I am wondering the same thing. I know I don't want a full one. I love the open air feeling. But curious as to what the 1/2 difference makes.

 

The 1/2 windshields do actually make a difference. They divert the air to just above my eyes. That said, I wouldn't trade my full glass windshield for anything.

 

I have had both. I had a 1/2 and when my RZR friends asked why I was not using it anymore I told them when it gets dusty/dirty it restricts my view and is good for nothing, wasn't long and they tossed theirs.
The full windshield does keep a lot of cold air off you but I found that it caused exhaust fumes and dust to cycle back into the cab. Bought a inexpensive Tusk rear shield which solved it.

 

The 1/2 windshield has a lip at the top that directs the air over the top of your head.

And when it gets dusty or muddy you can look over the top.

Here in CA rain is not an issue

 

When we bought our used rzr it came with a half windshield. It got unbearably hot! We tried some heat shielding etc without much improvement. Then we took the windshield off and it was a relief. Others here have said that if your rzr doesn't have a back windshield a half windshield will draw in the dust and heat. I have kept the shield off for the almost 8 months we have owned the machine but am thinking of putting it back on again as the temps are down now. We did try putting it on a cooler day about six weeks ago but it got so hot on the ride we took it off durring the ride and wrapped it up in some extra coats, strapped it to the bike and finished the ride. It got so hot with it that my wife who loves to ride refused to ride again untill we figured out something cooler. I am tempted to buy one from someone here that kicks out on the bottom for air venting but wonder if I would have to close the back behind us too? This thing literally burned my wife's butt!

 

Interesting on the heat. Its the cooler months coming now that has me interested in keeping the cold wind off. I'm pretty sure I'd rather be open front and top when the weather is nice. I did order a top today though.

 

the plastic half and full windshield is like a magnet for dust and dirt
get a full glass one much better to clean as well

 

Really like the full windshield when its cold and to keep the wind off your face but when temps heat up and it gets dusty it gets replaced with a half windshield.

 

I just purchased a full windshield and rear panel from EMP for my xp1k, and I was wondering if it's okay to trailer with them on? I'm worried that they may fly off while driving on the highway. I do have the option to take them off as both shields have the fast straps on them, but they are still somewhat cumbersome when taking on and off.

 

You wont be driving the truck much faster than the rzr sometimes.