Are you looking for the best chest rig? If you answered yes, then you have come to the right place. A great chest rig is an important part of any tactical wardrobe. And it will definitely come in handy when you are out in the field and have all the things you need in order to get through certain applications. Chances are time will not be in your favor and you will need to access a tool that is imperative to the situation quickly and efficiently.
It takes a lot of time to go digging through options looking for the right tool. Thankfully, we’ve been able to find some of the best chest rigs on the market.
Before we go through the review list describing each of them, we’ll talk about what a chest rig is and what it does. We’ll also talk about the perks of getting a good quality chest rig and what you need to look for when the time comes to choose one.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Chest Rig
- OUR TOP PICK: Helikon-Tex Range Line, Training Mini Rig
- Lancer Tactical CA-307T Modular Chest Rig
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Condor Tactical Rapid Assault Chest Rig
Comparison of the Best Chest Rigs
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What is a Chest Rig and What is it Used For?
A chest rig is used to carry additional gear used in tactical applications. You will use these to carry tools like knives, magazines, pistols, water bottles, small medical kits, and radios to name a few. These will be worn on your uniform either outside or concealed (whichever you prefer). They will also be used to allow you quick access to the tools that you need in situations where you won’t have the time to dig through a bag or a belt clip.
Perks of Getting a New Chest Rig
If you are looking to get a chest rig, then you will get some awesome perks that go along with it. Here are some common benefits that you’ll get out of using a chest rig:
Quick and Easy Access
Let’s address the elephant in the room as to which major perk you will get out of using the chest rigs. And that is quick and easy access to any tool you need. Whether it’s in a situation where you may need to grab something in a snap or when things are mostly calm, having something handy inside of your chest rig will always come in handy 9 times out of 10. Not bad compared to rummaging through a bag.
An Accessory That Doesn’t Fall Apart
If you are looking for something that will hold all your tools in place and will not fall apart after short term use, then you’ll want a chest rig that will be perfect for any application be it low key or a high-stress situation where anything can change in a blink of an eye in terms of volatility. The last thing you need is ending up losing all of your tools because of an unreliable chest rig or pockets that are low in quality.
Allows For Quick and Nimble Movements
Let’s face it, the last thing you want is to be unable to move quickly because you have too much weight to carry. With these chest rigs, they are light in weight even when you have each pouch loaded with the tools you need for the mission at hand. Regardless, you’ll be able to move quickly and out of danger in the process.
Characteristics of Our Favorite Chest Rig
If you are looking for a chest rig for your own personal use, then it’s important to find one that will be great for all of your personal needs and preferences. But we have a list of characteristics that we consider our favorites regarding these rigs and you should definitely consider keeping your eyes peeled for them. Here’s what they are:
Price
If you are looking for a chest rig and want to keep it within a certain price range, then your best bet is to find one that will be the best that you can afford in terms of quality and performance. The last thing you want to do is buy a chest rig that is cheap and subpar in quality.
High-Quality Materials
Finding quality materials like nylon, neoprene, or similar materials will be important. You want something that will be sturdy not just for the short-term but also for the long-term as well. Pay attention to what each chest rig is made from before making a final decision.
Storage Space
Storage space will obviously be a key feature to consider. How many pockets will you need? What will you be carrying? These are some things to consider when trying to determine how much storage space (or pockets) you may need for a chest rig.
Review of the Best Chest Rigs
The following is a list of the best chest rigs that are currently on the market. As you go through each chest rig on the list, it is important to note any features and characteristics that stand out as interesting to you. Now, let’s take a look at the first chest rig on our list -- our “best overall” choice:
Best Overall:
Helikon-Tex Range Line, Training Mini Rig
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of recent buyers were very happy with the use of this chest rig. These were used by law enforcement officers and even hunters who wanted all of their tools in the right places and accessed whenever they need them. One user said he uses this for deer hunting and was able to store as many rounds and some EDC tools. He said even when loaded, it still felt very lightweight.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This chest rig is probably one of the most rugged, not just in construction but has the potential to look even more beefy with some Molle attachments included. However, this is entirely up to you. But once you add this onto your tactical uniform, you have a go-to place to grab whatever it is you need. Whether it’s a multi-tool or an extra magazine for your rifle, you’ll have it very close by and within reach.
Who Will Use This Most
This would make the perfect chest rig for multiple users across various applications. Whether you are using it while protecting and serving the community or when you have your eyes on that big buck, this chest rig will be great for any kind of gear.
