PIG Plate Carrier (US Pat. Nos. 9,222,757 & D781,000)
by Sean
PIG Plate Carrier - The PIG Plate Carrier is the most versatile PC I have ever worn. The LIK Kit is a huge plus for limiting the amount of straps hanging off of my body armor. Having the ability to change the attachment points for the Double D ring (I love saying that) to fastex is great for my weak side. I can still ditch it quickly on one side but don't have anything that interferes with my my rifle stock on my firing side. The super small profile of the PIG rig is amazing. i no longer feel like the state puff marshmallow man in my Armor. I was a little worried when i first put it on that it wasn't giving me enough coverage. Then I realized MY ESAPI plate was in it.... made me realize how poorly I had covered my vital organs in the past. The high riding PIG PC keeps my thoracic area covered better than any other PC I have ever worn and I have a full range of motion. The way I see it, I'll survive a gut shot more than likely (although the pain may make me want to die) but my chances of surviving a collapse lung due to trauma are slim.
The Patrol Incident Gear Plate Carrier (PIG PC) is a Patented (US Pat. Nos. 9,222,757 & D781,000) design that was over two years in the making. Starting off as a modified Eagle Plate Carrier Pre-production model in 2007, we threw out the drawing board altogether and performed a complete ground-up metamorphosis based directly on a list of functional attributes we wanted to feature. The result is the most versatile, and most highly-rated plate carrier on the market. The PIG PC is a lightweight plate carrier system that allows the user to configure the kit to work optimally with their mission profile. It is proudly Made in the USA, and offers some of the most unique features available on a plate carrier today.
Approx. weight (w/ Molle Cummerbund): 2 lbs 11 oz
- Elevated Plate Profile - Most plate carriers on the market tend to carry the plate extremely low in relation to the most vital organs and vessels in the upper-thoracic region they are meant to protect. One of the main goals of this carrier was to get both front and back plates high enough to maximize protection of your vitals. An adjustable plate harness pushes each plate to the top of the plate pocket, and keeps plates centered left and right through internal velcro stabilizers. The PIG PC also places the top of the rear plate ABOVE the connection point to the shoulder straps. This allows both front and rear plates to be optimally positioned without sacrificing comfort.
- One Size Fits Most – The adjustable plate harness and the internal Velcro stabilizers allow the wearer to use any size SAPI/ESAPI plate from Small through Extra Large (or similar corner cut plates) without having the plates bottom out or swim around in the carrier. The PIG is the only plate carrier that can secure this wide range of plate sizes while maintaining such a low footprint on the wearer.
- Rear Padding System - The rear plate carrier features two vertical back pads that keep contact off of your spine and creates an air-flow channel to aid in increased ventilation and heat dissipation. These vertical pads flow into the integral padded shoulder straps, creating a continuous shock-absorbing feature that is extremely comfortable for extended use.
- Hybrid Construction - Utilizes 500 Denier Cordura and lightweight Pack Nylon in different areas according to abrasion exposure to minimize weight.
- Multiple Cummerbund Options - Now you can get all the features you want, or just those you need with regards to the cummerbund. With 2 cummerbund options and 3 side plate carrier options, you have multiple configurations to select from.
- Scalable Side Plate Pocket Options - Now you can use 6"x 6" side plates as well as 6"x 8" & 7" x 8" models with the extended retention strap feature on both of our Side Plate Carrier models. The elastic expansion capability allows you to run just a side plate, or both a side plate and a soft armor backer behind it with no slop or movement in the pouch. The PIG Modular Side Plate Carrier (MSPC) adds the most versatility, securing most any size side plate with or without soft armor backer to any Molle surface.
- Dedicated Plate-backer Pockets - Each PIG PC ships with a custom cut foam panel that sits inside a dedicated pocket to increase comfort for the wearer. You can access and replace this panel with a soft armor insert without having to touch your plates and visa-versa. This makes plus-ing up or scaling down a much simpler operation.
- G-Hook Applications - The PIG PC is the first production Plate Carrier to utilize ITW G-Hook, easily one of the most versatile pieces of hardware available to the tactical market today. Used in the primary shoulder strap attachment, it allows the user to replace hardware in the field and select between a side release buckle or a metal D-ring assembly. The PIG PC Load Integration Kit also uses G-Hooks to seamlessly integrate the popular Eagle Yote pack to the PIG PC.
- Semi-Rigid Drag Handle - The tubular nylon drag handle houses a length of plastic tubing to increase surface area and comfort when gripping.
