I saw this item long ago on USRO, but waited until it was too late:http://www.unclesamsretailoutlet.com/Safariland-SPEAR-Equipment-Load-Carrying-Subsystem-p/763.htm  Just the other day, some complete units re-appeared.

Well, I was still on the fence until I got an e-mail from USRO for a 24-hr flash 20% off sale which included the above item plus a few other items I need to complete a project.  Note that all the items qualified for free shipping.

A little history of the entire system, plus a pic:http://nsrdec.natick.army.mil/media/fact/individual/SPEAR_BALCS.PDF

The front panels of the unit can be detached, and the belt, along with the upper rear back panel and front adaptors, can be worn alone, if desired.  Not a bad rig as vests go; at least the PALS webbing is slanted.  I believe these were originally intended to be worn over soft body armor, such as the OTV/Interceptor/IOTV because they are sized pretty big.  You big guys might be interested.

Disclaimer: no financial interest.

Safariland had to meet or exceed USGI specs to get the contract.  All of the Safariland stuff I've examined bears this out.

The items arrived yesterday, including the SPEAR kit.  I checked carefully, and everything is there, including the manual, which describes other equipment not in this particular kit configuration.  Interesting.

The items seem a little dusty/dirty, but a quick hosing-off will fix that.  Very lightly used.  Easily SDS/USGI-issue quality of materials and workmanship.  At 20% off, plus free shipping, a good deal for me.  YMMV.

As seen in the pix from the vendor, the Canteen/utility pouches have an additional pocket on the front.  The 2-qt canteen pouches have no provision to accept shoulder straps, but a couple of 1" D-rings in the PALS attachment straps will fix that.

Confirmed that this vest was originally intended to be worn over early-style body armor, such as the Interceptor vest.  It was intended to be issued as a kit, the exact kit being tailored to the individual's particular weapon and mission.  This particular kit is a general-purpose rifleman's kit.