Bottom Line
The Helikon-Tex Range Line Training Mini Rig proves itself as to why it’s the best overall on the list. You’d be quite surprised by how many applications this chest rig can be useful for. It doesn’t have to be used for just tactical purposes. You can take this with you for those long outdoor ventures like hunting or hiking. Either way, you’ll have your most needed tools and accessories very close by.
Runner-up:
Lancer Tactical CA-307T Modular Chest Rig
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the new users had nothing but good things to say about this. They were able to wear this year-round and carried as many tools as they wanted for hunting, tactical applications, and even a long day at the range. Some users were using this at the range as a place to store extra magazines and small cleaning kits. Overall, the storage space was excellent in size and allowed for organized packing and storing of items.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What makes this chest rig stand out is the fact that it can adapt to most environments. Especially when it’s made from breathable fabric that will not only allow you to move freely but not feel overheated if and when you are in certain environments where the temperature can be ridiculously warm.
Who Will Use This Most
This is the perfect chest rig for those who want something that will be fitting for multiple purposes. If you are looking for spacious storage, lightweight maneuverability, and something that will keep you dry and not feeling like you are suffocating in hot temperatures then this will be the best chest rig that you can invest in.
Bottom Line
The Lancer Tactical Modular Chest Rig is the perfect addition to your gear and will come in handy in any weather condition. Whether you are in the hot desert heat or in a cold, dark space indoors, this chest rig will stick with you in any application where the need for your EDC items can be satisfied in seconds. You’ll be really impressed with this bad boy once you give it a try.
Best Chest Rig for the Money:
Condor Tactical Rapid Assault Chest Rig
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of new users were looking for a chest rig that was not only affordable for their budgets but also provided a snug fit for their size. This rig fits the bill in so many ways. Aside from those two “deal makers”, they were very satisfied with its ability to store a good number of AR-15 magazines and some other odds and ends as well. One user said that he uses this for range shooting in both a casual and competitive setting. He said that it made carrying as many magazines as possible a lot easier than his tactical vest (which allowed him to carry a limited amount). Plus, changing the mags were much quicker.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is the chest rig that is made for those who may be anywhere on the small to average size of the scale. It comes with adjustable straps that make it easy to fit most users regardless of their size. And on top of that, it was very sturdy and lightweight even when fully loaded. It’s also great for multiple purposes as well.
Who Will Use This Most
This would be a great starter chest rig for anyone who has never used one. Not only is it great in quality, but also very affordable for any “newbie” to try without having to spend an arm and a leg. If you are serious about carrying a good number of items on hand no matter what the application, you may want to give this chest rig some extra consideration.
Bottom Line
Superior quality? Check. Affordability? Check. Plenty of storage for EDC tools? Double-check. This is exactly what you are going to get out of a chest rig that will never let you down and won’t suck the life out of your bank account. If you are new to using chest rigs or just need something that will be nice and snug for your size, the Condor Rapid Assault chest will not disappoint.
Best Condor Chest Rig:
Condor Recon Chest Rig
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Many users were very happy with the size adjustments. As expected, it was a perfect fit for most users based on their preferred adjustments. This was also a hit with most of the AR-15 crowd since they were using this for target shooting, hunting, and tactical applications. One user said that it was great for not only his EDC tools but also perfect for a few extra AR-15 magazines that he had handy.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This rig is another from the Condor brand. Condor has long been known as one of the best names when it comes to tactical gear. This chest rig is no exception to the rule. It’s tough, allows for ample storage space, and will stand out as the best option for anyone looking for a multi-purpose chest rig that is long-lasting and can handle your gear.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are looking for something to wear, quality will definitely be at the forefront, then you will not be disappointed in this chest rig. This will be well-built and will give you lots of storage to work with. No matter how many tools you have, you can take them with you with a chest rig like this.
Bottom Line
The Condor Recon Chest Rig is one of the best from one of the best names on the market. It’s excellent in quality and will definitely stand out as your kind of rig that will be useful in any survival or outdoor application you can think of. If you use an AR-15 or an AK-47 and have any magazines to store (along with other stuff), this chest rig is perfect for you.
