NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black Review

The NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black Made a Bold First Impression

I’ve seen a lot of tactical gear come and go in my decade-plus in this business. However, the NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black immediately caught my eye with its promise of high capacity and affordability.

My aging back had been complaining lately, and I was tired of lugging around heavy range bags. I needed a lightweight, accessible way to carry multiple AR magazines and a hydration system without breaking the bank. I had been contemplating between the Condor Modular Chest Set and the Blackhawk! S.T.R.I.K.E. Commando Recon Chest Harness, but their prices were significantly higher. The NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black offered a similar feature set at a fraction of the cost, which piqued my interest.

The rig arrived in a simple plastic bag, which wasn’t fancy, but sufficient. The black nylon felt surprisingly durable for the price. While it didn’t have the bombproof feel of some higher-end rigs I’ve handled, the stitching appeared solid, and the overall construction seemed adequate for my intended use. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic – it looked like a solid value proposition.

2. ## Real-World Testing: Putting NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black to the Test
   ### First Use Experience

I first tested the NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black at my local shooting range. I was running drills with my AR-15, focusing on speed reloads and target transitions. The weather was mild, but the range was dusty. The NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black performed surprisingly well during my range session.

The magazine pouches provided secure retention, and the bungee cords made for quick and easy access. After a few practice draws, my reloads were significantly faster than when I was fumbling with magazines in my belt pouches. No adjustment time was really needed; it was ready to go from the start.

### Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black has held up reasonably well, although some wear and tear is noticeable. The Nylon material is beginning to show some fraying around the edges of the magazine pouches, and the bungee retention straps have lost a bit of their elasticity. However, all stitching is holding firm. I haven’t needed to do much maintenance on it; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each range visit is sufficient to remove dust and grime. It’s no high-end rig but it does its job.

Compared to some of the more expensive chest rigs I’ve used in the past, the NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black doesn’t offer the same level of long-term durability. It’s important to remember the significantly lower price point. However, for occasional range use or as a backup rig, it certainly gets the job done without breaking the bank.

3. ## Breaking Down the Features of NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black
   ### Specifications

The NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black is constructed from durable nylon and comes in black. It features six double AR magazine pouches with bungee retention straps, allowing it to hold up to twelve magazines. It is hydration bladder compatible (bladder not included) and includes PALS/MOLLE webbing on the front and back. The rig also has four heavy-duty D-rings on the suspenders.

The key specification here is the magazine capacity. Being able to carry twelve AR magazines makes it a serious contender for extended range sessions or tactical scenarios. The PALS/MOLLE webbing adds versatility. It allows users to attach additional pouches and accessories to customize the rig to their specific needs.

### Performance & Functionality

The NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black performs its primary job of carrying AR magazines effectively. The retention straps ensure that magazines stay secure, even during vigorous movement. The PALS/MOLLE webbing allows for the attachment of medical kits, radio pouches, or other essential gear. A notable weakness is the quality of the nylon material, which is not as durable or resistant to wear and tear as higher-end options.

It certainly meets my expectations, considering the price. It’s a functional and affordable chest rig that provides a solid foundation for carrying essential gear.

### Design & Ergonomics

The rig is designed to be fully adjustable, accommodating a wide range of body sizes. The shoulder straps and waist belt are easily adjustable. It’s fairly comfortable to wear, even when fully loaded, but the lack of padding can become noticeable during extended use. The nylon material is relatively lightweight, which helps to minimize fatigue, but the overall build quality feels somewhat basic. There is a minimal learning curve; the design is straightforward.

### Durability & Maintenance

The NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black is not built to withstand extreme abuse, but it’s reasonably durable for its price point. With proper care and maintenance, it should last for several years of occasional to moderate use. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth and mild detergent.

### Accessories and Customization Options

The NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black doesn’t come with any included accessories beyond the integrated magazine pouches. Its strength lies in its PALS/MOLLE compatibility. This allows users to attach a wide range of third-party pouches, holsters, and other accessories to customize the rig to their specific needs. Popular accessories include hydration carriers, medical pouches, and radio holsters. The compatibility with industry-standard PALS/MOLLE webbing makes it a versatile platform for customization.

4. ## Pros and Cons of NCSTAR VISM AR CHEST RIG Black