Halfway through the SFQC (Special Forces Qualification Course), I realized I had effectively utilized the ubiquitous Army issued FLC (Fighting Load Carrier) to its utmost potential and was left wanting. I could not efficiently carry my loadout as well as all my necessary comms equipment comfortably. The search was begun to uncover a more capable, effective, and moderately affordable replacement. I landed on the Tactical Tailor One-Piece MAV with BIB adapter.
The Tactical Tailor MAV is not a new technology, but simple sells. I’ve seen several of these rigs on the back end of multiple deployments and they’re still ticking. This system boasts ample MOLLE real estate (18×3 columns on the main body, the BIB adds another 9×3 column). Using a bit of Google Fu, I was able to find the TT MAV and the BIB adapter for around $115 for both pieces of equipment.
The rig performed very admirably. The TT MAV has outlasted two to three pouches that were attached to it. It is a fairly rudimentary design that does what it is designed to do: hold a decent amount of kit. The MAV is constructed of 1000D Cordura and features 1.5-inch wide harness webbing. The BIB extension was easy to attach and, for me personally, it was a needed addition if the user wanted to run an admin pouch or any other ancillary equipment at a higher chest level. The BIB, in essence, turns the TT MAV into a pseudo Rhodesian rig with a bit more MOLLE space.
A useful modification that I implemented was to attach an EOG 5 chemlight panel within the small map pocket of the MAV BIB.
The only two real deficiencies with I have found with my MAV are :
- The amount of MOLLE often can lend to the trend of overloading with too much weight
- The 1.5 crossed Harness often bunches up in its guide and can be slightly uncomfortable
Author – Ross R. is currently serving in the US Military Special Operations community.