Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest Review

Let’s Talk About Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest

The Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest isn’t just another piece of outdoor apparel; it’s a tactical tool disguised as everyday wear. Made by Rothco, a name synonymous with durable and affordable tactical gear, this vest aims to seamlessly blend functionality with a casual appearance. It promises to be the ultimate solution for those needing to carry essential gear discreetly, from firearms and magazines to everyday carry items.

As a seasoned outdoorsman and tactical gear enthusiast, I’ve always sought the perfect balance between practicality and concealment. My primary need was a discreet way to carry my essential items without attracting unwanted attention in urban environments. I was looking for something more versatile than a standard concealed carry holster, allowing me to distribute weight and carry additional gear.

Upon unboxing the Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest, I was immediately struck by the sheer number of pockets. The lightweight cotton/poly fabric felt surprisingly durable, although not as robust as some of the heavier-duty tactical vests I’ve used. The stitching appeared solid, and the overall build quality seemed decent for the price point.

I considered several similar vests, including the 5.11 Tactical Vest and the Condor Outdoor Tactical Vest. However, the Rothco stood out due to its lower price and seemingly greater number of pockets designed specifically for concealed carry. I was hoping that the ambidextrous CCW pockets would provide a comfortable and secure carry option, which was a key deciding factor.

My first impression was a mix of excitement and slight apprehension. I was eager to test the vest’s functionality and see how well it performed in real-world scenarios. I was also somewhat skeptical about whether it could truly conceal a firearm without printing, which is always a concern with concealed carry clothing.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest was at an outdoor shooting range on a relatively cool, overcast day. I wanted to evaluate how comfortably I could draw my firearm from the concealed carry pockets. I also wanted to see how the weight distribution affected my movement and shooting stance.

The vest performed reasonably well in the cool conditions, with the vented back providing decent breathability. Drawing my firearm from the ambidextrous CCW pocket was surprisingly smooth, though it required some practice to achieve a consistent grip. The numerous pockets were useful for storing magazines, ammunition, and other range essentials.

Initially, the sheer number of pockets was overwhelming. It took some time to figure out the best configuration for my gear and to remember where I had placed each item. I also noticed a slight amount of printing when carrying a larger-framed pistol, suggesting that careful selection of firearms and holsters is crucial.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, primarily during hiking trips and daily commutes, the Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest has held up reasonably well. The cotton/poly fabric has shown minimal signs of wear and tear, despite some exposure to light abrasion and moisture. The stitching remains intact, and the zippers continue to function smoothly.

The vest has proven to be relatively easy to clean, with most dirt and stains wiping off with a damp cloth. I did notice some slight fading of the fabric after being exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. Regular washing, according to the manufacturer’s instructions, should help maintain its appearance.

Compared to my previous experiences with more expensive tactical vests, the Rothco doesn’t offer the same level of durability or weather resistance. However, for its price point, it provides a good balance of functionality, comfort, and concealment. It has largely met my expectations for everyday carry and casual outdoor activities, though it wouldn’t be my first choice for more demanding or extreme environments.

Breaking Down the Features of Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest

Specifications

• Material: The Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest is constructed from a blend of 60% Cotton and 40% Polyester. This combination aims to balance comfort with durability, offering breathability while resisting wear and tear.
• Pockets: The vest features over 20 compartments, including 16 front pockets, 2 front slash pockets, multiple zippered and cargo pockets, and a large rear cargo pocket. This abundance of storage allows for organizing and carrying a wide range of essential gear.
• Concealed Carry Pockets: Two large padded ambidextrous CCW pockets are located on each side of the vest. These pockets are designed to comfortably conceal a firearm and minimize printing.
• Magazine Pouches: The interior of the vest includes four easy-to-access mag pouches (two on each side) with secure hook and loop closures. These pouches can accommodate ammunition clips, flashlights, or small devices.
• Zipper: A two-way zipper allows easy access to gear in pants and/or around the waist. This feature enhances convenience and accessibility.
• Ventilation: A three-slit vented back with mesh lining promotes airflow and keeps the wearer cool. This is especially beneficial in demanding situations.
• Adjustability: Adjustable side waist tabs enable an optimal fit. This feature allows users to customize the vest to their body shape and layering preferences.

These specifications are significant because they directly influence the vest’s utility and comfort. The numerous pockets provide ample storage, while the CCW pockets cater specifically to concealed carry needs. The ventilation and adjustability features enhance user comfort, making the vest suitable for various climates and activities.

Performance & Functionality

The Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest performs admirably in its intended role as a discreet carry solution. The abundance of pockets allows for efficient organization and easy access to essential gear.

Its strengths lie in its versatility and affordability. The ample storage and concealed carry options make it suitable for a wide range of activities.

However, the vest has some limitations, including the potential for printing with larger firearms and the relatively lightweight fabric. These weaknesses mean it might not be ideal for those requiring maximum concealment or extreme durability. Ultimately, the vest meets expectations for casual concealed carry and light outdoor use, but falls short of being a high-performance tactical garment.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest boasts a practical, if not overly stylish, design. The placement of the pockets is generally well-thought-out, providing easy access to frequently used items.

The build quality is decent for the price point, with solid stitching and functional zippers. The weight distribution is relatively even when the pockets are properly loaded, though a heavily loaded vest can become uncomfortable over extended periods. There’s a minimal learning curve associated with using the vest; however, it may take some time to find the optimal pocket configuration.

Durability & Maintenance

The Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest is expected to last for several years with regular use, provided it’s properly cared for. The cotton/poly fabric is reasonably durable, but it’s not as resistant to abrasion or tearing as heavier-duty materials like nylon.

The vest is relatively easy to maintain. Regular washing, spot cleaning, and prompt treatment of stains should help prolong its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest doesn’t come with many accessories, but its modular design allows for some customization. The various pockets can accommodate different types of holsters, magazine pouches, and other gear.

The vest is compatible with many popular concealed carry accessories from other brands. The user feedback suggests that the small pockets are useful for items like chapstick, but larger zipper pockets would be preferable.

Pros and Cons of Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest?

The Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest is perfect for individuals seeking an affordable and versatile concealed carry solution. It’s ideal for everyday carry, hiking, and other outdoor activities where discreetly carrying essential gear is important. It’s also well-suited for security personnel, plainclothes law enforcement, and anyone who needs to carry multiple items without attracting attention.

This vest might not be suitable for individuals who require maximum concealment or operate in extreme environments. Those needing a heavy-duty tactical vest with superior durability and weather resistance should consider other options.

Must-have accessories include a quality concealed carry holster designed for comfortable and secure carry within the CCW pockets. Additional magazine pouches or small gear organizers may also be beneficial for optimizing the use of the vest’s numerous pockets.

Conclusion on Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest

The Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest offers a compelling blend of functionality, affordability, and discreet carry capabilities. While it may not be the most durable or high-performance tactical vest on the market, it provides excellent value for its price.

The asking price of $79.99 is justified given the vest’s numerous features and versatility. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a practical and affordable concealed carry solution.

I would personally recommend the Rothco Plainclothes Concealed Carry Vest to individuals looking for a versatile and budget-friendly way to carry essential gear discreetly. It’s a great option for everyday carry, casual outdoor activities, and situations where blending in is paramount. Consider adding this vest to your arsenal for a practical and functional addition to your tactical wardrobe!