What's wrong with T3? Pretty sure they are USA made...? Or at least, so says the tags on the items...
Have things changed with them now?
Also was under the impression that Shellback was owned/collaborating by/with TAG and generally GTG? Although I have also heard rumors that TAG's quality has taken a drop in recent years.
If folks are familiar with the big 1 and 2 tier brands, there's a LOT of that 1:1 repro thing the OP mentioned going around right now.
Kinda like how Vanquest rips off everyone from Maxpedition to ITS to Arc'teryx...
Also pretty sure Chase is just a subsidiary/ripoff of Warrior Assault Systems (however good WAS is/was, never used their items).
Now if you want an example of blatant shady/false advertising... HRT Tactical Gear would be it.
All sort of USA branding all over the site, on front of packaging, etc... items had "made in china" tags sewn inside. Clever...
I bought their three main placards to check out; one day I will have to write a serious review but, long story short:
Sewing seems acceptable, materials are a bit 'last gen'/2nd tier. The Maximus is a good idea, with about 75% execution, and some 'small but important' stuff missed.
The triple-M4 placards were good, a couple minor gripes but overall decent for $65.
The Response placards...sewing still ok, but with a couple overall QC issues (unevenly cut material on one, and poorly aligned attachment straps on another).
Can't say I hate them,...but the blatant misrepresentation of origin really peeved me...
Plus, clear QC can potentially be hit or miss.
OP, you almost had me sold on that Arbor Arms carrier though; was just on that site and couldn't believe I missed it. Am currently looking for similar PC options in that budget/design range, that can also accept the cummerbunds I already have that I like.
Unfortunately, I already learned my lesson on "one size fits most" carriers and medium plates + being a stick figure. Oh well...
I probably haven't been as thorough as the OP, but I've gone through around 15 PCs (and counting) over the last few years.
I am probably in the minority few that found the slickster rather...underwhelming. Then again, I am probably in the minority few who feels that, current market, there's really only 3-5 carriers that take things to that 'next level' that are worth bothering with.
YMMV.
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