I know that lore wise the power armor was in the prototype stage (and some how can’t wear a messenger bag!), but there is no reason good ol’ @ can’t make modifications with items that already exist in game. We can install bionics to ourselves why not our equipment, or at least install something to it? Like gun-mods, or for more balancing make it an extra encumbering wearable item
Here is an example
Powered Armor Mounted Turret*
the skill requirements, tools, and components would be something like this:
Skill 1: Mechanics 7
Skill 2: Electronics 8
Skill 3: Computers 5
Skill 4: Firearms 4
Tool 1: screwdriver or integrated toolset
Tool 2: soldering iron (16) or integrated toolset (1)
Tool 3: hacksaw or integrated toolset
Tool 4: welding goggles
Tool 5: welder (40) or makeshift welder (40) or integrated toolset (4)
Comp. 1: Inactive Turret
Comp. 2: 8x copper wire
Comp. 3: Power Converter
Comp. 4: 2x pipe
Comp. 5: amplifier circuit
Comp. 6: transponder circuit
Comp. 7: 4x scrap metal
Comp. 8: 2x double magazine
How it would work:
Basically a wearable version of a friendly Turret, however you do not directly control it (I’m not against controlling it, but I’m sure others are). It behaves the same way . Since it draws from the same power supply (UPS, A-UPS, PA Interface) so if that power supply runs out it will stop functioning, and it becomes deadweight (probably 2.827 kg or 6+ pounds of deadweight). Naturally this can be toggled to on or off. It would have a ammunition capacity of 200, or more, and has the same 9mm caliber as the Turret. However reloading requires this device to be powered down and detached.
Additionally like most pieces of clothing, including the power armor, it can be broken if struck one too many times. If such were to happen it would do what other turrets do when they break in this game: Explode
*entirely inspired by War Machine