I could be mistaken, but as I understand it, the courses at Garland are operational, but they're not operating them currently. They don't have the card loading system up and running yet. I shot there very regularly prior to the fire, and I'm looking forward to them getting back to business...
I can't provide any info as far as weight comparisons, but I bought the MIRA lvl 4 plates. I was being really cheap, and I really liked the impact ratings compared to the equivalent Hesco. They're thick though. After reading up on MIRA, they seem to be a pretty quality driven company.
I just got my Blue Alpha belt in today. I'm still waiting on my holsters to come in. I ordered multiple for different pistols I run. This rig is going to have to serve double duty. I do a little bit of competition and want to expand on that and get a lot of training in with...