What size are your jack stands?

I have a pair of Craftsman 6 tons and another pair of ACDelco 6 tons. I prefer the ACDelco stand body better because they have flat pieces on the bottom corners to better distribute pressure. However, I prefer the broader saddles/vertical supports on the craftsman stands. But they both work fine. I used them on my GMC sierra 1/2 ton and now on my F250 powerstroke diesel. I also have some smaller ones too (don't remember their rating), which I use for work on the Honda Civic. It sits so low, I can't get my 6 ton stands underneath it. I use an Allied 3 1/2 ton floor jack to lift. I bought it at Sam's Club in 1999. Bought the Craftsman jackstands around the same time. While a 6 ton rating isn't required for either of these trucks, it gives me a little more comfort that I'm not pushing their rating limit, and also, you tend to get a little more working height out of a higher rated stand. It's not that much more money for them. Kind of wish now that I'd bought some better brands like Hein Werner years ago, but I haven't been crushed yet.

Edit to add: For your question 2, if you use a floor jack you can often lift from the center front or back of the vehicle to avoid those pinch weld points on the sides. I know the Honda Civic has a place to jack on a front crossmember and likewise at the backside. I'd double check your owners manual for other lift points. Hope that helps.