REVIEW: Zentauron Nonmodular Split Front Chest Rig

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The age-old question: Modular through MOLLE or rather fixed sewn pockets? Because in reality, you equip the rig once with pockets of your choice - and then rarely change anything, and if so, only minor details. Zentauron has clearly decided in favor of everything being fixed with their new Chest Rig. Really everything?

Let's say, you can't do without a certain degree of modularity where it makes sense. That's why Zentauron, in cooperation with soldiers - scouts and FAC's (forward air controllers) of the Bundeswehr - developed this Chest Rig. It is recognizable that the user prefers partial modularity with a sensible pocket layout. Let's go into detail together: In the front view, most of the features are already visible. Front zipper for easier on and off, four magazine pockets with some MOLLE, and finally two side pockets. All very functional. The rig is made of 500D Cordura, which makes it nice and light overall.In the rear view, there is little unknown for a chest rig. The Shoulder Harness, also available separately, offers a few MOLLE rows for mounting a hydration bladder. The back area is very flat and plain so that there are no unnecessary pressure points when using a backpack. At the same time, the wide padding on the shoulders distributes the load of a fully loaded rig ideally.

The front zipper closes from top to bottom, so that nothing unintentionally opens when crawling. The whole thing is also secured with a G-Hook. It is open to see here.

The magazine pockets can hold up to three magazines, or a water bottle, or even a smoke grenade and other grenades. The width of the magazine pockets can be adjusted using an elastic cord. That's a lot of space for ammunition. So if you don't have to decide on G36 magazines with couplers (officially), you have 12 M4 magazines with you. The rig also takes AK magazines gladly.

The flaps can be adjusted or even completely removed thanks to the Velcro. This ensures that the contents are always well protected when the flaps are mounted. Without them, quick access to ammunition is guaranteed. The decision lies entirely with the wearer.

Behind the magazine pockets, there are slot compartments for knives, chemlights, or additional magazines. Particularly practical is the presence of Velcro surfaces on the inside, so that inserts from Zentauron, for example, can be used.

The side pockets provide enough space for canteens, emergency rations, more ammunition, and whatever else you might need in the field. Just like the magazine pockets, the flaps can also be removed or adjusted in height. On both sides of the bag, there are 3x2 MOLLE rows for more stuff.

Behind the side pockets, there is a Velcroed slot compartment, similar to the magazine pockets, but larger. Here, the user can store everything from radios to first aid kits to pistols.

An ideal fit here is a signal pistol with holster insert. With that, one can create beautiful patterns in the sky. The front clip is from ITW and can be equipped with a quick release loop/cord if desired.

Beneath the magazine pockets is a horizontal MOLLE row. Tourniquets or pistol magazine pouches can be attached here. Creative minds will surely come up with further uses for these loops.

The interior is lined with super fluffy Velcro, so nothing rubs. Or for covertly wearing morale patches, we are still undecided.

Behind the attached pockets is a Velcroed slot compartment running the entire length. You can never have enough storage space. This compartment is particularly useful for maps and other paperwork.

CONCLUSION: When collaborating with users, very functional, well-thought-out systems usually emerge. Exactly as in this case. The Split Front Chest Rig from Zentauron offers plenty of space for combat equipment and accessories of all kinds, with great comfort. Due to being Handmade in Germany, it is unfortunately not very cheap, but you get a product of excellent quality and premium material that is worth the money.

Available directly from Zentauron for €319 (excluding shipping) in Black, Coyote, Olive, 5FT, Multicam, and Pencott Greenzone.

ZENTAURON on the internet: www.zentauron.de