I was finally able to figure out the straps and agree with Jim that the buckles don't seem to make sense. The easiest way to get it on or off is like a jacket,you unzip the unit in front (between the two pouches) and slide your arms out of the straps.

I had to singe off some loose threads but otherwise it seems well made. The curved portion of the unit at the back of the pouches allows for free swinging of my arms and it rides high enough I can reach into my pants pockets or belt mounted phone holster.

Still need to load it up and walk around a bit but so far so good.