REVIEW: Blue Force Gear Ten Speed M4 Chestrig

When less is more: Sometimes a chest rig just needs to be light and compact so you can discreetly carry your gear and still have quick access to the essentials. The Blue Force Gear Ten Speed M4 Chestrig falls exactly into this category, and that's why we're showing it to you.Blue Force Gear has always been known for innovative gear, and the Ten Speed products – ALL information on Ten Speed here – definitely belong to that category. They are elastic magazine pouches that are extremely flat and lightweight due to their design.The Ten Speed M4 Chestrig was designed to hold four magazines. They are mounted in the center of the platform, allowing for ambidextrous access. On the right and left sides, you still have the option to attach additional pouches – if desired. There are 3x3 rows of MOLLE available for this purpose.Behind the magazine pouches are two flaps that allow the wearer to open the body. This provides storage space for flat items across the entire area.The straps fit well into the low-profile concept, as they have no frills. Just flat webbing material that doesn't bulge at all. It is wide enough to comfortably carry the load. In the back, they are connected in the classic H-harness style.You can also attach a patch on the center section - Velcro is provided for this purpose. The straps can be generously adjusted, allowing you to adjust the chest rig even with the thickest snow jacket on.If needed, you can release the straps with four Fastex buckles (except on the front - they are sewn on) and tuck them into the large pocket behind the magazines for transport. There are also two tabs attached to the rig that can be used to attach the chest rig to a plate carrier with Fastex clips.The magazine pouches are designed for AR15 magazines. Due to the tight elastic material, inserting the magazines with one hand is very difficult. Tactical reloading will only work in the outer pockets; it is nearly impossible in the inner ones.We also tested AK magazines (top) and G36 magazines (bottom) for testing. For AK magazines, PMAGs are recommended as they are the smallest and do not have sharp edges like the original ones. The elastic material can easily be damaged by sharp edges. G36 magazines without couplings also fit very well and provide sufficient retention.Of course, other items can also be transported in the pouches. Smoke grenades, flashbangs, medical equipment like tourniquets, and much more can fit in size-wise. Even small pistols have been seen in them before.

Inside the magazine pouches, there is a small piece of loop Velcro on the back. The purpose of this is unclear to us.When it comes to wearing it, there is only positive feedback. The H-harness ensures a good fit no matter how many layers of clothing you're wearing. Since nearly everything that would make this chest rig bulky has been eliminated, it can also be discreetly worn under a loose jacket. We haven't used the rig long enough to comment on any loss of elasticity in the pockets, but we have been using other bags from the Ten Speed series for years and have not observed any significant material fatigue.CONCLUSION: A minimalist chest rig with quick access to four magazines, ideal for concealed carry. In addition, the option to expand it and create a full-fledged chest rig makes it a very good concept. The only downside to the elastic pouches is that you cannot reinsert magazines or it is very difficult to do so with only one hand.

You can get the BFG Ten Speed M4 Chestrig in Coyote Brown, black, olive, or Multicam for €114 at Recon Company.

BLUE FORCE GEAR online: www.blueforcegear.com