AR500 Armor Comparison: Testudo versus Veritas

We get a lot of questions from customers asking about the differences between our Testudo Gen 2.0 and Veritas plate carriers.

There are a lot of similarities between them, so it can be easy to confuse the two, especially if you’re new to the whole body armor thing. 

Similarities

• They both can accommodate 10”x12” plates
• They’re both made of Cordura, with PALS webbing for MOLLE-compatible pouches
• They both feature side-straps with impact-resistant side-release buckles. When using a cummerbund, you can remove these to reduce weight and complexity. Without a cummerbund, you need them to secure the carrier.
  

So, with the similarities out of the way, here are the  here are the major differences between the two plate carriers:

Mission

The Testudo Gen 2.0 and Testudo Lite are designed to have everything you need, right out of the box, to carry as much gear as you want without having to buy extra items. The Veritas, conversely, was meant to be more minimal in design, carrying just enough to get you through a situation, where carrying a ton of gear might not be necessary. 

Plate Size

The Testudo is the only carrier in our line that can accommodate the larger 11”x14” plates and trauma pads, in addition to the standard 10”x12” plates and pads. So, if you are running the larger plates (or plan to), then the Testudo is the only way to go.  

The Veritas can only hold the 10”x12” plates.

Cummerbund

The Testudo Gen 2.0 comes with an included removable cummerbund that has integrated pockets for side-armor plates. These pockets can also be used to store small items, such as medical equipment, though that’s not their primary purpose. The cummerbund is also covered with PALS webbing so you can attach a variety of MOLLE-compatible pouches, such as mag pouches, general utility, or medical pouches.

The Veritas also has a cummerbund available, but it’s sold separately. To help reduce overall weight and follow along with the more minimal design of the carrier, the cummerbund is skeletonized and lacks the integrated side plate pockets of the Testudo.


Both the Testudo Gen 2.0 and Veritas are robust plate carriers that do their job well. Which you choose depends on what you need it for. If you're looking for a quick-to-put-on "bump in the night" rig that carries the essentials, the AR500 Armor Veritas should fit that need well. On the other hand, if you want something that has the ability to carry larger plates, a lot of gear, and can accommodate side plates right out of the box, then the AR500 Armor Testudo is what you're looking for.