ww2reenactor

Hi guys and gals, my name is EJ and I am interested in stormtrooper armor to buy. My question is how thick is the plastic? Is it flimsy where its like "plastic plate from the picnics" or is it thick like PVC pipe? Im not very familiar with the ABS and HIPS, my end goal is something close to ready to wear and all i have to do is paint it or completely assembled. thanks for any help!