TACTICAL OUTER VESTS

A police officer adjusts their tactical gear in a dimly lit setting. The vest, labeled

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Florida Highway Patrol Department of Energy of the United States of America Seal of the U.S. Border Patrol Seal of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Central scale symbol on shield, encircled by gold leaves, three stars, and "1972." Odessa Police of Texas Police of Anderson California Blue and gold sheriff badge with "Anoka County" text. Features a central star emblem with a detailed landscape scene, symbolizing law enforcement. Alaska State Troopers Florida Highway Patrol Department of Energy of the United States of America Seal of the U.S. Border Patrol Seal of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Central scale symbol on shield, encircled by gold leaves, three stars, and "1972." Odessa Police of Texas Police of Anderson California Blue and gold sheriff badge with "Anoka County" text. Features a central star emblem with a detailed landscape scene, symbolizing law enforcement. Alaska State Troopers Florida Highway Patrol Department of Energy of the United States of America Seal of the U.S. Border Patrol Seal of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Central scale symbol on shield, encircled by gold leaves, three stars, and "1972." Odessa Police of Texas Police of Anderson California Blue and gold sheriff badge with "Anoka County" text. Features a central star emblem with a detailed landscape scene, symbolizing law enforcement. Alaska State Troopers Florida Highway Patrol Department of Energy of the United States of America Seal of the U.S. Border Patrol Seal of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Central scale symbol on shield, encircled by gold leaves, three stars, and "1972." Odessa Police of Texas Police of Anderson California Blue and gold sheriff badge with "Anoka County" text. Features a central star emblem with a detailed landscape scene, symbolizing law enforcement. Alaska State Troopers Florida Highway Patrol Department of Energy of the United States of America Seal of the U.S. Border Patrol Seal of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Central scale symbol on shield, encircled by gold leaves, three stars, and "1972." Odessa Police of Texas Police of Anderson California Blue and gold sheriff badge with "Anoka County" text. Features a central star emblem with a detailed landscape scene, symbolizing law enforcement. Alaska State Troopers Florida Highway Patrol Department of Energy of the United States of America Seal of the U.S. Border Patrol Seal of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Central scale symbol on shield, encircled by gold leaves, three stars, and "1972." Odessa Police of Texas Police of Anderson California Blue and gold sheriff badge with "Anoka County" text. Features a central star emblem with a detailed landscape scene, symbolizing law enforcement. Alaska State Troopers Florida Highway Patrol Department of Energy of the United States of America Seal of the U.S. Border Patrol Seal of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Central scale symbol on shield, encircled by gold leaves, three stars, and "1972." Odessa Police of Texas Police of Anderson California Blue and gold sheriff badge with "Anoka County" text. Features a central star emblem with a detailed landscape scene, symbolizing law enforcement. Alaska State Troopers Florida Highway Patrol Department of Energy of the United States of America Seal of the U.S. Border Patrol Seal of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Central scale symbol on shield, encircled by gold leaves, three stars, and "1972." Odessa Police of Texas Police of Anderson California Blue and gold sheriff badge with "Anoka County" text. Features a central star emblem with a detailed landscape scene, symbolizing law enforcement. Alaska State Troopers Florida Highway Patrol Department of Energy of the United States of America Seal of the U.S. Border Patrol Seal of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Central scale symbol on shield, encircled by gold leaves, three stars, and "1972." Odessa Police of Texas Police of Anderson California Blue and gold sheriff badge with "Anoka County" text. Features a central star emblem with a detailed landscape scene, symbolizing law enforcement. Alaska State Troopers
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RTS TACTICAL VESTS

Our collection of tactical vests is engineered for military personnel, law enforcement officers, first responders, and responsible armed citizens who demand reliable protection and versatility in the field. Each design reflects a relentless commitment to performance, purpose-built to keep you protected and ready for the realities of modern operations.

Our armor is built in the USA and proven through our 30-day Department Testing Program. From ballistic panels that absorb impact to scalable systems that integrate body armor plates for rifle threats, these vests embody the highest standard of ballistic protection. Whether the mission calls for high-threat entry, covert surveillance, or long patrols, you’ll find a solution that provides professional-grade reliability.

