Unless you're planning to get shot at by high powered rifles with armor piercing bullets just get lvl 3 ceramic. I started with lvl 4 plates including side plates but after a few carbine courses I ditched the side plates and bought a pair of Lvl 3, no regrets. More than enough protect for a civilian and it is easy to put on in a hurry and doesn't kill my shoulders and spine when I train.

Yes, they are.



4.5lbs per plate and they take a lot of hits before failing.