MTV vs. Interceptor

The Modular Tactical Vest was a large improvement in some areas over the former Interceptor body armor system.  However some of the improvements made to the MTV have caused some marines to want their previous flak jacket back the interceptor.   The MTV provides much more protection in areas than its predecessor.  The MTV has side SAPI (Small Arms Protective Insert) plate carriers built in to the MTV vs. Interceptor where the side SAPI plates were just attachments.  One of the major up sides to the MTV is a quick release system.  This system consists of a pull cord down by the waste, and two plastic clips on the shoulders.  This enables the MTV to come apart in a split second if there was ever a need. (If you had been injured and were in need immediate medical attention)  Now there are some down sides to the MTV.  The first being the weight of the vest after you put the SAPI plates in before any other gear has been added to the vest it weighs approximately between 30-35 pounds.  Now go ahead and add a combat load which can be another 20 to 40 lbs on top of that and it gets really heavy really fast.   Also the MTV can really limit your mobility.  I personally wore an MTV in Iraq I liked it.  I felt more protected.  I also liked how it rested on my shoulders more than the Interceptor, but I was also mounted in an MRAP, so I did not have to go out on foot patrols.  Now I did not like how the MTV limited my mobility, and if I were to of gone on foot patrols I would of wanted something much smaller and lighter in weight like modified MTV.  However I would chose the MTV over the Interceptor any day.Olive-drab