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Posted: 9/24/2008 5:58:59 PM EDT
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I am reasonably sure the ballistic performance is similar given the IIIA ratings, but was wondering if anyone knows if one is lighter, softer, more breathable, durable, etc. Looking at the PPI CIRAS inserts from SKD and the PROTECH Stealth SS from ATS. They are in the same price stratosphere, so I was looking for any distinguishing characteristics, or if SKD vs. ATS has a better track record for customer service. Inserts will be for ECLiPSE RBAV. |
Both are competitors of mine...were I not in the business, I'd buy from either one. But since I can get armor at wholesale, well, I don't need to. :) To be honest, I don't know about Protech, but if they're both 100% P-Aramid (PPI's is Twaron), then they're likely to be very similar in weight and flexibility. BALCS cut is standard, so the fit will be the same for the same sized panels. I am fairly certain that SKD carries the 100% Aramid panels, I don't know what the composition of the Protech panels that ATS carries is. SKD sells only to mil/LE. I don't know ATS' policy. |
I believe the Stealth SS series are hybrid, whereas the Stealth series are 100% aramid. I had some Stealth series and they were sealed good. But, for some reason they had small patches located on the middle bottom and shoulder areas. These patches would peel-off a bit and you could see blue threading underneath. I didn't understand what that was for unless it was to sew the wrap to the armor? If you look closely in the pic you can see it.  I also have a set of PACAs which are also heat-sealed and doesn't have those patches. The seal is good but I noticed that the wrap on the Protech is a bit more solid. And when it comes to customer service both SKD and ATS are TOP NOTCH! 
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Where are you getting the RBAV?? I've been waiting for ATS to get some in.. Also, what plates are you looking at running? I'll probably be getting PPI Soft armor and Plates.. CXS |
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CXS, I am waiting for ATS to stock the the ECLiPSE carriers as well. I have been issued an old non-MOLLE/PALS plate carrier with old IIIA inserts (non-BALCS) and Point Blank level IV plates. My carrier is pretty useless and since MY vest was used during "drown-proofing" training, I just felt it was time to upgrade my whole rig (even though it will be out of my own pocket). I figure the plates (though old and heavy) are still GTG. |
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Backorders are being accepted for the RBAV.. TimW, Quick questions.. Do you know the dimensional difference of the BALCS panels in XL and XL Tall?? I am thinking the XL-T will bug me when sitting or kneeling, but am curious anyway. I have used the XL sized Paraclete RAV and the very lower portion of my beer gut hung below it.. Its actually not as important that my gut be covered as to being functional and comfortable. And really, as long as my good shit is covered I thing I'm g2g.. CXS |
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