- Split Cummerbund Retention Flaps - By splitting the cummerbund flaps, the user is able to keep one side attached at all times through repeated don/doff cycles. The flaps' outer corners are retained by snap tabs that come up from underneath to keep the corner retained. Each flap includes a kangaroo pouch for hasty item storage or integration of dedicated flap pouches.
- Front & Back Velcro PALS - Now you don't have to settle for either just a velcro panel, or PALS without velcro. Both front and back plate compartments have velcro-covered PALS webbing that lets the user configure the Plate Carrier with ID patches or modular pouches as necessary.
To order a functional PIG-PC system, at a minimum you must select 1 x PIG PC Chassis and 1 x PIG PC Cummerbund. This Ala Carte system allows the user to custom configure their carrier for their specific mission straight from the vendor.
Want a Low-Profile High Mobility configuration with slick sides? Select the PIG PC Chassis with PIG-PC-CBE (Elastic Cummerbund). This is easily the most comfortable and adjustable combination.
Want to maximize load capability and run with side plates? Choose the PIG-PC Chassis with PIG Plate Carrier Molle Cummerbund (previously named: Soft Armor Compatible Molle Cummerbund) and PIG-PC-SPC-CBM (Side Plate Carrier, Molle Cummerbund). Want Cummerbund Soft Armor inserts and the Side plate in front of the soft armor? Select the PIG Cummerbund Soft Armor Inserts and the MSPC.
Options are as follows:
- PIG-PC-CBE / Elastic Cummerbund - A simple 4" wide elastic cummerbund attaches via velcro to the rear cummerbund channel on the PIG-PC Chassis. When configured, user should affix the cummerbund on the bottom-most 4 inches of the rear cummerbund channel, and correspondingly secure the front of the cummerbund at the bottom-most 4 inches under the front cummerbund flaps.
- PIG Molle Cummerbund (previously named Soft Armor Compatible Cummerbund)- Offering 10 columns and 3 rows of PALS webbing on each side, this cummerbund allows for a host of modular mounting options. Adjustments to the shock cord can be made through an adjustment slot in the rear cummerbund channel of the PIG-PC Chassis. The offset paracord pull handles aide in removal when doffing. The inside of the cummerbund is lined with loop velcro to incorporate the PIG-PC-SPC-CBM (Side Plate Carrier, Molle Cummerbund) with a webbing loop for a retention tether. *This item can be used with the Eagle Molle Plate Carrier with Cummerbund.*
- PIG Elastic Cummerbund Sleeve - Instantly provides you with 6 columns and 4 adjacent rows of Molle to increase your load bearing capability. The Elastic Cummerbund Side Plate Carrier: allows you to carry any side plate from 6" x 6", 6" x 8" and 7" x 8". The Elastic Cummerbund Molle Sleeve w/ Side Plate Carrier: combines the features of both of the previous systems into one product.
- PIG-PC-SPC-CBM / Side Plate Carrier for Molle Cummerbund - This velcro pouch offers the user a side plate capability for the PIG-PC-CBM. Due to the large velcro engagement area inside the cummerbund, the user has a host of placement options, fore and aft, as well as by turning the orientation of the pouch. The pouch will hold 6"x 6" side plates as well as 6"x 8" & 7" x 8" with the retention strap oriented up or down. The cord supplied with each PIG-PC-SPC-CBM is for a tether to be tied through the grommet on the cummerbund for additional retention in extreme environments.
- PIG-MSPC / Modular Side Plate Carrier- When running Soft Armor in the Cummerbund, it is important to keep the Side Plate in front of the soft armor. The MSPC allows the wearer to do just that. Utilizing Malice clips, the MSPC attaches to the PIG Molle Cummerbund and any other Molle interface.
- PIG-PC-LIK / Load Integration Kit - Utilizing the innovative G-Hook from ITW, this kit includes all the necessary hardware to allow for the seamless integration of load and/or hydration systems such as the popular Eagle YOTE.
- PIG-PC-GH-SRB / G-Hook Side Release Buckle Kit (2) - Each PIG-PC-Chassis includes this item as a primary attachment for front and back plate carriers. This kit provides 2 additional assemblies to use as field replacements, or to attach additional accessories to the array of G-Hook anchors on the PIG-PC padded shoulder straps.
- PIG-PC-GH-DD / G-Hook Double D-Ring Kit (2) - This double ring assembly allows the user to replace a G-Hook Side Release Buckle assembly on the PIG-PC Chassis to allow for a reduced profile, and very quick strap adjustment.
For plate carrier fitting advice, please see the SKD post: How to Choose the Right Size Plate Carrier
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PIG Plate Carrier Plate Installation
How to install plates in the front and back plate pockets for ...
