REVIEW: Templars Gear Crusader Plate Carrier (Gen I)

Next to the incredibly ingenious Templars Gear Light Plate Carrier (HERE), there is another plate carrier from the Polish forge: The Crusader Plate Carrier. Actually, there are two, as the Crusader is now available in two different versions. The version we are presenting to you today is the first generation of the Crusader and is still available. Fans of the Eagle CIRAS will be thrilled when they take a closer look at the Crusader.

Why Eagle? Because in this variation, the Crusader has a quick release system like the old CIRAS plate carriers, but more on that later. Instead of regular MOLLE loops, as expected from Templars Gear, Laser cut MOLLE is used.

The Crusader is made of 500D Cordura and is delivered as a complete set, unlike the Light Plate Carrier. Included are a MOLLE front flap, a skeletonized cummerbund, and detachable shoulder pads. The front flap can be exchanged for other modules from Templars Gear, but the cummerbund must be taken as is due to the release system.

On the front, there is a small patch field located directly under the release mechanism and between the Fastex closures for the detachable panel. Here you can also see the closure for the cummerbund well, which can be easily removed with laminated tabs. Another feature is the Velcro loops attached to the sides of the front part and the shoulder straps, which can accommodate cable routing and hydration tubes.

The cummerbund is skeletonized and at the end equipped with an elastic part to better accommodate movements.

The charming back piece has an integrated carry handle and is covered all over with slots for modular accessories. On the right and left, there are also zippers under a cover strip, allowing the attachment of back panels and packs. Templars Gear does not have its own, but we have tested Direct Action, and it fits – unfortunately, we couldn't test others.

In the middle of the back is the size adjustment of the plate carrier and at the same time, the mounting for the quick release is located. The Crusader plate carriers come in medium and large, and – tested by us in a medium – can accommodate medium and large SAPIs. All other size adjustments are handled by the cummerbund and shoulder straps.

The release system is simple: pull at the front D-ring, tear out the cable, and then drop the plate carrier into two parts, with the cummerbund remaining attached to the front plate pocket.

There it is, waiting to be assembled. Here is another focus on the interior – well ventilated and padded.

The assembly is expectedly time-consuming. Thread the cable through the shoulder pads, then insert the straps along with the cable into the rear plate pocket, and then attach the straps with the cable to the provided loop. Repeat the same process for the cummerbund fins, and finally, do a visual check.

That's how it should look. Close it up, and the Crusader is ready for action.

During "operations" or training, the plate carrier performs well. You have to like the skeletonized cummerbund; subjectively, we are more fans of the Light Plate Carrier Elastic Cummerbund, but with this one, you can also build side protection with plate pockets, which the Light carrier cannot. Otherwise, it is very comfortable and offers everything you would expect from a plate carrier. We find it especially good that there is an additional option to attach a back panel, which is much quicker than the tedious threading.

CONCLUSION: The Crusader Plate Carrier from Templars Gear is a successful and modern interpretation of the Eagle CIRAS. Especially maritime units will know how important it is to get rid of the heavy plate carrier as quickly as possible – this can only be achieved with this system and no other. If the whole system is too fiddly for you, you can opt for the Crusader ROC, which is also detachable quickly but not super fast, with ROC buckles on the shoulders and front of the cummerbund.

The plate carrier is available in Coyote Brown, Black, Multicam, ATACS FG, Flecktarn (3/5), and Ranger Green from Best Protection or Recon Company or S4 Supplies for 249 euros.

TEMPLARS GEAR online: http://templarsgear.pl