watch Out
Chest rigs come with weapon-specific pouches. Most will fit 5.56 and handgun magazines.
BUT if you have an AK (7.64 magazines), rigs that are made for 5.56mm magazines will be too small for you. You'll need a specific AK rig.
I've taken this into account - you'll find best chest rigs for AK and AR magazines in the reviews below.
Don’t Worry About:
1. Carrying capacity - Chest rigs are meant to be light. They're not made to carry lots of gear. Carrying capacity should be the last thing on your list.
2. Comfort - Most chest rigs are adjustable. It'll probably fit you fine. Plus, there's no way of knowing how a particular rig will behave in action on your body. So I wouldn't worry about comfort too much.
3. The Perfect Loadout - Start small. 3 mag pockets are all you need to get started. Then add gear according to what you need. Don't overthink this.
Chest Rig Brands (Why Condor is NOT Airsoft Cr*p)
Condor's chest rigs are the most popular on the market. Admittedly - they are an airsoft brand first and foremost. Still, Condor makes some of the best chest rigs available for the money.
Still, you'll see people on forums (usually serious shooters or military personnel) talking down Condor. They say that Condors are notrealtactical chest rigs...
Don't buy any of that.
Condor's rigs have been tried and tested by thousands of people over the years.I've used multiple Condor rigs in the past. And I've had nothing but good experiences with the brand.
Sure - you won't take your Condor rig to Afghanistan. They're not made for that.
But as a starter rig - just to get a feel and see if chest rigs are for you - Condor offers fantastic value. Great quality for the price.
I mean - why would you drop $100 on your first rig if you can get a decent one for $30? Especially when you don't know if chest rigs are for you yet?
It's a no-brainer.
Keep in mind that the people criticizing Condors are spending in the ballpark of $100-$200on their rigs. That's too much for most people out there.
Bottom line?
Condor is not "airsoft cr*p".Condor rigs are perfectly fine, especially when you consider the price.
They get the job done. And that's all you need to get started.
Loading Up Your Chest Rig
The mission should dictate the gear selection.
Are you going to shoot in the range, or bugging out?
When it comes to gear, generallyless is more and not all of your pouches have to be full all the time.
Really think about what you need - and pack only the essentials.
This is especially true for prepping and bugging out. Extra weight adds up fast on your chest rig, big time.
Advanced Chest Rigs
Curious about the chest rigs that big boys use? What the absolute best chest rigs out there are?
Check out the video below to find out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Chest Rigs Worth It? Why Have A Chest Rig?
Chest rigs are absolutely worth it, there are no real downsides to them as long as you don’t load them up too much, and keep them light. They’re a great addition to your backpack or battle belt for carrying lighter gear and keeping it accessible at all times. A good chest rig will keep you light on your feet, give you flexibility with your loadout, and take some of the weight off your hips during a ruck.
Chest Rig Vs Plate Carrier - Which One Should You Get?
Chest rigs and plate carriers serve two different purposes. Plate carriers are designed to hold body armor plates that will protect your vital organs, and are better suited for direct action. The main downside of a plate carrier is obvious - its weight - you won’t be as mobile as you would be with a chest rig.
Chest rigs are lightweight and designed to hold magazines, first aid kits, and other tactical gear. Because chest rigs are lighter, you’ll be able to move over longer distances, and disengage easier if you need to. But they don’t protect your vital organs.
To summarize:Unless you’re preparing for direct action, you should probably go for a chest rig over a plate carrier.
What Should I Put On My Chest Rig?
Most people use their chest rigs for storing magazines, so your typical chest rig will usually have: 4-6 rifle mags, 2-4 pistol mags, and maybe an IFAK kit. In addition to that, you might think about adding a multi tool, knife, compass, sharpie, flashlight, pencil - depending on your needs. Whatever you do - remember keep your chest rig as light as you can, as all that weight will start adding up over longer distances.
Where / How High Should Your Chest Rig Sit?
Your chest rig should be as low as you’re comfortable with -usually keeping about 1 inch between your chest rig and your belt line works for most people.
If you keep your chest rig any lower than that, it will be in the way of your belt and holster. Additionally, your rig will be wedged under your stomach in a prone position, which is uncomfortable. If you keep your chest rig too high, you might have a hard time reaching your mags.
Of course, all of this depends on the type of chest rig that you’re using, and on your loadout. You’ll have much more flexibility with MOLLE rigs, as they allow you to regulate the height of your mag pouches etc.
Does The Military Use Chest Rigs?
It depends - chest rigs were widely used in Vietnam and other conflicts, but they were loaded heavier and looked different from modern rigs. Modern rigs - like Haley Strategic, etc. - are used depending on the situation in the military. There is no universal adaptation, and in direct conflict plate carriers are the preferred choice.
How Many Mags Are On A Chest Rig?
Depending on your chest rig model, you’ll have anywhere between 6 and 8 magazine slots that you can use for rifle and pistol mags. 6 is a good number of mags to carry, and that’s also what most folks stick with. Remember that you can always add extra pistol mags or other gear to your belt as well.
What Material Are Chest Rigs Made Of?
Chest rigs are made of sturdy canvas - usually some type of nylon, like Cordura 500.
The Final Word
Chest rigs are a great choice whether you're:
- Working in military & law enforcement
- Getting into tactical training & shooting
- Prepping
- Hunting
- Doing airsoft
Chest rigs also make great survival vests and you can even use them when camping or hiking.
(When you're loaded up with gear, your chest is the last open area with enough surface to carry anything.)
I hope that this article helped you find the right chest rig for you.
But who are we kidding? You'll probably end up going with Condor anyway.
That's what everyone does.
Condor's got the market cornered down... and for $30 there's really nothing to lose.
If there is anything that anything should be added to this article - please let me know in the comments.
Top Pick
Multicam rig features three BUILT IN stacker/Kangaroo type mag pouches that will hold six M4 mags and six pistol mags.
Also Great
6 open-top mag pouches with a swivel lockster release buckle. Features padded cross-back shoulder straps with webbing and D-ring and has an additional mesh pocket on the back.
Photo credit: DVIDSHUB on Visualhunt / CC BY
