Plate Carrier Review: Crye Precision JPC 2.0 (with IceVents and IcePlate install tips)

In 2010, Crye Precision revolutionized the tactical gear landscape with the launch of the Jumpable Plate Carrier (JPC). This innovative design marked a significant departure from traditional plate carriers that emphasized maximal coverage and load-bearing capabilities. Instead, the JPC is focused on maximum mobility, maneuverability, and weight savings, effectively changing the paradigm of tactical load-bearing equipment.

Fast forward to 2015, Crye Precision introduced the JPC 2.0, an iteration that many in the tactical community consider the benchmark for modern plate carriers. The popularity of the JPC 2.0 has been so profound that it has inspired numerous imitations, ranging from Chinese counterfeits to models from American influencer-backed companies.

Given the years that have passed since its release, it's time to revisit the Crye Precision JPC 2.0 and evaluate how it stands up against the current generation of plate carriers designed to meet the operator's needs. Here is a glimpse at how the JPC 2.0 stacked up in our Best Plate Carriers of 2024 blog:

The Short Answer: The Crye Precision JPC 2.0 is a revolutionary plate carrier known for its emphasis on mobility, weight reduction, and modularity. Despite its strengths, it lacks built-in thermoregulation and hydration systems as well as the ability to fully optimize with IceAge Ecosystem products, which is critical for extended operations. 

Crye Precision JPC 2.0 Review: IceAge Ecosystem Integration

The JPC 2.0 serves as an ideal platform for our ICEVENTS® Shoulder Pads, both Aero and Classic. However, it lacks the necessary Velcro® loop or MOLLE attachments to support ICEVENTS Classic Ventilation Pontoons, which are crucial for convective thermoregulation under body armor. Furthermore, the design of the JPC 2.0 confines IMS and IMS Pro systems to external mounting on the rear plate bag only. This setup limits users from leveraging the full conductive thermoregulation capabilities of our IMS Pro.

Additionally, ICEPLATE EXO® MOLLE Placard is compatible with the JPC 2.0 using G-hooks or SwiftClips, though it attaches only at the top, leaving the bottom of the MOLLE Placard unsecured.

Crye Precision JPC 2.0 Review: Weight

When evaluating a plate carrier like the JPC 2.0, weight is a paramount consideration. The carrier's weight dry is 22.95 ounces, and its wet weight reaches 39.6 ounces, with a dry/wet gain of 16.65 ounces. This measure provides a clear perspective on the weight dynamics of the carrier under different conditions, emphasizing JPC 2.0's focus on reducing unnecessary weight while maintaining structural integrity and functionality.

Overall, in terms of weight, the Crye Precision JPC 2.0 was considered at the forefront of plate carriers designed for speed, maneuverability, and weight reduction when it was released. In 2024, we can safely say that there are plate carriers that outdo it in terms of weight.

Crye Precision JPC 2.0 Review: Thermoregulation & Hydration

One of the limitations of the Crye Precision JPC 2.0 is its native capabilities for thermoregulation and hydration. The original design does not include integrated systems for managing heat or hydration effectively. This is crucial for potential users who may need to augment these capabilities for extended operations or in challenging environments.

To enhance thermoregulation, modifications would need to be made to the plate bags to allow for the attachment of systems such as MOLLE or internal loop Velcro®. However, the JPC 2.0 only offers a minimal piece of spacer mesh, providing limited benefits for evaporation. Users can add our ICEVENTS® Shoulder Pads for improved evaporation and comfort, although the Classic Ventilation Pontoons remain incompatible due to design constraints.

Crye Precision JPC 2.0 Review: Unique Features & Attachment Mechanisms

Unique Features

The Crye Precision JPC 2.0 shines in its array of unique features that cater specifically to the high demands of tactical operations. It includes a patented integrated attachment system, featuring the most innovative quick-release system on the market. This system operates with Velcro® and is designed so robustly that there is virtually no risk of it breaking, a testament to the high-quality engineering standards maintained by Crye Precision. The carrier is also compatible with all AVS detachable front flaps, enhancing its modularity and versatility in various operational settings.

Attachment Mechanisms

The JPC 2.0 is equipped with multiple attachment mechanisms that enhance its functionality and adaptability. These include Velcro® for quick adjustments and secure fittings, MOLLE for modular attachments, and unique zip-on panels that integrate only with Crye zip-on back panels. This exclusivity ensures seamless integration and top-notch performance. It's noteworthy that while the IMS Pro can be mounted outside the Crye zip-on back panel, this configuration only supports hydration functionality and does not extend to internal thermoregulation benefits.

Crye Precision JPC 2.0 Review: Other Factors to Consider

Variety

The JPC 2.0 is available in a wide range of colors including multi-cam, multi-cam black, multi-cam alpine, multi-cam tropic, coyote brown, ranger green, and black. This variety ensures that there is a JPC 2.0 to suit the aesthetic and operational preferences of a wide demographic of users.

Sizing Adjustability

The JPC 2.0 comes with a variety of configuration options. It features long Velcro® on the shoulder straps and almost unlimited adjustability with the cummerbund system, which includes shock cords that can be set to your desired length. This adaptability makes the JPC 2.0 suitable for operators of different sizes and builds, enhancing its utility across a broader user base.

Plate Bags

The plate bag options available with the JPC 2.0 include SAPI, ESAPI, and Swimmer Cut, with sizes ranging from small to extra large. This flexibility in plate bag sizing further underscores the carrier's modularity and its ability to meet diverse operational needs.

Country of Origin

The JPC 2.0 is proudly made in the USA using American materials, an indicator of its high quality and commitment to innovation.

Price

Priced at $241.90, which includes both plate bags and the cummerbund, the JPC 2.0 (like any plate carrier) represents a significant investment. However, considering the critical role of a plate carrier in life-threatening situations, the cost should not be the primary factor in the decision-making process.

Crye Precision JPC 2.0 Review: Conclusion

In reviewing the Crye Precision JPC 2.0, it is evident that this plate carrier stands as a testament to innovative design, emphasizing speed, maneuverability, and modularity. However, for those who require not only a plate carrier but a comprehensive survival and performance system, Qore Performance extends an invitation to experience the future of plate carriers with ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3.

ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 represents the pinnacle of our commitment to enhancing the physiological capabilities of elite, armed professionals. This state-of-the-art plate carrier does more than just carry plates; it weaponizes temperature to counteract environmental challenges, dramatically expanding operational envelope access and offering unparalleled competitive advantages. With its integration of our patented ICEPLATE® and ICEVENTS® technologies, ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 offers advanced thermoregulation and hydration capabilities, enabling operators to maintain peak performance and endurance in any environment.

For those dedicated to dominating the tactical landscape, ICEPLATE EXO® Gen 3 isn't just an option – it is the only option. Join us in Building A Superhuman Future®.

Other resources you might find interesting:

Article: why we don't use spacer mesh in our plate carriers

Interactive Tool: plate carrier weight calculator

Physics in Plate Carrier/Body Armor Design: Methods of Heat Transfer

Plate Carrier Hydration and Body Armor Cooling:
IMS vs IMS Pro: what is the difference?