That is a great asset because it allows you get good ventilation in the torso area. The stitching is superb and they havent come unravelled or undone during the near 11 months ive used this product. Now for the pockets. Keep in mind that this isnt the new model of broadsword vest, so it is only 6+2 not 6+5 like the new one. with that in mind, this vest STILL can out haul most vests (Flurry, Recon, Scout etc) however that is the reason its a broadsword vest. to pack heat and LOTS of it. The 6 pod slots are on the back directly under the huge tank pouch. In between the outer and 2nd outer slot is a black ring that holds the extra pods (+2). The weight is distributed evenly across the back and makes it easy to carry. I also has a nice hydration bladder pocket. The tank pouch can fit any tank from 20 oz co2 to a 92 ci stubby HPA tank. I use a 72/3000 and it fits snugly and doesnt wiggle.



Pouches:

Stock it comes with a 6x8 in utility pouch, 2 grenade pouches with snap close buckles, a radio pouch that fits most radios and a medium sized zipper pouch. the 6x8 pouch and grenade pouch are held in place by this thing called interlock technology. pretty much, it uses velcro to lock in the lower pouches.



Other stuff:

The vest has belt keepers on the bottom so you can secure the vest better with a belt (really?). the broadsword also has a very big YKK zipper on the front and zipper pocket. It also has a circular velcro spot on the shoulder for a brigade patch or some other circular patch.



Conclusion:

This is a great vest. it has performed very well when i used it and has never let me down. If you need firepower and a nice way to carry it, this is handsdown the best vest out there (in my opinion).