REVIEW: Platatac SMAC Releasable

Today we want to present to you something from the country that is similar to ours in English, but has kangaroos: Australia. Specifically from PLATATAC, whose SMACR (Small Medium Armour Carrier Releasable) is much more than just a small to medium plate carrier with quick release function:

In short, it is one of the most innovative plate carriers we have come across recently. The innovation lies in the many small details that we will delve into later, but first an overview of the armor. At first glance, there are no significant differences from a 6094 by LBT or an MMAC by Eagle. Front and back panels with MOLLE rows, all held together by a cummerbund. The total weight of the whole armor without plates is 1050 g. The quality of the materials used and the stitching is very high. Now onto the details, starting with the front panel:

Front Panel

The closure flap does not have a continuous Velcro surface, which in our opinion makes it a little easier to open. The first innovation is found in the classic kangaroo pouch. This is located behind the closure flap and is not integrated into it - unlike other manufacturers. This makes putting on and taking off with a filled pouch much easier. When you want to open the flap, there is nothing in the way.

Back Panel

Here is the second innovation: a compartment that extends across the entire back panel. Whether for a hydration bladder or entry tools, you do not need to attach extra pockets for them. However, the MOLLE rows still provide enough space for additional pockets. Above this compartment is the rescue handle, secured with Velcro. The inside houses the release mechanism, but more on that later.

Cummerbund

Three magazine-sized compartments are integrated into each side of the cummerbund and equipped with adjustable rubber fastenings. These compartments can be easily removed if not needed. Of course, these compartments can also accommodate radios up to the size of an MBITR. The compartments are only divided with Velcro, so the entire length of the cummerbund can be used as one large compartment. The cummerbund can also be removed, in which case the front and back panels are held together by 4 regular rings (visible on the sides) and a regular strap, making everything a bit airier.

Release Mechanism

This is the best-released mechanism we know so far. Simply pull the loop under the chin forcefully and the SMAC falls off the body. So far, so normal. The back panel is held here with the shoulder straps and the front with the cummerbund. In the image, the entire mounting mechanism can be seen, which is completely metal-free. Only webbing and stiffening plastic rods were used here. The front and back panels are additionally connected by Paracord, which can be removed.

Here is a look at the interior of the system, which is ingeniously crafted. The polymer rings pull the tabs of the two halves of the cummerbund, which are then fixed with the stiffened webbing. Here too, the use of metal was consciously avoided to prevent corrosion in maritime conditions.

CONCLUSION: Small but mighty. The quality of workmanship, as expected from PLATATAC, is very good and significantly surpasses American carriers. This small, lightweight armor offers optimal protection with minimal weight, includes innovative solutions, and is also detachable.

The SMACR is available directly from PLATATAC for $299 (excluding shipping) in Multicam.

The man from New Zealand next to the DEVGRU soldier in the picture is wearing the SMAC.