REVIEW: MSA Paraclete SOHPC

A plate carrier that is particularly popular with British Special Forces is the SOHPC (Special Operations Hard Plate Carrier) from MSA (Paraclete). We at SPARTANAT took a closer look at the version in Smoke Green for you…

The SOHPC is a classic MOLLE plate carrier (PC) made of 1000D Cordura. At first glance, the large flap on the front stands out. With 4 MOLLE strips, it is, for example, one strip higher than that of the 6094. The higher approach makes it easier to open when full magazine pockets are attached. This is also the case with standard AR-15 magazines, unfortunately, we have not yet tested 42-round AUG magazines. In return, one must do without a kangaroo pouch, which means everything must be attached to the outer loops. At the back, the PC also has MOLLE loops and a rescue handle, which is sewn widely and can easily drag a 90kg man without any problems.One drawback - not exclusive to the SOHPC - is that the plates sit too low when adjusting the shoulder straps normally. If you have them high enough in the front, they hang too low in the back and vice versa. Fortunately, with a little tailoring, you can remedy this quite well. What we really like are the fixed "shoulder pads" integrated into the back panel. While they do not have thick padding like other PCs, as long as you do not attach a backpack to the back panel, they are sufficient and they stay nicely in place. A peculiarity of MSA (formerly Paraclete) plate carriers is the attachment of the cummerbund. This is done directly with the MOLLE loops on the back. The disadvantage of less precise adjustment options is compensated for by stretch parts. However, it is anything but easy to use the loops used for the cummerbund for attaching pockets. We prefer other systems for this!Inside, the PC is very plain, with no padding or ventilation channels to be found. It's good to see the shoulder straps starting deeply sewn, providing additional wearing comfort.

CONCLUSION: Overall, the MSA Paraclete SOHPC is a plate carrier that is "wow" in some areas and "ugh" in others (MOLLE cummerbund). It is surprising that despite the deficiencies, it is very comfortable to wear. Therefore, we would advise against a blind purchase, but if you have the chance to try one, you should do it.

You can buy the SOHPC occasionally on ebay UK, with a price of around GBP 300 (approx. EUR 360).