WHY CHOOSE RTS TACTICAL VESTS

  • Elite protection: From Level IIIA soft armor to rifle-rated armor plates, our ballistic vests deliver confidence in hostile environments.
  • Tactical flexibility: Designed as modular carriers, our systems adapt to the task, scaling from concealable wear to full load-bearing vest setups.
  • Optimized for Movement: Each adjustable plate carrier and vest is engineered with mobility and comfort in mind.
  • Adaptive Armor: Need extra protection? Add optional trauma pads to your tactical vest to help absorb impact and reduce injury
  • Rapid deployment: From quick-release carrier mechanisms to low-profile compression carriers, every product is built for fast transitions.

Trusted in the line of duty, these vests are for those who demand nothing less than battle-tested gear.

COMPARING VEST TYPES

RTS Tactical offers a full spectrum of carrier vests, from low-profile concealable tactical plate carriers to heavy-duty load-bearing systems, so every operator has the right solution.

LOAD-BEARING TACTICAL VESTS

Operators who need load-bearing equipment turn to our MOLLE vests. These systems maximize storage capacity, allowing you to mount magazines, medical kits, comms, and mission-critical tools without sacrificing mobility. They’re heavy-duty by design yet optimized to maintain ergonomic balance for extended wear. Each is designed to integrate seamlessly with our NIJ-certified body armor plates, giving operators scalable protection against rifle-level threats.

CONCEALABLE VEST CARRIERS

When discretion is essential, our concealable vest lineup includes concealable under and over uniform-compatible designs. Built to blend beneath law enforcement uniforms or civilian attire, these vests use thin ballistic panels rated to NIJ-standard Level IIIA (HG2) that stop common handgun threats while remaining comfortable for all-day use. They deliver proven confidence for professionals who require covert protection.

ATHLETIC CARRIERS

For fast-moving tactical teams, the athletic carrier balances speed with strength. Lightweight, breathable, and streamlined, it carries front and back body armor plates while remaining low profile.

UNIFORM AND COMPRESSION CARRIERS

Uniform-compatible vests integrate seamlessly into duty gear, while compression carriers provide the most covert option. Sleeveless and breathable, these carriers hold ballistic panels close to the torso, functioning as ergonomic plate carriers under civilian clothing. Ideal for undercover units, executive protection, or any mission where a profile must remain minimal.

KEY FEATURES

  • Scalable ballistic protection: Transition from soft armor to hard armor rifle-rated plates in seconds.
  • Quick-release systems: Ensure rapid removal in emergencies with quick-release buckles and straps.
  • Modular plate carrier design: Configure your tactical gear vest with pouches and attachments.
  • Trauma pads and panel options: Reduce blunt force trauma and enhance comfort while absorbing impact.
  • Heavy-duty materials: Built to endure the toughest conditions while remaining lightweight and breathable.

Whether outfitting a tactical team or an individual patrol officer, our vests combine ballistic durability with the flexibility to adapt to every mission set. They’re complete body armor systems that integrate perfectly into your broader loadout. When paired with RTS Tactical body armor plates, they can provide the
stopping power you need against escalating threats, from handguns to high-velocity rifle rounds.

For urban operations, rural deployments, or covert missions, RTS Tactical delivers gear that professionals deploy.

FAQ

Collapsible content

Do RTS Tactical vests come with armor included?

Some models are sold as standalone carrier vests, while others ship with soft armor panels or optional armor plates. Be sure to check the product description, each listing clearly indicates whether ballistic panels or plates are included.

What’s the benefit of using a tactical vest without plates?

Wearing a tactical gear vest without plates reduces weight and enhances mobility. Many professionals use bulletproof vests or carriers with just Level IIIA armor for patrols, where handgun threats are most common. This setup still provides certified protection while remaining lighter and more breathable.

Can I upgrade a tactical vest to carry plates later?

Yes. Most of our tactical plate carriers are designed as scalable systems. Start with soft armor, then add body armor plates, including front and back plates or optional side plates when facing rifle-level threats. This flexibility makes them the best plate carriers for evolving situations.

Are RTS Tactical vests adjustable for different body types?

Absolutely. Each vest functions as an adjustable plate carrier vest, using straps and cummerbunds to ensure a secure, ergonomic fit across a wide range of body shapes and sizes. Proper adjustment not only enhances comfort but also maximizes ballistic coverage.

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