The NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Digital Camouflage Made a Bold First Impression
The NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Digital Camouflage arrived, and immediately, I knew this wasn’t your average piece of tactical gear. This wasn’t just a backpack; it was a statement, a promise of protection and preparedness wrapped in a digital camouflage package.
As someone who has spent over a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear world, I was looking for a solution that offered both practical storage and a degree of personal safety without sacrificing mobility. My primary concern was having a readily available, discreet form of protection while navigating potentially volatile environments during wilderness search and rescue operations.
Unboxing the NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Digital Camouflage, I was immediately struck by the robust feel of the backpack and the rigid, substantial presence of the ballistic plate. The digital camouflage pattern was well-executed, and the stitching appeared solid, giving an initial impression of durability. The weight, while noticeable with the plate inserted, felt manageable, suggesting a good balance between protection and portability.
I had been considering the Condor Outdoor 3-Day Assault Pack and the 5.11 Tactical Rush 12, but both seemed to prioritize storage over integrated protection. The NcStar option, with its dedicated ballistic plate and ample storage, seemed to offer the best compromise for my specific needs. I was both excited and cautiously optimistic. Would the NcStar Assault Backplate deliver on its promise of reliable protection and practical utility, or would it prove to be another piece of gear that falls short under real-world pressure?
Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Digital Camouflage to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test with the NcStar Assault Backplate involved a weekend at a local shooting range, followed by a moderate hike in a nearby state park. I wanted to get a feel for the backpack’s comfort and mobility while also assessing how the ballistic plate affected overall movement. The weather was typical for early spring – intermittent rain and cool temperatures.
At the range, the backpack served as a convenient platform for organizing magazines, ammunition, and other essential gear. The various compartments kept everything readily accessible, and the MOLLE webbing allowed me to attach additional pouches for specialized equipment. Hiking with the pack, I noticed the weight distribution was well-balanced, and the shoulder straps provided adequate padding. The rain, however, quickly highlighted a potential issue: the backpack material, while seemingly durable, wasn’t particularly water-resistant, and I needed to deploy a rain cover to protect my gear.
There were no major issues on the first use, but it was apparent that the pack needed some improvements such as a more water-resistant shell material.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple range trips, a longer overnight camping trip, and even a simulated emergency response exercise, the NcStar Assault Backplate has proven to be a dependable, albeit not flawless, piece of kit. While the stitching remains intact and the zippers still function smoothly, the digital camouflage fabric is showing signs of wear in high-friction areas, suggesting it might not hold up to years of hard use.
The ballistic plate, however, remains in pristine condition, thanks to its durable polyurea coating. Cleaning the backpack is relatively straightforward, requiring only a damp cloth and mild soap. Compared to my previous experiences with similar tactical backpacks, the NcStar offering provides a comparable level of storage and organization, but the added ballistic protection sets it apart. It does not outperform higher-end options in terms of material quality or weather resistance, but the protective element adds value for specific use cases.
Breaking Down the Features of NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Digital Camouflage
Specifications
- The NcStar Assault Backplate includes one Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate measuring 11″ x 14″. It’s designed for pistol caliber protection, meeting Level IIIA Standard 0101.06, and capable of stopping 9mm and .44 Mag rounds up to 1,400 FPS. It’s crucial to note that this plate does not offer rifle ammunition protection.
- The ballistic plate is constructed from UHMWPE fabrics, pressed using a proprietary technique to reduce weight. A durable polyurea coating provides corrosion protection, structural enhancement, waterproofing, abrasion resistance, and cosmetic appeal.
- The assault backpack has multiple compartments and MOLLE webbing for organization and customization, offering over 2,200 square inches of storage capacity. Main Compartment Dimensions: 18” H x 12” W x 6.5” D (1404 Square Inches). Middle Compartment Dimensions: 18” H x 12” W x 2.5” D (540 Square Inches).
- Top Outside Compartment Dimensions: 5” H x 10.25” W x 1.25” D (64 Square Inches) and 1” H x 5” W loop fastener for attaching Name Tape. Bottom Outside Compartment Dimensions: 10.75”H x 10.75”W x 1.75” D (202 Square Inches) and 2” H x 3” W loop fastener for attaching hook and loop patches. The backpack comes in a digital camouflage pattern.
These specifications are relevant because they define the level of protection offered, the backpack’s storage capacity, and its ability to be customized. Knowing the ballistic plate is only rated for pistol calibers is paramount for understanding its limitations.
Performance & Functionality
The NcStar Assault Backplate functions reasonably well, fulfilling its primary role as a storage solution with added ballistic protection. The backpack provides ample space for carrying essential gear, and the various compartments allow for organized storage.
Its strengths lie in its affordability and the inclusion of a Level IIIA ballistic plate. The weaknesses are the lack of water resistance and the potentially questionable long-term durability of the camouflage fabric. It meets expectations as a basic tactical backpack with enhanced safety, but it does not exceed them in terms of overall quality or high-end features.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is adequate for the price point, with decent stitching and functional zippers. The materials used are practical, but the fabric feels less robust compared to higher-end tactical packs.
There is minimal learning curve. It’s a straightforward design, and the MOLLE webbing allows for personalized configuration.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability is a potential concern. The fabric is showing signs of wear, but the ballistic plate appears very durable due to its protective coating.
Maintenance is simple, requiring basic cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap. Regular inspection of the stitching and zippers is recommended to identify any potential issues early on.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcStar Assault Backplate does not come with many additional accessories beyond the included ballistic plate. The MOLLE webbing provides extensive customization options, allowing users to attach pouches, holsters, and other tactical accessories from various brands.
The backpack is compatible with most standard MOLLE-compatible accessories, making it easy to tailor the pack to specific needs.
Pros and Cons of NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Digital Camouflage
Pros
- Affordable price point for a backpack with Level IIIA ballistic protection.
- Ample storage space with multiple compartments for organized gear.
- Extensive MOLLE webbing for customization with various accessories.
- Durable polyurea coating on the ballistic plate for enhanced protection and longevity.
- Comfortable weight distribution for moderate loads.
Cons
- Limited to Level IIIA pistol caliber protection; no rifle protection.
- Backpack fabric is not very water-resistant.
Who Should Buy NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Digital Camouflage?
The NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Digital Camouflage is perfect for individuals seeking an affordable tactical backpack with basic ballistic protection against common pistol threats. This includes security personnel, range officers, or anyone working in environments with potential risks from handgun fire.
Those requiring rifle-level protection or those prioritizing high-end material quality and weather resistance should skip this product. A must-have modification is a waterproof rain cover to protect gear in wet conditions.
Conclusion on NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Digital Camouflage
The NcStar Assault Backplate with 11″x14″ Level IIIA Hard Ballistic Plate Digital Camouflage offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking a tactical backpack with basic ballistic protection at an affordable price. While it may not boast the premium materials or advanced features of higher-end options, it provides adequate storage, customizable organization, and peace of mind knowing that you have some level of protection against pistol threats.
The price is justified for what it provides, balancing cost with functionality and safety. I would recommend it to individuals who understand its limitations and prioritize affordability and basic ballistic protection.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to add a layer of safety to your tactical gear, the NcStar Assault Backplate is worth considering. Equip yourself wisely and stay safe.