Best AK Chest Rig:
RAPDOM Tactical Molle Chest Rig
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This rig was perfect for a handful of AK-47 shooters that were not only using this for the purpose of handling AK-47 magazines but it was perfect for those who take part in tactical applications on a regular basis. They said that the pockets had plenty of space and there was no shortage of room even when it was already loaded with tools.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This chest rig is made with some high-quality nylon that is almost impossible to destroy. And that’s a good thing if you need a chest rig that can go the distance when it comes to longevity. On top of that, it has Molle webbing that will be useful for when you need to attach any extra tools that use Molle attachments.
Who Will Use This Most
If you hunt or work in law enforcement, we would not be surprised if this ends up being the chest rig you choose. You’ll wear this and engage in any application with the confidence in knowing that you have everything at your disposal and will have something accessed within your reach in a moment’s notice whenever you need it.
Bottom Line
The RAPDOM Tactical Molle Chest Bag will definitely give any other rig a run for its money in so many ways. With a good amount of storage space at your disposal and strong structural integrity, this chest rig will be really hard to beat. You’ll be more prepared than ever when you put this to good use.
Best Shotgun Chest Rig:
Hi-Tech Custom's KSG Shotgun Rapid Response Mini-Rig Vest
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This chest rig was superb for most users. They were using this to store 12 gauge shotgun shells and were able to use this for most purposes like hunting, target shooting, and tactical purposes. No matter what the purpose was, most users agreed that it allowed for excellent carrying of shotgun shells and various tools. Of course, they were also impressed with the ability to load their shotguns quickly while accessing each shell.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holds up to well over three dozen shotgun shells. And this will be a lot better than relying on your pockets, a sling that can hold shells or anything else on the market. So, if you are looking for something that will allow you to carry as many shotgun shells that you ever thought possible, then you’ll probably give this chest rig a whirl.
Who Will Use This Most
If you have a shotgun and have a good reason or two to use it, then this chest rig will obviously be the best possible choice for you. Plus, you can say goodbye to all of those shotgun shell holders that don’t hold as many shells as you want. Why carry six when you can carry 42? Not only that, this will be great for all-day use if and when you are out in the field or on a dangerous, but life-saving situation.
Bottom Line
This chest rig proves that there is no such thing as carrying too many shotgun shells. You’d be crazy to pass up the opportunity to give this a closer look. Especially when you have a whole lot of shotgun shells that you’re dying to just fire off all day.
Best Mayflower Chest Rig:
Mayflower UW Chest Rig Gen IV
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
As expected, a lot of new users were quite happy with the chest rig. This was a choice for so many law enforcement officers, military personnel, and civilians who use it for hunting and range shooting. Overall, they loved the chest rig’s quality and ability to handle the tools and accessories that were needed most for their all-important applications. One user, a police officer, said that he uses this chest rig regularly for any tactical situations and was able to stay calm under pressure while accessing whatever tools he needed.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is a gun owner’s dream. A chest rig designed to handle any magazines ranging from handguns to rifles. While it has various pockets to handle all the shots you can dispose of, it has the adjustments to ensure a good fit for any size.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be best used by various users that are ranging from law enforcement officials to those who have their eyes on the prize at the shooting range. Whether you use a pistol or an AR-15, there is no such thing as having too much storage space for any of your magazines (and other tools). If you want a chest rig that will definitely give you the leg up in any given situation, this could be yours to own.
Bottom Line
The Mayflower UW Chest Rig Gen IV will most likely be your go-to choice if you need something where using a firearm may be warranted. You could be in a dangerous tactical situation involving other human lives or in the quiet woods bearing down on your target of choice. No matter what, you’ll be set and ready to go with the right kind of tools.
Cautious Considerations to Keep In Mind
It’s good to be in the know in terms of what you need to carefully consider prior to purchasing a chest rig. Here are some things that you need to know:
Do Not Confuse This For a Plate Carrier
While these chest rigs slightly resemble plate carriers, they should not be mistaken for such. In other words, do not place any armored plates in the pockets of a chest rig. You may, however, wear either a kevlar vest or a plate carrier with a chest rig if you believe it’s necessary.
Find a Rig That Fits
An ill-fitted chest rig may spell trouble for you in so many ways. It may limit your mobility or it can drag you down. In some applications, that’s a recipe for disaster. Be sure to find a chest rig that you know will be the right size for you. Adjustable straps may be fine, but pay close attention to the measurements that they can accept.
Conclusion
Chest rigs might be one of the best additions to your tactical attire up to this point. It’s always good to have excellent protection. But it’s also good to have extra preparedness as well. And that’s exactly what you are going to get out of a great chest rig that is in excellent quality and has the best storage space that will fit your tools and accessories.
