Vism AK Chest Rig Review

Let’s Dive into Vism AK Chest Rig

The Vism AK Chest Rig by VISM promises a streamlined and affordable solution for carrying AK magazines and essential gear. This chest rig, designed with the AK platform in mind, boasts features like double magazine pouches with bungee retention and additional gear pouches, all at a budget-friendly price point of $32.99. Is it a diamond in the rough or just another cheap piece of kit?

I was looking for a low-cost, lightweight chest rig to keep in my truck as part of a grab-and-go bag. Specifically, I wanted something that could hold AK magazines, but that could be adaptable for other types of gear, if needed. I’ve seen a lot of expensive rigs, but frankly, I didn’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on something that might just sit in a bag for years.

Upon unboxing, the Vism AK Chest Rig immediately struck me as surprisingly robust for its price. The material felt thicker than I expected, and the stitching, while not perfect, seemed adequately durable. Compared to higher-end rigs I’ve used from Blue Force Gear or Spiritus Systems, it’s definitely not in the same league, but those cost 5-10x more. I considered the Condor Outdoor Modular Chest Rig and the UTG 547 Law Enforcement Tactical Vest, but the Vism AK Chest Rig’s simple design and AK-specific pouches were more appealing to my needs.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The low price made me skeptical, but the initial impression was better than expected. Hopefully, my experiences with the chest rig will reflect similar sentiment.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Vism AK Chest Rig to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Vism AK Chest Rig was at an outdoor shooting range on a brisk autumn day. I loaded it up with six 30-round AK magazines, a small first-aid kit in one of the side pouches, and a multi-tool in the other. The temperature was around 45 degrees Fahrenheit with a light drizzle.

The chest rig performed adequately, holding the magazines securely and allowing for relatively quick reloads. The bungee retention straps did their job, keeping the magazines from flopping around. One thing I noticed was that the material, while thick, seemed to absorb water pretty quickly. It became noticeably heavier after about an hour in the drizzle.

I did not need much time to get used to using this product. I just adjusted it, threw it on, and started using it. I was suprised that it stayed securely on me, considering the cheaper price point.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of intermittent use at the range and on a few short hikes, the Vism AK Chest Rig is showing some signs of wear, but nothing catastrophic. The stitching around the edges of the magazine pouches is starting to fray slightly, and the bungee cords have lost some of their elasticity.

The durability is acceptable for the price. I wouldn’t expect this rig to hold up to heavy, daily use in a harsh environment, but for occasional range trips and light tactical applications, it should suffice.

Maintenance is simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. I would not put this rig in a washing machine for any reason. The Vism AK Chest Rig is not going to outperform higher end gear, but it does get the job done for a significantly reduced price.

Breaking Down the Features of Vism AK Chest Rig

Specifications

The Vism AK Chest Rig, manufactured by VISM, boasts the following specifications:

• It features three double AK magazine pouches with bungee retention straps, capable of carrying up to six magazines. This is the primary function of the rig and dictates its overall design.
• It includes two gear pouches on the outside for additional equipment and a belly pouch for even more gear. These provide versatility beyond just carrying magazines.
• The rig is fully adjustable, with adjustable shoulder and waist straps. This allows for a customized fit for various body types.
• The overall length is 10.5 inches, and the width is 13.5 inches. These dimensions define the overall size and profile of the chest rig.
• It utilizes a hook, strap, and loop fastener/closure type and features padded shoulder straps. These contribute to user comfort and security.
• The rig is designed for tactical applications and is compatible with MOLLE accessory attachment systems. This makes it suitable for military and law enforcement use, as well as civilian tactical training and preparedness.

These specifications are important because they define the Vism AK Chest Rig’s intended use, its carrying capacity, and its adjustability. The inclusion of MOLLE webbing adds versatility for attaching additional pouches or accessories.

Performance & Functionality

The Vism AK Chest Rig performs its primary job of carrying AK magazines adequately. The magazine pouches are sized well and provide a snug fit for standard 30-round AK magazines.

The bungee retention straps keep the magazines secure during movement, but they can be a bit awkward to manipulate with gloved hands. The side gear pouches are large enough to hold small first-aid kits, multi-tools, or spare parts, but they lack any internal organization.

The chest rig meets expectations for its price point. However, the materials and construction are not as robust as higher-end chest rigs.

Design & Ergonomics

The Vism AK Chest Rig features a simple, no-frills design. The materials feel reasonably durable, and the overall construction seems solid enough for light to moderate use.

The weight is relatively light, even when fully loaded with magazines. There’s a slight learning curve as it relates to manipulating the bungee retention straps on the magazines.

Durability & Maintenance

The Vism AK Chest Rig is not designed for heavy-duty use. The stitching is not reinforced in critical areas, and the materials are not as abrasion-resistant as those found in more expensive rigs.

Maintenance is simple; just wipe it down with a damp cloth as needed. Avoid harsh chemicals or detergents, as these could damage the fabric.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Vism AK Chest Rig does not come with any accessories. The MOLLE webbing on the sides of the rig allows for the attachment of additional pouches, holsters, or other accessories.

The rig is compatible with most standard MOLLE-compatible accessories. However, the limited amount of MOLLE real estate restricts customization options.

Pros and Cons of Vism AK Chest Rig

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Who Should Buy Vism AK Chest Rig?

The Vism AK Chest Rig is perfect for:

• Budget-conscious shooters who need a simple and affordable way to carry AK magazines.
• Casual range users who only need a chest rig for occasional use.
• Preppers and survivalists looking for a basic load-carrying solution for emergency situations.

Who should skip this product?

• Professional users (military, law enforcement) who need a highly durable and reliable chest rig for demanding environments.
• Competitive shooters who require advanced features and maximum performance.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• MOLLE-compatible pouches to expand carrying capacity and organization.
• A small first-aid kit to keep essential medical supplies readily accessible.

Conclusion on Vism AK Chest Rig

The Vism AK Chest Rig is a decent option for those seeking an affordable and functional solution for carrying AK magazines. It’s not the most durable or feature-rich chest rig on the market, but it gets the job done for a fraction of the cost of higher-end options.

The value proposition is good, especially considering the low price point. It’s a great option for those on a tight budget or who only need a chest rig for occasional use.

I would recommend this product to anyone looking for a basic and affordable chest rig for AK magazines. If you need a rugged, professional-grade chest rig, you’ll need to spend more money. For the price, the Vism AK Chest Rig is hard to beat. So, if you’re an AK enthusiast on a budget, give it a try!