Best 13 Ammo Vests for Concealed Carry

Choosing the right ammo vest is crucial for both recreational shooters and competitive marksmen. This comprehensive guide evaluates top vests on the market, comparing features like bullet resistance, comfort levels, and durability to help you select the perfect protective gear for your shooting needs.

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Reviews

Cabela’s Targetmaster II Shooting Vest

This shooting vest combines practical features like dual front pockets and a spacious rear pouch for both loaded and empty shells. The polyester suede shooting patch soaks up recoil, while padded shoulder pockets keep your shooting pad secure. Built for lasting use with heavy-duty construction and a ventilated mesh back, it’s designed to handle whatever shooting session throws at you.

Propper F5427 Tactical Vest

The Propper F5427 Tactical Vest combines durable Teflon fabric protection with MOLLE-compatible design elements like loop fields for patches. It features practical storage solutions such as divided left pocket for magazines and a convenient chest pen holder, making it a versatile option for both professional use and outdoor activities.

Voodoo MSP-06 Assault Vest

This versatile assault vest combines military-grade durability with tactical functionality. With multiple magazine pouches, first aid compartments, and universal attachment points, it’s designed to carry everything from pistols to body armor. Users appreciate its heavy-duty construction and adjustable web straps, though some note the sizing runs small – a medium often fits best.

Rothco Tactical Cross Draw Vest

This tactical vest combines durable construction with thoughtful design. The right side features multiple ammo pouches and a large shell carrier, while the left side houses a versatile handgun holster and magazine pouches. With adjustable shoulder straps and a secure zip-front closure, it offers both comfort and flexibility for various carrying needs.

Loaded Gear Tactical Vest

This well-designed vest combines comfort with functionality, featuring a large mesh pocket for hydration packs and adjustable sizing from small to XXL. The four magazine pouches accommodate standard AR-15 and AK magazines, while the quick-release design makes reloading quick and simple. The detachable drop leg holster and emergency drag handle add practical versatility for different training scenarios.

Outdoor Quick Dismantling Tactical Vest

The MANIKO Tactical Vest transforms how you approach outdoor adventures, combining superior comfort with tactical functionality. Its innovative quick-release system lets you adjust the vest in seconds, whether you’re scaling mountains or navigating through dense forests. The ventilated design keeps you cool during intense activities, while the 360° protective material keeps you safe in any situation.

AR500 Armor Testudo Gen 2 Ballistic Plate Carrier

From the folks at AR500 Armor comes the Testudo Gen 2 plate carrier - a durable option that earned solid praise for its build quality and comfort. With plenty of Molle webbing for customization and well-placed padding, it struck many reviewers as a reliable choice for both new and experienced users. While a few noted minor stitching issues, most came away impressed with its heavy-duty construction and generous accessory options.

Leapers UTG 547 Law Enforcement Tactical Vest

This versatile tactical vest from Leapers can carry a ton of gear with its modular design and MOLLE loops. The double-mag pouches are handy for quick access, though some users found them a bit cumbersome. Made from synthetic and leather material, it’s sturdy enough for regular training sessions or home defense needs.

5.11 Tactical VTAC LBE Molle Vest

This robust tactical vest combines stiffened mesh construction with generous MOLLE webbing for modular gear attachment. The adjustable sizing system ensures a customized fit, while the padded design distributes weight evenly. Users appreciate its durability and reliability, though some mention minor issues like occasional zipper problems and limited radio pocket life.

YAKEDA Tactical Vest

The adjustable design ensures a custom fit, with padded shoulder straps and flexible waist belt. The 600D Polyester construction combines durability with mesh paneling for ventilation during intense activities. The modular pouch system lets you customize storage, featuring multiple pockets and hooks for gear organization.

Barska BI13196 Loaded Gear VX-200 Plus Size Tactical Vest

This plus-size tactical vest checks all the right boxes with its adjustable design that fits from 2XL to 4XL, sturdy MOLLE straps, and ample storage options including four rifle mag pouches and two spacious internal pockets. The reinforced rescue handle and padded shoulder design show they’ve thought through every practical detail, making it a solid choice despite some mixed reviews about the pouch quality.

Rothco Military Plate Carrier Vest

Made from heavy-duty polyester or Cordura nylon, these plate carrier vests combine military-grade protection with impressive customization options. With four internal sleeve pockets for armor plates and side-mounted armor carriers, they can handle everything from soft plates to heavy-duty steel armor. The MOLLE webbing system lets you attach any compatible gear, from pouches and holsters to tactical lights and communication equipment. While some users report minor quality issues with stitching, the durable construction and comfortable padded design make it a solid value for the price.

