Same text: REVIEW: Crye Precision CAGE Plate Carrier

Looks inconspicuous. But that's probably the point. The CAGE Plate Carrier (CPC) by Crye Precision is a classic example of how inner values matter. In Germany, Crye is now available at TACWRK. We took a look at the CPC for you and will tell you if this wonder carrier lives up to its reputation.

CPC on the man: The design looks very conventional, but appearances can be deceiving. Yes, there is a pocket to be ordered separately on the front and back (available in four sizes) to hold SAPI plates (we have the size M here filled not only with SAPIs, but also test SK4 plates from BEST PROTECTION. They fit, but no soft armor will fit behind them; with size L pocket, that should work). Yes, that's a cummerbund connecting them. No, not everything you see explains why something is the way it is.

Sometimes only a small striptease brings the truth to light (with your consent, we kept the t-shirt on): Under the cummerbund hides another part that is looped through from the back into the front plate pocket (left). On top of that is a pocket that holds an MBITR radio or two magazines (top right). The CPC also has a quick release system: pull one of the loops on the shoulders (bottom right) and the striptease is complete.

Of course, it's not just about the external features. It also depends on what's inside. In civilian life, zippers (left) are often meant for undressing, here they are a way to add something. Crye offers different backpack modules that can be zipped onto the back of the CPC. This allows for quick adaptation to different tactical situations. Much more practical than attaching and detaching MOLLE loops and pockets. There is an admin pocket on the top front (top right), which also has loops inside and at the bottom an integrated kangaroo pouch in the flap, which holds three M4 magazines. Very smooth operation, perfect. The retention loops above are simply pulled aside when you need the magazine. For those who need more magazines, they can attach MOLLE attachments.

That's the secret inside the CPC: an L-shaped part, stiffened inside with plastic. Two inverted L's put together form the structure of the armor. The front closes with the plate pocket.

Shock cord runs between the two side parts (left), which is used to adjust the upper body. At the bottom, the viewer sees a small pocket where the excess cord is stored. The side parts are covered with a soft loop material (top right) that probably comes from the automotive or furniture industry.

On top of that are pads (top right) that further adjust the CPC to the body. But more importantly, they create air channels that provide cooling for the wearer when it gets hot. And - hey! - they even have the right logos on them. The guys at Crye have thought of everything.

CONCLUSION: The CPC from Crye Precision is an impressive piece of gear. What may seem very inconspicuous at first, proves to be a king of portability. Padded, with air on the person, a good drop system, many attachment options. Crye Precision has earned its good name rightfully. The only drawback is a relatively high price for a very perfect system. And maybe the stiff construction requires a lot of storage space when not being worn (a 6094 can simply be folded up). But that's complaining on a high level. By the way: Have you ever seen a CPC in Flecktarn?

The CAGE Plate Carrier from Crye Precision costs 561 dollars in the basic system. It is available in Multicam, Coyote, and Ranger Green. You also need the CPC Plate Bags, which come at an additional cost of 194.80. There are various Zip-On Panels available, such as the Pouch (147 dollars), the Pack (81 dollars), or simply a MOLLE (66 dollars). Crye will soon be available on the TACWRK website. Special orders and inquiries are always possible via email at [email protected]. For recommendations, customizations, and inquiries regarding Crye Precision, TACWRK is available by phone at 030/536 042 46 or by email at [email protected]. You can find the full range of Crye products on the manufacturer's website. Or download the current 2013 PDF catalog.