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Pre-MSA Paraclete RAV / RMV Plate Carrier

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The Paraclete pre-MSA RAV is the original version of the Releasable Assault Vest, a highly sought-after, patented single-point quick-release armor carrier used by U.S. Special Operations Forces in the early 2000s. Paraclete was acquired by Mine Safety Appliances (MSA) around the mid-2000s, making the "pre-MSA" versions desirable for their historical significance and specific manufacturing details

Associated

Pre-MSA Paraclete
Pre-MSA Paraclete STAK
Pre-MSA

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Manufacturer: Pre-MSA ParacleteModel: RAV / RMV Plate CarrierCondition: Has been used with some wear, but is in overall good condition.Color: Smoke Green SGSize: LargeDate: 2003Details: Will come as shown. Missing the cable that ties the release system together, but everything still works as a normal vest. Would be easily replacable however.

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paraclete pre msa rav

The Paraclete pre-MSA RAV is the original version of the Releasable Assault Vest, a highly sought-after, patented single-point quick-release armor carrier used by U.S. Special Operations Forces in the early 2000s. Paraclete was acquired by Mine Safety Appliances (MSA) around the mid-2000s, making the "pre-MSA" versions desirable for their historical significance and specific manufacturing details.

Key Features and Details
The pre-MSA Paraclete RAV (Releasable Assault Vest) was known for its innovative design and reliability during the Global War on Terror (GWOT). Patented Single-Point Release: The defining feature is a cable pull release system that allows the user to instantly and completely remove the vest in an emergency, such as a vehicle rollover or for immediate medical access.
Modular Webbing: It featured full MOLLE-style grid webbing, compatible with a wide range of standard military pouches and Paraclete's own patented attachment system, allowing for mission-specific customization.
Armor Compatibility: The vest was designed to hold BALCS (Body Armor Load Carrying System) soft armor inserts and SAPI (Small Arms Protective Insert) hard plates (including ESAPI) in front, back, and side pockets.
Construction: The outer shell was constructed of durable 1000-denier Cordura® nylon and the inner lining with 400-denier pack cloth for comfort.
Integrated Systems: It included built-in channels on the shoulders for routing communication cables and hydration tubes.
Internal and External Cummerbunds: The vest featured both internal and external adjustable cummerbunds for enhanced stabilization and a secure fit.
Zip-off Back Panel: The back panel could be zipped off and exchanged, allowing users to easily change the configuration of the vest's back (e.g., adding a different panel for a specific radio or breaching kit).

Pre-MSA vs. MSA Paraclete
The main differences between the original and later MSA versions are related to manufacturing changes following the acquisition:Quality perception: "Pre-MSA" gear is often considered higher quality by collectors and users due to a belief that production standards changed after the company was bought out and mass production increased.
Design variations: Minor design tweaks occurred over time. For example, the 2007 MSA version included a drop-down front flap to cover the external cummerbund, eliminating the need for snaps used on earlier models.
The pre-MSA Paraclete RAV holds a significant place in tactical gear history, known for its innovative design and widespread use by elite military units during the early 2000s.
Would you like a side-by-side comparison of specific features between the pre-MSA Paraclete RAV and a later MSA Paraclete model to highlight the exact differences?

Distinguishing between pre-MSA and MSA Paraclete RAV models is essential for collectors and gear enthusiasts, as the pre-MSA era (prior to 2006) is highly prized for its hand-made quality and use by elite units like CAG (Delta Force).

Feature Comparison: Pre-MSA vs. MSA RAV

Feature Pre-MSA Paraclete RAVMSA Paraclete RAV (Post-2006)
Manufacturing Small-batch, hand-assembled in St. Pauls, NC. Large-scale mass production after acquisition by MSA.
Front Closure Features snaps to secure the external cummerbund to the front flap. 2007+ models use a drop-down front flap to cover the cummerbund, eliminating snaps.
MOLLE Straps Early pouches used thick, buckle-style MOLLE attachment straps. Transitioned to thinner "tuck-style" MOLLE on later pouches for less bulk.
Labels/Tags Typically has a small green tag with simple numbers (e.g., "2442"). Includes standard MSA Paraclete labels with modern branding and dates.
Velcro Color Early pre-MSA often used blue Velcro on internal sections before moving to green. Consistent use of standard color-matched Velcro (e.g., Smoke Green).
Shoulder Flaps Simple flaps for routing cables/hydration. Often features rubberized textured shoulders for improved weapon seating.
Collector Value High ($150–$650 depending on color and condition). Lower; valued primarily for utility rather than historical provenance.

Identification TipsColor Check: The signature "Delta" color is Smoke Green. If it is pre-MSA Smoke Green, it is considered the "holy grail" for GWOT-era cloners.
The "Snaps" Test: Check the front of the vest where the cummerbund attaches. If you see visible metal snaps, it is likely an older Gen 1 or Gen 2 pre-MSA design.
Internal Lining: Pre-MSA versions typically use 400-denier pack cloth for the inner lining to improve user comfort against the body.
Do you need help identifying a specific tag or serial number to confirm if a vest you've found is a genuine pre-MSA unit?

