LF,
Good point on the shoulderstrap fabric differences.I prefer the Eagle system on my 'farm ruck',This gets worn more often than not wearing a t-shirt,usually a 'wifebeater',never over LBE,body armor or other gear,so the wicking,soft fabric and padding makes a big difference in comfort,compared to USGI and better shoulderstraps built with cordura material.
The straps I used in the pic are some cheapo knockoffs that came with an import frame.I rig my rucks up with Milspec QR straps on both sides,and just make another 'buttonhole' in the sternum strap.The ALICE QR mechanism is
much better than the new plastic ones I have on SDS MOLLE medpack shoulderstraps.The plastic ones are a teeny bit noisy on release,but if you drop ruck and want to re-connect the plastic ones on the sly,it's tough because they make a loud CLICK.
If you cannot sew a 'buttonhole' on your sternum strap.Tie a 1-1/4 inch diameter paracord loop and put this onto the QR instead of the 'buttonhole',and thread the sternum strap thru the paracord loop.That was the way I learned it,I just got crazy with the sewing machine one day.
BulletcatchR