Abstract: A method of adapting a ballistic panel carrier garment as disclosed to receive and to support selected of a plurality of ballistic panels of varying size and configuration in a manner to position the selected panels without shifting with respect to the vital body parts of the garment wearer. The ballistic panel carrier garment includes a front portion and a back portion. The back portion has a back receptacle attached thereto having an opening for receiving a back ballistic panel into a back pocket formed thereby. The front portion has a front receptacle attached thereto having an opening for receiving a front ballistic panel into a front pocket formed thereby. Each of the front and back portions has a reference point defining the extent of ballistic protection.