Time for a new IDPA Vest: Which One?

[JonInWA]

Since my sponsor provided me with a logo'd SigTac vest, I usually use it (it's quite good in its own right), but I've also found that Barbour's moleskin shooting vest is excellent-both on and off the range.

Best, Jon

[cclaxton]

Orvis had a fantastic, if not expensive collection of vests for just about any weather/wear.
http://www.orvis.com/store/product_s...ubcat_id=40693

But their prices are just too much for me as much as I want the $350 Lambskin Vest.

I ordered this one from Cabela's for EDC. Just hope it is long enough for me:

http://www.cabelas.com/product/Outba...FQ-a4AoddwoAcw

For competition, still haven't decided. Still leaning towards the Cordura one.

BTW, if you want to learn how to super-starch your cotton/canvas vest, I used this process. The jacket will actually stand up by itself when finished:
http://www.thefedoralounge.com/showt...-Grandma-s-Way
CC

[cclaxton]

Getting close to a decision. Got a lot of good links from people. Here is one for great concealed carry vests: http://concealedcarry.com/
They also carry the velcro pocket carry option. the velcro holds the firearm in your pocket securely until needed. Check out this link: http://concealedcarry.com/categories/Internal-Pockets/ They also offer a metal-free, velcro-style gunbelt which I may get. Prices are reasonable.

I am still leaning toward the Competition Concealment vest made with Cordura, although it is not as fashionable...looks kinda girly in the back....there I said it.

Armadillo is the second choice...

Decisions, decisions.
Cody

[feudist]

I used the Tropic vest from Concealed Carry Clothiers(your link) for over ten years.

Long lasting, hard wearing, wash and wear.

Cool enough for Alabama summers.

It doesn't scream "TacVest" like some do.

I did look like a fashion felon, but i didn't care.

Time to replace it.

[rathos]

I ended up with one of these:

http://tacticalgear.com/mens-propper...FQNBQgodkmUAJQ

I will say I don't compete in IDPA but I bought this vest as a cover garment for everyday wear. I have even worn it in the NW summers. It also doesn't look "tactical" so its not out of place when worn on the street, but does a good job of covering my gear.

[cclaxton]

After two days of back and forth, I decided on the Competition Concealment Vest in Tan.
Reasons: While the Armadillo have a better style and are a bit more comfy, they are still cotton-canvas and needs to be starched to keep it's stiffness. After washing multiple times, they start to wash out and look like denim.

My main purpose for the vest is to compete and it must perform functionally, so I gave up a bit of style for function. But the CompCon comes with the added benefits of no starching, easy care, resistance to wear, and color retention. The tension belts can be removed if I don't like them and it will fall straight. I will figure that part out once I get it.

Also, the lady who makes them said she would sew on some patches for free. So I am mailing them to her. I wanted to put the USPSA Patch on the vest....but decided I didn't want the grief I would get from the USPSA snobs. If only I had a KSTG patch....

Thanks for everyone's posts...learned a lot about concealment clothing and vests.

Cody

[archris]

Thanks for the recommendation...very nice, but maybe out of my price range.

CC

I think, you have to try here too - Southernad.com

[rob_s]

After two days of back and forth, I decided on the Competition Concealment Vest in Tan.
Reasons: While the Armadillo have a better style and are a bit more comfy, they are still cotton-canvas and needs to be starched to keep it's stiffness. After washing multiple times, they start to wash out and look like denim.

My main purpose for the vest is to compete and it must perform functionally, so I gave up a bit of style for function. But the CompCon comes with the added benefits of no starching, easy care, resistance to wear, and color retention. The tension belts can be removed if I don't like them and it will fall straight. I will figure that part out once I get it.

Also, the lady who makes them said she would sew on some patches for free. So I am mailing them to her. I wanted to put the USPSA Patch on the vest....but decided I didn't want the grief I would get from the USPSA snobs. If only I had a KSTG patch....

Thanks for everyone's posts...learned a lot about concealment clothing and vests.

Cody

What do you think so far?

[rob_s]

What do you think so far?

bump. still curious to hear impressions.

[cclaxton]

I LOVE the Competition Concealment Vest. The fabric is naturally stiff and I just go for the gun and the vest moves out of my way. It has really increased my confidence level in going for the gun explosively. It was reasonably priced and the lady that makes them was nice enough to sew some patches on the vest. The lower pockets will stay wide open when you push the flap inside, so makes dropping mags in the pocket very fast and easy. The only downside is style...it is gathered in the back and has a bit of a "skirt" look. But shooting sports are not really about fashion are they? Never need to starch it either. Just wash on delicate with light detergent, line dry. Not a lot of variety on color, either. Again, fashion issue.

http://www.competitiveconcealment.com/

For everyday carry vests fashion is a bit more desired. I use the following:
Columbia Black Fleece Vest: http://www.columbia.com/Cathedral-Pe...140322173003:s

2) Black Oilskin insulated Vest for colder temperatures: http://www.countryewe.com/outback-tr...e?productId=33


Cody