Paraclete RAV Medium Delta CAG PRE MSA Smoke Green RANGER SFOD SEAL OLD GEN

This Paraclete RAV Medium Delta CAG PRE MSA Smoke Green RANGER SFOD SEAL OLD GEN is a must-have for any collector or enthusiast of militaria. Made in the United States, this original item is perfect for those interested in personal, field gear. The brand Paraclete is known for their high-quality products and this RAV is no exception. With a theme of militaria and a focus on the United States, this pouch is a great addition to any collection. Whether you're a collector or just someone interested in the topic, this RAV is sure to impress.1 - RAV RELEASABLE ARMOR VEST 4 - 2 Mag Pouches 1 - Full back MOLLE Panel 1 - Cummerbund L/R side 2 - Shoulder pads Complete Neck CuffNO ARMOR / NO INSERTS

Paraclete Smoke Green Drop Leg Pistol Holster

Paraclete Smoke Green

Drop Leg Pistol Holster
2000s

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Description

PreMSA "The Gear Specialists" Paraclete smoke green drop leg pistol holster. We believe this is one of the "garage" pieces of Paraclete before they became a larger company. Very rare and surely won't be seen again.

PART NUM.

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TITLE

Drop Leg Pistol Holster

DATE

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FORMAT

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COLLECTION

Paraclete The Gear Specialists

ACQUISITION

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REFERENCE

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Physical Description

History note Category

Printed Label

Associated

Paraclete Smoke Green
Paraclete RAV

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Paraclete RAV / Releasable Asault Vest Smoke Green

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Photo : bickyikeda

The Paraclete RAV (Releasable Assault Vest) was a cornerstone of Special Operations equipment during the early stages of the Iraq War (OIF), defining the look of "Tier 1" units during that era.

Units and Adoption

Delta Force (CAG): The RAV is most famously associated with 1st SFOD-D around 2003–2005. It was often seen in Smoke Green, which became a signature color for the unit before the widespread move to MultiCam.

AFSOC: Air Force Special Operations, including Pararescuemen (PJs) and Combat Controllers (CCTs), heavily utilized the RAV for its integrated medical and communications capabilities.

ISOF (Golden Division): The Iraqi Special Operations Forces were famously equipped with RAVs (often clones or older stock) during their formation and subsequent urban battles.

Why it was Chosen

The Cutaway System: The "R" in RAV stands for Releasable. It featured a patented single-pull cable system that allowed the vest to fall apart in seconds. This was critical for CASEVAC (medical evacuation) or if an operator fell into water (a major concern during the crossing of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers).

Zip-on Back Panels: Long before Crye Precision popularized back panels, Paraclete used a heavy-duty zipper system. This allowed operators to swap mission-specific back loads (breaching tools, hydration, or extra flashbangs) without unweaving MOLLE straps.

BALCS Protection: The vest used the BALCS (Body Armor Load Carriage System) soft armor cut, which provided a large surface area of fragmentation protection while allowing for the insertion of SAPI hard plates.

Cummerbund Design: Unlike earlier vests, the RAV utilized an internal and external cummerbund, which provided a stable platform for heavy loads and prevented the vest from shifting during dynamic room clearing.

Legacy
The Paraclete RAV is considered the "grandfather" of modern releasable plate carriers. While it has been largely replaced by lighter systems like the Crye Precision AVS, it remains a legendary piece of gear for collectors and historians of the Global War on Terror (GWOT).

Paraclete Pre-MSA PRC-117E Radio Pack Smoke Green

Paraclete Pre-MSA

PRC-117E Radio Pack
2004

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This is a

Brand

Paraclete

TITLE

PRC-117E Radio Pouch

Part Number

RBE019R

Date

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nSN

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MATERIALS

Cordura 1000D

Contract

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OBJECT TYPE

Radio Pouch

LOT NUMBER

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Color

Smoke Green

London Bridge LBT Rare Silver Tag 804 Prototype 300 Win Mag Sniper Stock Pouch

PERSON DEPICTED

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DIMENSIONS

image size: 7 1/4 x 9 1/2 in.
paper size: 8 x 10 in.

CREDIT LINE

~~The Jack Shear Collection of Photography at the Tang Teaching Museum~~

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About

Man Pack RBE019R
Paraclete pre-MSA PRC-117E Backpack/Radio Pouch. Has backpack straps or it can directly attach to the back of a plate carrier or vest.

Highlights

Pre MSA Paraclete Fanny Pack Holster

Paraclete

Fanny Pack Holster
1999

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This is a rare

Brand

PARACLETE

TITLE

Fanny Pack Holster

Part Number

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Date

1999

nSN

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MATERIALS

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Contract

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OBJECT TYPE

Fanny Pack Holster

LOT NUMBER

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NASA ID

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London Bridge LBT Rare Silver Tag 804 Prototype 300 Win Mag Sniper Stock Pouch

PERSON DEPICTED

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DIMENSIONS

image size: 7 1/4 x 9 1/2 in.
paper size: 8 x 10 in.

CREDIT LINE

~~The Jack Shear Collection of Photography at the Tang Teaching Museum~~

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https://web.archive.org/web/20030928064912/http://paracletearmor.com/

https://web.archive.org/web/20011203012640/http://paracletearmor.com/

http://media.msanet.com/www/pdfs/msapoliceline/paraclete_acquisition_final.pdf

PITTSBURGH, September 7, 2006 – MSA (NYSE: MSA) today announced it has purchased Paraclete Armor and Equipment, Inc. of St. Pauls, N.C., a rapidly growing innovator and developer of advanced ballistic body armor used by military personnel, including Special Forces units of the U.S. military. Paraclete Armor, which employs approximately 200 people and had annual revenues of $16 million in 2005, will continue to operate from its North Carolina base of operations. The purchase price was $30 million

Paraclete PreMSA Medical / Assault Backpack Coyote brown

Coyote brown Paraclete PreMSA medical/assault backpack. Paraclete backpacks are extremely rare and way underrated. This bag was originally designed to be a medical bag although it is practically a modular/build your own assault pack. Includes two mesh removable pouches which are extremely lightweight and low profile.

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Pre-MSA Paraclete RAV / RMV Plate Carrier

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