Originally Posted by
Leftie
I'm a fan of Velocity Systems, and their quality is very, very good; I've found their stitching to be top notch.
I am a big fan of the SCARAB shoulders - the articulation is probably the best on the market, and they are seriously comfortable, as is the carrier in how it moves with your body. This is most noticeable if you've ever felt "binding" in plate carrier shoulders - it simply doesn't exist with the SCARAB shoulders, which translates into your plates staying where they are supposed to, and the entire system fitting really well.
In terms of modularity, there are a number of aftermarket products which are compatible with the SCARAB, and a few of the JPC-style cummerbunds can be retrofit if that's your thing. Velocity Systems also sells the carrier in a number of different configurations on their website, so if by "modular" you're asking if there are different options, then yes, it's modular in that you can mix and match many components. The zip-on/off back attachment is supposed to only be compatible with the Velocity Systems panels, but I haven't tested this out.
There is a noticeable difference (in a good way), in how the carrier handles a load even when the carrier weighs in excess of 25-30 lbs.
I can't speak to the Crye carriers, but by comparison, the Spiritus LV-119 is "lower profile" in that it's slick and their shoulder straps are marginally wider/less bulky than the SCARAB shoulders. What you gain in the width and lack of bulk, you do sacrifice in the mobility and relative comfort though, and this tends to exhibit itself under weight/awkward shooting positions.
The Spiritus LV-119 is comfy enough and is a solid plate carrier, but my preference goes to the SCARAB in terms of comfort, profile, and relative modularity (if you are willing to do the research to find what is compatible).
Also, good luck finding an LV-119 in stock; unless you're willing to pay a huge premium on the secondhand market, they are very difficult to come by.