REVIEW: Mayflower UW Gen IV Chestrig

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Today we show you a somewhat older product that beautifully proves: Old does not mean outdated. We are talking about the Mayflower UW Gen IV Chestrig. While Mayflower has now reached Generation VI with the UW (Unconventional Warfare) series and we have already introduced Generation V here, the Gen IV model is still available. Why? We'll explain that to you.

Mayflower Research and Consulting LLC has various Chestrig variants in their range, but it is clear to see that the UW series is the main product and continues to be developed consistently. So why is Generation IV still available? Looking at the current trend of Chestrigs, it actually makes sense: Despite the two radio pockets on the side, the Gen IV is still one of the most compact Chestrigs and can easily compete with Haley and Co. So if you don't need a multi-caliber Chestrig (Gen V / Gen IV) or don't like the mini-Chestrigs from Haley Strategic, Warrior Assault Systems, or other manufacturers and just need a platform for AR15, you should definitely check out the Mayflower Gen IV.

The concept behind the UW Gen IV was to provide a platform that could accommodate the basic equipment of an operator with sewn-in pockets, while being as compact and light as possible. It wasn't until they were really satisfied that they reached Generation IV, which long represented the flagship of Mayflower.

The equipment is exactly symmetrical. All pockets are designed to be equally accessible from both the right and left. The base is a map pocket at the wearer's waist. It is closable with Velcro and accessible from the top. On top of that are the magazine pockets for the primary weapon – in this case for 30-round AR15 magazines – four in number. These are "open-top" and secure the mags with a pull tab attached to bungee cord. It's actually a large compartment, but dividers have been sewn in to create four spaces.

In the middle of the primary weapon pockets, two pistol magazine pockets with flaps are sewn on. These have enough resistance to hold the magazines with the flaps inserted.

On the right and left, there are also flapped universal pockets for general items. You can also accommodate 20-round magazines, as there is enough space for that.

Each side is completed with a radio pocket, primarily intended for PRC-152/MBITR radios. Of course, small devices or two additional AR-15 magazines also fit. You can also accommodate an IFAK or even a pistol holster. To secure radios, two bungee tabs are included, which can be attached with Velcro both inside the pocket and on the back of the Chestrig. On the front of the radio pocket, there is an additional pocket on each side, intended for multitools, additional pistol magazines, or similar large items.

To secure hand or smoke grenades, tourniquets, chemlights, or other equipment, there is a strip of elastic between the radio pocket and the universal pocket on each side. Under the AR-15 magazine pockets, there are also 2 loops intended for antennas.

The H-harness can be attached to the Chestrig with Fastex buckles. The straps are quite narrow and very comfortable to wear. In the shoulder area, there are 2 loops on each side to secure additional equipment. These are elastic and form another loop that protrudes over the strap. There, you can thread antennas or drinking tubes. There is a loop field for patches between the shoulder blades.

Of course, you can also omit the shoulder straps and directly dock the Chestrig to a plate carrier with the "Swift-Clip" system. To secure it, there is a small piece of hook-and-loop tape (covered) on the belly.

The wearing comfort of the Chestrig is also very good when fully loaded. Although we haven't carried it for miles through the jungle, we have already used it in several trainings and couldn't find any negatives.

Compared to other Chestrigs of this class, the magazine pockets are quite snug. Pulling out magazines is not a problem, but putting them back requires some practice.

CONCLUSION: Mayflower products are absolutely timeless – considering that the UW Gen IV Chestrig has been around for 6 years and is still frequently seen in current pictures speaks for itself. We can highly recommend it and find it almost perfect. It may add more bulk to plate carriers than a D3CR – but then you have a complete rig that can be separated from the plate carrier in seconds.

The UW Gen IV Chestrig in Coyote Brown or Multicam is available at the Marines Shop in Prague, starting at €218. There you can also find plate carriers, Swift-Clips, and other Mayflower products.

SPARTANAT is the online magazine for Military News, Tactical Life, Gear & Reviews.
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