For those who know what the RBAV-SF is, it will be a welcome surprise to hear that we actually have these in stock.  For those who don't, here's a quick overview.  

The RBAV-SF (Special Forces) is a lightweight releasable armor carrier issued to USSOCOM Forces.  It is an updated carrier that draws its origins from the CIRAS vest from Eagle Industries, which also had an older contract for USSOCOM.  Before anyone starts with my-CIRAS-can-beat-up-your-RBAV, it's important to note that both were designed largely by the same person- Matt Johnson- who designed for Eagle Industries, who had a stocking color named after him, ("MJK"-Matt Johnson Khaki), who went on to design for BAE, and who is now lead designer at Crye Precision.  

The RBAV-SF has several improvements over the earlier CIRAS design, but most notable is the ability to carry side plates integrally and the dramatic reduction in weight.  Through design changes and the use of lighter 500D cordura, the RBAV-SF achieves a .65 lb weight reduction over a comparable Maritime CIRAS (Mediums weighed in at 3.64 lbs and 4.29 lbs respectively).  The amazing thing is that it does so at a dramatic difference in price- RBAV-SFs have traditionally sold for $100 less than the CIRAS- and unlike the current commercial variants of the CIRAS, the RBAV-SF is made entirely in the USA.

The RBAV-SF uses SPEAR BALCS soft armor inserts, which are widely available from a variety of manufacturers.  They are designed to house SPEAR cut plates, which are the same shape as current military ESAPI plates, but will hold other shooter/swimmer cut plates as well.  BAE introduced the new RBAV-AF (Air Force) at SHOT, which takes design requirements from the Air Force Special Operations community and will be available shortly for the commercial market, but at a higher price point than the “SF” model.

BAE Eclipse had a few distributors carrying the RBAV-SF, but for the past 18 months, availability has been nearly non-existent for the commercial market.  We managed to come across some military contract RBAV-SFs in Multicam for a one-time deal, and we actually have these in stock at a discounted price of $350 (Click here).  This is a pre-cursor for things to come as we have large orders in with BAE that will be available shortly, but if you want a chance at owning an amazing releasable armor system at a price that is unheard of for an SF variant that is actually IN STOCK, you don't want to pass up this opportunity.  

Thanks!
p_w

Well the PIG is for light and fast missions,the RBAV is for ones where you need more protection.

Women have different shoes and purses for different occasions, Men have different Armor for different threat levels.

SOS

I've been running an RBAV-SF for almost 2 years now.  Love it.  I really wish I had an excuse to get one in MC (I am a multicam whore), but my khaki one will have to do.  I really recommend these vests and SKD is a great source!

Clasky,

You are ONE SEXY MUTHAFUCKA.


Ahem, yeah... so, M97?  My only comment is "Yes".  

Yes, it will accept 6x6 side plates.  The internal pouches can hold the plates or be divided to hold 2x M4 mags.  Here is a little tip: those expensive HK steel mags are a bit heavier than pmags.  But, if you use 4 loaded HK mags in your side plate pockets, they will stop a 7.62x39 round in a direct impact.  And, you can use them in a pinch.  

<sigh> if only I could get the ladies to think that...  

Actually, it is only made for 6x6 plates.  There is a non-adjustable strap that snaps over the top of the plate.  The side pouch is sized for 6x6 and the plates are secure in them.  They are not loose.

Sounds good to me.  Send me an IM