This year at SHOT Show 2022 I had the chance to check out the NEW Mk5 Micro Fight Chassis by Spiritus Systems. Based on lots of use and feedback, they have updated the design in both materials and pattern.
If you aren’t familiar with Spiritus Systems, they’re a manufacturer of tactical gear made here in the U.S. They make hard-use gear for today’s warfighters, law enforcement, as well as the tactically-minded consumer. They have been making their chest rigs for a number of years now and the design, while slowly changing, has stayed pretty much the same — until now!
For starters, the material used has changed. While the previous Micro Fight Chest Rig was made out of cordura, the new Mk5 is made out of a special laminate that gives it greater strength and durability, as well as the ability to be laser cut. This opens the door for more attachment points and more overall flexibility when it comes time to set it up.
The design has changed quite a bit, too. Rather than two open pockets on the Mk4, where you could either put magazine inserts, flaps or other accessories, the Mk5 is simply one pocket for inserts.
Based on feedback, the front pocket on the older design wasn’t used that much. So by doing away with it, they created a more streamlined chest rig and were able to cover the front with female velcro. This lets you attach the cummerbund on your plate carrier across the front of the Mk5, such as the LV-119.
But there is still tons of modularity. Even though the Mk5 only has one pouch for magazine inserts, thanks to the PALS compatible front, you can mount other pouches, magazine or otherwise, on the system. Or, you can use the new CCS Pouch. The CCS Pouch covers the front of the Mk5, similar to the old second pouch. But the CCS has two zippered compartments. This lets you keep all those smaller items secure, rather than using a velcro flap like on the older Mk4.
Overall this expansion of the Micro Fight Chest Rig line is one more option that lets you, the user, configure your gear however you see fit for the mission at hand. Expect to see the Mk5 Micro Fight Chassis and CCS Pouch in Q1 of 2022.
Price-wise, the Mk5 and CCS will be around the same price as the Mk4 Chassis. And like the previous Mk4, all of the components can be purchased individually. So you can use your harness, back-strap and inserts from your other chest rig and just upgrade the Chassis.
