I’ve had my Ace Link Patrol Vest for about nine months now, and it’s been an interesting journey. As a Training Manager in the armed security field, I’ve had the chance to really put the vest to the test in various conditions. When I first ordered it back in July 2024, things didn’t start off smoothly. I ordered the vest on sale for $100, expecting a smooth delivery process. Unfortunately, my local UPS store never received the package. Whether it was lost in transit, delivered to the wrong address, or possibly stolen, I can’t say for sure. Despite this hiccup, Ace Link couldn’t do much, but I decided to go ahead and order another one.
Upon receiving the vest, I noticed it was almost a carbon copy of the Safariland Oregon City Patrol Vest, but at a fraction of the price. Even better, it seemed to offer some extra options and features that could be beneficial for those in the field.
When I first tried on the vest, it fit well, and one thing that really stood out was the modularity. I could mount whatever gear I needed to the MOLLE system. I opted for the laser-cut version because I think it looks sharper. The vest has four pockets on the front, but I only really use the top two. They offer plenty of space for storing items, and on one side, I keep handcuff keys and pens, which works great. So far, the zippers on the top pockets have held up well.
Another standout feature is the Velcro sections that allow for customization with patches, name tags, and badges. The badge holder is versatile—it can hold a Velcro badge (which is what I use) or a metal badge, with a dedicated slot to slide it through. The name holder Velcro works well and can accommodate various sizes, adding a professional touch to the vest. The MOLLE system has held up well for most of my gear, such as my duty phone, handcuff case, flashlight holder, extra cartridges, scissors, and disposable glove holder. However, I’ve noticed some wear and sagging around the area where I’ve attached my triple mag holder, so I would recommend Ace Link consider beefing up this section to improve durability.
The vest’s body armor pockets work as expected. It can fit most panels, with dedicated pockets for 10×12 armor in both the front and rear, and seems to be of decent quality overall. That said, there are a couple of things I would improve. The front zipper could be sturdier. The bottom zipper is starting to make its way up slowly, and the top zipper struggles a bit to lock all the way. Additionally, the shoulder pads could use more cushioning to improve comfort, especially when worn for long periods.
As far as fit and comfort go, the vest is good overall. The only real issue is the lack of cushion in the shoulder pads, which could use some improvement for better comfort during extended wear. Durability has been good, and despite some zipper issues, it’s held up well over the past several months.
Ease of use and adjustability are also strong points. The vest is easy to adjust to fit a variety of body types, and all the attachments and adjustments are intuitive and simple to use.
When comparing it to other options, the Ace Link Patrol Vest offers great value and quality for the price. It’s an affordable alternative to more expensive vests, like the Safariland Oregon City Patrol Vest, without sacrificing key features.
I’ve had the chance to field-test the vest, and it’s been working pretty darn well. Whether in regular security work or during training exercises, the vest has performed reliably.
Pros:
- Affordable Price: At $100 to $150, it’s a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive patrol vests like the Safariland Oregon City Patrol Vest.
- Modular Design: The MOLLE system allows you to customize and mount a variety of gear, offering great flexibility.
- Velcro Badge Holder: Versatile badge holder for both Velcro and metal badges, as well as customizable name patches.
- Comfortable Fit: Overall, the fit is good, and it’s adjustable to suit different body types.
- Field-Tested: Has performed well in real-world security situations and training exercises.
- Body Armor Compatibility: Pockets for 10×12 armor in both the front and rear, allowing for added protection.
Cons:
- Zipper Issues: The bottom zipper is starting to come undone, and the top zipper has trouble locking fully.
- Lack of Shoulder Cushioning: The shoulder pads could use more padding for better comfort during extended wear.
- Wear on MOLLE System: The MOLLE system around the triple mag holder shows some wear, especially under heavy load.
- Made in China: While this helps keep costs low, some may prefer to buy American-made products.
- Neck Area Fit: The vest occasionally rubs against the neck in use-of-force situations, restricting movement slightly.
Overall, I’d give the Ace Link Patrol Vest a B+. It’s a solid, affordable option for anyone in need of a sharp, professional-looking patrol vest. It looks and feels far more professional than a typical plate carrier, and while there are a few areas that could use improvement, it’s a great choice for those on a budget or anyone looking for a versatile, functional vest.
