Quoted:
I may try that, but it kind of defeats the purpose of the separate pockets. I am just surprised I am the first person to bring this up. Basically it seems the system is set up for a proprietary plate backer, which diminishes the overall flexibility. I am aware it is nit picking, but it is something to consider. A simple lightweight hangar similar to what is used on the hard plate would solve it outright.
Hey jinx667,
The system is designed around a specific soft armor backer for the separate pocket, and if you wanted to use another plate backer you would run it behind the plate directly in the plate pocket like SOS mentioned. The overall dimensions of the PIG soft armor panel are very close to the shape of an XL SAPI, but about the height of a L SAPI. We wanted to “optimize” the protection for the majority plate sizes (M & L) while still keeping it useable for the XL plate.
The idea behind having a single plate backer regardless of the front plate size is that with most plates (M & L) it affords you additional protection at minimal weight gain, not only in the Soft Armor capability, but specifically in its ability to enhance the rifle plate's protective capabilities. I'm not a nuclear physicist, but I do know that In-conjunction plates only work at their highest rating when there is enough soft armor in a certain diameter circle behind the impact, which is why edge shots don't rate at the highest level of protection. The more soft armor you have past the edge of the plate, the better the protection when there is a strike close to the edge.
This is a unique feature of the PIG PC design that applies to L SAPI plates and smaller- you will extend the performance of the plate itself by virtue of affording it a backer that extends beyond the edge of the plates, at least on the sides. It is the reason we developed a separate specific soft armor pocket that keeps the soft armor in place regardless of the changing of plate size.
So yes, it is made for a specific plate backer, and yes, we knew that people who wanted to use their smaller plate backers could use it in the plate pocket, but no, you're not the first person to bring this up. I know this doesn’t “address” your situation, but I hope it sheds light on the thinking behind the design!
Enjoy and let us know how it does for you as you use it long term!