Armor classes
Armor is rated from Class 2 to 6. The higher the class, the stronger the rounds it stops — but the heavier and pricier it is.
For beginners, Class 4 is a good target; PACA (Class 3) is very cheap but won't survive high-pen ammo. Move to Class 5 (e.g. 6B13) when your budget allows.
Helmet: protect your head
Headshots are usually instant death, so a helmet is a strong investment. The SSh-68 or ULACH are cheap and effective starters; helmets with a face shield add protection against shrapnel and low-pen rounds.
Match your helmet + armor combo to the raid's risk. Don't wear an expensive helmet on a Scav run; don't go helmetless on an expensive PMC raid.
Rig and backpack
Without a rig you can't carry spare mags and meds; get at least a 4-slot rig. Some rigs also include armor (armored rig) and save space.
Your backpack sets your loot capacity. Use a small bag for fast, light raids and a big bag for loot runs. You lose the bag on death, so keep valuables in your secure container.
PRO TIP
The "fit to fight" rule: your gear should be worth only as much as you can afford to lose that raid. Don't kit up so expensively that fear paralyzes you.
WARNING
Armor takes damage and loses max durability each repair. Buying new cheap armor is often smarter than repairing it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which armor class is enough to start?
Class 4 is a solid start. PACA (Class 3) is very cheap but weak. Moving to Class 5 as budget grows is sensible.
Is wearing a helmet mandatory?
Not mandatory, but recommended. Without one, a single headshot is death. At least wear a cheap SSh-68 or ULACH.