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PIG Plate Carrier Soft Armor Compatible Molle Cummerbund
3 part video detailing the installation of the Molle Cummerbun...
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PIG Plate Carrier Elastic Cummerbund
Details and installation of the Elastic Cummerbund for the PIG...
Reviews
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Outstanding PC!
I just received my new PIC PC (Black) with MOLLE Cummerbund and it is awesome! It is the perfect solution to my LE gear for an active shooter or high risk response. I have used many kits in the past and have always strived for a KISS approach. This kit allows me to throw on extra protection, a few mags, and a IFAK in seconds. The PIG sits high enough to clear my duty belt without modifications. It is very comfortable for a PC. Beats the hell out of anything the Army ever issued to me! Wish I had one of these downrange!
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SKD PIG Rocks...
I am a full time LEO and use this rig on all enforcement ops. First off the PIG plate carrier is comfortable. I used it recently on a 8 hour operation with ease. My only issue is shouldering a long gun with the carrier on. The buckle gets in the way of the stock at times. I will switch out one side to the D ring as soon as they are in stock. Overall I love the PIG plate carrier and have tried many others to include MSA and Diamondback Tactical. By far my best personal purchase regarding body armor.
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Excellent comfort, fit, and protection
I wore the PIG PC for over a year in Northern AFG. I can't speak enough about the quality and workmanship of this piece of kit. Spending many days in vehicles and conducting multi-day dismounted operations, this PC provided continued comfort and protection covering your most vital areas. Excellent well thought design and quality make this one of the best pieces of gear I've owned. I also later added the soft armor inserts and they are awesome and easily integrated with the PIG PC.
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PIG Plate Carrier
Well made product. I like that the front flaps are separate so that I can keep one side closed and put on the vest with only undoing one side.
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Best plate carrier available at a great price!
I'm a city police officer and use this for active shooter/weapon calls. I researched every plate carrier and the PIG beat all others hands down. It's very affordable and the workmanship is top notch. It's extremely easy to put on or take off due to the split cummerbund. It carries any size plate you put in it, in the correct position (Thoracic cavity) as advertised. I work in a class A uniform and the PIG allows me to access the items on my duty belt without interfering with their operation. The PIG is light weight compared to other plate carriers, but is durable. Lastly the SKD's staff is top notch and friendly. They answered all my questions were professional. I'm an SKD customer for life!
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Comfortable
Very inexpsenaive but very well made. Recommend to anyone looking for a comfortable plate carrier.
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Unencumbering - Belt friendly- Ergonomic
My biggest problem with most plate carriers is I feel that I have a big bulky piece of gear on. What I love about the P.I.G. is I don't notice I'm wearing it. I have full movement and good access to my pouches. I like to run things off my belt and the P.I.G. allows me to easily access my pistol and magazines I have on my belt. Lastly the P.I.G. sits in the right spot. My armor is right where is should be on my upper chest.
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If I had to get shot at again, I would wear this
As a medical student, I know anatomy and understand the importance of positioning the armor in the proper place in order to cover your vitals. Most armor systems leave your Aortic arch exposed. If you get hit in your Aortic arch you are DONE so you best cover it with your armor and leave more of your guts exposed. The PIG allows you proper adjustment to cover your Aortic arch. My only complaint is that I prefer to run a two point sling and the design of the PIG makes that difficult/impossible. The rear plate sticks up an inch or so above where the shoulder straps connect to it, making a shelf of sorts that a two point wants to slide off of -the means your two point ends up either too high (basically on your nape) or two low (which will then slide off altogether. I remedied this situation by making a wolf-hook with a G-hook double D ring kit, a piece of nylon and a QD adapter.
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This PIG is out-friggin-standing!!
I'm a patrol officer for a medium-sized municipal PD. I had used several brands of heavy armor as a throw-over vest for "hot" calls. I could never seem to get the vest to fit comfortably and not interfere with my radio without taking it completely off (time's a-wastin'). They also interfered with my duty belt. These issues caused me to start looking for better solutions. The PIG dons, adjusts and rides EXACTLY as advertised. I had several officers of varying sizes (from circus midget to mongo) try this thing on and each of them were able to easily adjust it to fit. Even when running,the plates don't shift and it snugs up perfectly without ever restricting my breathing. My agency is BROKE (whose isn't) which meant spending my $$$. I consider it money well spent though, and would do it again in a heartbeat. On top of the PIG being everything I expected, SKD's customer service was outstanding. It arrived ahead of schedule and for only $5! Thanks again SKD!!