The main features of a plate carrier ude vest panels, shoulder straps, waist straps/cummerbunds, pockets and pouches, attachment points, and a grab/drag handle. Vest panels are designed to hold the armor plates and can be inserted into pockets on the front and back of the carrier. Shoulder and waist straps are adjustable for a comfortable fit. Attachment points such as PALS/MOLLE allow for additional pouches and equipment to be attached. The grab/drag handle is used to quickly move the wearer in emergency situations.

Vest Panels: Vest panels are the main component of a plate carrier and are designed to hold the armor plates. The size of the vest panels varies depending on the size of the armor plates being used. Most plate carriers have front and back panels that are secured with Velcro or snaps.

Shoulder Straps: Shoulder straps are used to secure the plate carrier to the wearer's body and are adjustable for a comfortable fit. They are usually padded to reduce discomfort during extended wear.

Waist Straps: Waist straps are also adjustable and are used to keep the plate carrier in place. They can be tightened or loosened depending on the wearer's preference. Some plate carriers feature cummerbunds instead of straps. Cummerbunds allow for attaching side armor plates and other essential gear.

Pockets And Pouches: Plate carriers can have pockets and pouches used to store equipment and supplies.

Attachment Points: Attachment points such as PALS/MOLLE allow for additional pouches and equipment to be attached to the plate carrier. This system allows for customization and mission-specific loadouts.

• Pouch Attachment Ladder System [PALS] The Pouch Attachment Ladder System (PALS) is a standardized webbing system used to attach pouches and other equipment to a plate carrier. PALS is a series of horizontal rows of nylon webbing with evenly spaced slots for attaching pouches.
• Pockets And Pouches Pockets and pouches can be attached to the PALS/MOLLE system and can be used to store essential equipment and supplies such as first aid kits, ammunition, and communication devices.

Grab/Drag Handle: Another essential feature of a plate carrier is the grab/drag handle, which allows others to quickly and easily pull the wearer to safety or out of harm's way. The handle is typically located on the back of the carrier and should be sturdy enough to bear the weight of the wearer and their equipment.