Loaded Gear Vx-100 Tactical Vest

Crafted from durable polyethylene with a heavy-duty construction, the tactical vest features 11 detachable pieces that can be reconfigured with ease using the web system and durable buckles. The quick-release magazine pouches and adjustable leg platform offer both utility and comfort, while the fully adjustable design ensures a secure fit for most adult body types. The vest’s storage options are practical and well-organized, from the hydration pack-compatible pocket to the multiple utility pouches, making it a versatile choice for law enforcement and tactical operations.

Buyer’s Guide

Ammovests protect body armor from ammunition, extending the useful life of both police and military-grade armor. These protective carriers distribute weight evenly and prevent damage to underlying armor panels from expended cartridges. Understanding key aspects of ammovest design, materials, and compatibility will help you select the right equipment for your needs.

Protection and Design

Ammovests combine durable outer shells with internal padding systems. Outer materials typically include ballistic-grade cotton or Kevlar, while inner layers protect armor panels from bullet impact. Common padding types include foam, gel, and hybrid systems combining multiple materials for optimal protection and comfort.

Size and Fit

Proper fit is crucial for ammovest effectiveness. Vests should conform closely to body contours without restricting movement. Most designs offer adjustable straps and attachment points for customizable fit. Standard sizes range from small to large, with extra-large options available for specific body types. Custom sizing ensures adequate protection while preventing unnecessary weight distribution.

Compatibility and Integration

Ammovests work with various body armor systems, but compatibility requirements vary. Some designs attach directly to armor panels using specialized clips or clips, while others use standard MOLLE webbing for universal mounting. Consider the weight and configuration of your existing armor when selecting an ammovest. The total system should maintain balanced weight distribution and proper armor positioning.

Maintenance and Durability

Proper care extends the lifespan of ammovests and underlying armor. These protective carriers require regular cleaning to remove dirt, sweat, and debris that can damage materials and compromise protection. Most manufacturers recommend washing with mild detergents and air-drying away from direct heat sources. Regular inspection for signs of wear, tear, or damage ensures continued effectiveness and safety.

FAQ

What is an ammo vest?

An ammo vest, also known as a ballistic vest or body armor, is a protective garment designed to stop or mitigate the effects of firearm projectiles. It consists of multiple layers, with the core protection made from materials like Dyneema, Para-aramid, or ceramic plates.

The vest’s structure includes flexible outer shells and padded interior panels to distribute weight evenly and enhance comfort during wear. Many designs incorporate adjustable straps and modular plate pockets for customization.

What types of ammo vests are available?

Common types include soft body armor vests (Level I & II), which provide protection against handgun rounds, and hard body armor vests (Level III & IV), which can stop rifle fire. Specialized vests are available for law enforcement, military, and civilian use, each tailored to specific threat levels and environments.

Additional variants include ballistic-coachaing vests for law enforcement, child-specific vests, and minimalist options for concealed carry applications.

How do you wear an ammo vest?

Most vests feature a Y-shaped design that extends around the back and shoulders, with adjustable straps allowing for proper fit. The wearer should ensure the vest is not too loose, as this can compromise protection, but also not too tight, to prevent restricted movement.

Proper wear requires strapping the vest to the body, often with additional chest and hip belt adjustments for stability. The goal is to maintain a slight amount of mobility without exposing the threat protection materials.

What should you consider when selecting an ammo vest?

Key factors include threat level (NIJ rating), weight, comfort features, and compatibility with other gear. The vest’s weight distribution affects mobility, while padding and material choice impact comfort during extended wear.

Additional considerations include attachment points for additional equipment, visibility options, and whether the vest meets specific occupational or legal requirements.

How do you maintain and care for an ammo vest?

Cleaning requirements vary by manufacturer, but most recommend using mild detergents and cool water. Some vests require professional cleaning due to specialized materials or attachment systems.

Inspection should include checking seams for wear, evaluating padding integrity, and verifying strap functionality. The NIJ rating sticker should remain legible and securely mounted to the vest.

What’s the shelf life of an ammo vest?

The effective lifespan of a ballistic vest depends on storage conditions and use, with most manufacturers recommending a maximum service life of 5-7 years from initial wear. Factors affecting longevity include exposure to moisture, extreme temperatures, and chemical contact.

Regular inspection and adherence to manufacturer guidelines are crucial for maintaining the vest’s protective properties. Exposed NIJ plates should be checked every 6 months for proper retention and mounting.

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