Let’s Talk About Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier
The Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier is the latest offering from Tactical Assault Gear (TAG), a company known for its durable and functional tactical gear. Designed as a blend of their best-selling carriers, the Cannon Plate Carrier aims to improve upon existing features and meet the demands of discerning users. I’ve been in the tactical gear game for over a decade, and plate carriers have become as essential as my boots.
What drew me to the Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier was the promise of enhanced mobility without sacrificing vital protection. My old carrier shifted constantly, especially when running drills, and I was tired of the constant adjustments. The promise of adjustable plate pocket straps and TWEAVE backing material sounded like it would provide a more stable and comfortable platform.
Unboxing the Cannon Plate Carrier, I immediately noted the rugged feel of the 500 denier Invista Cordura nylon. It felt substantial without being overly heavy, a good first sign. The stitching appeared clean and reinforced, suggesting solid construction and durability.
I considered the Crye Precision JPC and the Ferro Concepts Slickster before settling on the TAG Cannon. The Crye is top-tier but expensive, while the Slickster felt a bit too minimalist for my needs. The Cannon Plate Carrier seemed to strike a good balance between features, durability, and price.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The design seemed well thought-out, and the materials felt high quality, but the real test would be in the field. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier at a local shooting range during a full-day carbine course. The course involved a lot of movement drills, transitions, and working from various shooting positions. I also subjected it to a force-on-force training scenario simulating real-world threats.
The Cannon Plate Carrier performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions, during this training day that started with rain, and ended with dust. The TWEAVE material on the back panel did a great job of wicking away moisture, keeping me relatively cool and dry even during intense exertion. I didn’t need much time to get used to the carrier; the adjustments were intuitive, and the contoured shoulder pads provided immediate comfort.
The only minor issue I encountered was some initial stiffness in the elastic cummerbund, but that subsided after a few hours of use. Overall, the first use was positive, with the Cannon Plate Carrier providing a stable and comfortable platform for running drills.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. I’ve used it in multiple training sessions, hiking trips, and even a weekend-long survival skills course. The carrier has held up exceptionally well, with no significant signs of wear and tear.
The 500 denier Cordura nylon has resisted abrasion and tearing, even when exposed to rough terrain and heavy use. Cleaning is also a breeze; I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or use a mild detergent for tougher stains. Compared to my previous experiences with less durable carriers, the TAG Cannon has exceeded my expectations in terms of longevity and performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier
Specifications
The Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier is designed to accommodate both shooter-cut and swimmer-cut plates. It features fully adjustable armor plate straps to ensure proper plate placement. The cummerbund has built-in side plate pockets that can accommodate plates up to 7″ H x 6.5″ W.
- Plate Compatibility: Accommodates shooter-cut and swimmer-cut plates, offering versatility for different plate types.
- Adjustability: Fully adjustable armor plate straps ensure proper plate placement for optimal protection and comfort.
- Side Plate Pockets: Cummerbund features built-in side plate pockets for enhanced coverage and protection.
- Material: Constructed from durable 500 denier Invista Cordura nylon for long-lasting performance.
- Back Panel: TWEAVE material on the back panel wicks away moisture and enhances comfort.
- Shoulder Pads: Contoured and removable padded shoulder pads provide added comfort.
- Cummerbund: Protected elastic cummerbunds offer a secure and comfortable fit.
These specifications are vital because they directly influence the carrier’s comfort, protective capabilities, and overall usability. Proper plate placement is critical for ensuring vital organs are adequately protected, while durable materials and comfortable design enhance user endurance during extended operations.
Performance & Functionality
The Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier performs its job admirably, providing a secure and comfortable platform for carrying plates and essential gear. The adjustable plate straps ensure that the plates remain in the correct position, even during strenuous activity. The absence of MOLLE on the upper portion of the carrier and the top row of the cummerbund is a surprising feature that streamlines the overall design.
The carrier’s strengths lie in its comfortable fit, durable construction, and well-thought-out design. One potential area for improvement would be the addition of some sort of integrated cable management system. Overall, the Cannon Plate Carrier meets and slightly exceeds my expectations for a mid-range plate carrier.
Design & Ergonomics
The Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier boasts a streamlined and ergonomic design that promotes comfort and mobility. The Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier has great build quality, with robust materials, and a reasonable weight. The contoured shoulder pads and TWEAVE backing material enhance comfort during extended wear.
The carrier is relatively user-friendly, with intuitive adjustments and a straightforward design. The removable shoulder pads add to the carrier’s adaptability.
Durability & Maintenance
The Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier, with its 500 denier Invista Cordura nylon construction, is built to last. With proper care, the carrier should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild detergent. The Tactical Assault Gear Lifetime Warranty is a great value add for this plate carrier.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, focusing instead on providing a solid base platform. The large Velcro area on the front and back allows for easy attachment of patches and identification panels. The carrier is compatible with a wide range of MOLLE-compatible pouches and accessories, allowing users to customize it to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier
Pros
- Comfortable Fit: Contoured shoulder pads and TWEAVE backing material enhance comfort during extended wear.
- Durable Construction: 500 denier Invista Cordura nylon ensures long-lasting performance.
- Adjustable Plate Straps: Allows for precise plate placement and a secure fit.
- Lightweight Design: Balances protection with mobility.
- Built in Side Plate Pockets: Gives the user the option to increase coverage of vital areas.
Cons
- Limited Accessory Options: Doesn’t include many integrated accessory options.
- Cummerbund Stiffness: Elastic cummerbund can be stiff initially, requiring a break-in period.
Who Should Buy Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier?
The Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and serious tactical enthusiasts who require a durable and comfortable plate carrier. It’s also a good option for those involved in force-on-force training or anyone seeking a reliable platform for carrying plates and essential gear.
Those seeking a highly modular carrier with extensive integrated accessory options may want to explore other alternatives. Civilians looking for a basic carrier for emergencies should consider this option.
Must-have accessories include high-quality ballistic plates, MOLLE-compatible pouches, and a hydration carrier for extended operations.
Conclusion on Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier
The Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier is a well-designed and durably constructed plate carrier that offers a good balance of comfort, protection, and value. At $209.99, the price is justified given the quality of materials and construction.
I would personally recommend the Tactical Assault Gear Cannon Plate Carrier to anyone seeking a reliable and versatile plate carrier for professional or recreational use. Invest in your safety and performance with the TAG Cannon Plate Carrier today.