REVIEW: Tasmanian Tiger Plate Carrier MK II

Even for German plate carriers, the problem arises of how to get two (SK4) plates as close to the body as possible and give the wearer the ability to set up their gear with the Plate Carrier (PC). Tasmanian Tiger (TT) now offers a minimal solution, the Plate Carrier MK II, which we at SPARTANAT have taken a look at for you. (All images clickable for enlargement).

One might think there's not much you can do when keeping things minimal. However, the German TT Plate Carrier MK II is a great example of how a clever design goes beyond simply attaching protection plates in a slick manner to the body. In terms of dimensions, the TT Plate Carrier MK II is reminiscent of a Jumpable Plate Carrier by Crye. The idea at Tasmanian Tiger is to use as little material as possible while still providing storage space for the complete combat equipment. Accordingly, both plate pockets are fully equipped with MOLLE from top to bottom. Each user can customize their PC MK II with the pouches they need. TT has also avoided integrating a Kangaroo Pouch into the closure flap for the carrier, meaning each magazine pouch attaches to the front MOLLE. Instead, there is a large handle on the underside (left) to help pull up the closure flap. On the backside (right), you can see a top-mounted grab handle ready for emergencies. In both images, you can see a cummerbund made entirely of MOLLE fabric. It resembles Crye's AirLite System, but does not have integrated carbon for stiffening. Still, it's a very breathable solution that allows for complete customization with pouches when needed.

Airflow is also a priority on the inside: the front and back pockets are lined with 3D mesh to allow air to flow towards the body.

Raising the cover on the back reveals the mounting point for the cummerbund. It is attached using a tab. The shoulder straps come from the top and have their length adjustment here at kidney level. The buckles do not press, as the SK4 plate lies between them and the wearer. Below the PC, you can see a second "cummerbund" that can be used if you don't want to attach anything to the MOLLE belt. Simply a strap with Velcro at the front and plastic for mounting at the back. Nice to have.

Lifting the front flap reveals the Velcro areas in which the cummerbund is secured when closed.

The shoulder pads are extremely well made and are also crucial parts of the PC, as they support the weight of the armor on the shoulders: a non-slip black surface at the bottom, four loops at the top that enclose the shoulder strap. The shoulder pad is attached with Velcro. On the top, there are four loops where, for example, two chemlights can be attached. It can also be used as a cable tunnel for the radio.

Looking into the interior: here, too, you can see very detailed craftsmanship. The plate is securely fastened with a lining and Velcro. In the second compartment, the plate could be "backed up" with soft inlays.

CONCLUSION: Tasmanian Tiger delivers a solid piece of gear with its Plate Carrier MK II, which is minimalist in design but not lacking in features. Made of 700D Cordura, the SK4 carrier also has the ability to accommodate Small SAPIs. As an SK4 plate carrier, the Plate Carrier MK II is a worthy German counterpart to Crye's JPC.

The Tasmanian Tiger Plate Carrier MKII is available at TACWRK in Khaki, Olive, and Black for 139 euros (excluding shipping), in Multicam directly from Tasmanian Tiger for 150 euros (excluding shipping) or at Sniper AS for 139.90 euros (excluding shipping).