SOURCE USMC Tactical 3L Feature/Benefit Chart.
A reference for creating a Military hydration system specification.

Carrier Features
1000D Fabric
Maximum durability with minimum weight
 
Fill handle and drag handle
Fill handle for easy refill with no spills Drag handle is strong enough to carry a wounded soldier

 
External access to the reservoir No need to remove reservoir for on-the-move refills
   
Elastic strap holders
Secures strap ends so they don't hang up or bounce around.
   
Back pocket to stow shoulder straps
Easy loading into larger packs, easy mounting on gear
   
Adjustable sternum strap
Stabilizes pack, adjusts to fit every soldier
   
Side release on shoulder straps
Quick release on emergency and for concealment in back pocket.
   
Left and right side tube exit
Adjusts for left and right handed soldiers
   
Fast reservoir replacement
Fast and easy removal and replacement when on-the move
   
Ergonomic Design
Keep water as close as possible to soldier's center of gravity
   
QCA™ attachment system
Fast, secure attachment to packs and tactical vests with no additional hardware required.
   
Vertical Zipper
Quick access to bladder/drinking tube for fitting in line filtration.
   
Adjustable Shoulder straps
Adjustable to fit different sized soldiers, can be tucked away for insertion in larger packs.

 

Drinking System Features
Coextruded polyethylene reservoir withGlass-Like™ inner layer
Taste free water from first to last sip even after weeks of storage. Drastically reduced cleaning and maintenance
 
Grunge-Guard™ Anti-Microbial technology
Incorporated in both tube and reservoir. Inhibits bacteria growth for the life of the system. Source pioneered this technology and it's been proven in the field for over 4 years.

 
FDA certification
All components in contact with drinking water are FDA approved
   
Co extruded tube with Glass-Like™ inner layer
Water is taste and odor free from first to last sip
   
UV Block woven tube insulation
Keeps water cool from first to last zip. Less bulky than neoprene covers
   
Patented Angled Storm-Valve™ with integrated shutoff.
High flow, easier to drink from when breathing heavily, easily operated, positive shut-off during transport, extremely durable
   
Dirt-Shield™ protective valve cover
Keep mouthpiece free of dirt and protected during transport
   
Angled Valve
Allows tube to be shortened by 25 cms so there's less excess to bounce around when on-the-move
   
Valve mouth orientation
360 degree adjustability for maximum comfort in the mouth
   
Patented Widepac™ closure
Easier cleaning, faster draining/drying, more convenient ice insertion, and airtight seal
   
N/C Fill port
Compatible with the most popular commercial water filters, low profile, generous width for easy ice insertion, 270 degree turn to seal for one hand operation even with gloves, seals airtight
   
Quick connect CPC hose fitting
Allows hose to be disconnected with the push of a button. Seals tight, allowing reservoir to be removed and refilled without rerouting hoses.