Many people have a lack of understanding regarding the terms bulletproof, ballistic, and bullet resistant. The confusion expands particularly when discussing glass and how much protection you can you have against potential threats. One major question that is frequently asked is if ballistic glass is the same as bulletproof glass. We are here to give you the facts and clear up any uncertainty. This article will explain the difference between bulletproof glass and ballistic glass, what it means for glass to be ballistic, and what makes high level glass protection a necessity for your facility.

Ballistic Vs Bulletproof

First things first, there’s no such thing as 100% bulletproof glass. Eventually, any layer of glass can shatter from repeated strikes regardless of protection level. Portrayals of bulletproof glass that you may have seen in movies where bullets appear to bounce off with little to no destruction of the glass is inaccurate. You can watch this demonstration of us testing ballistic glass for a much more realistic depiction of what happens when it is struck by repeated gunshots. Ballistic glass or bullet resistant glass are the proper terms for any kind of glass that is designed to stop bullets.

What Makes Glass Ballistic?

Ballistic glass is a term widely used in the industry that refers to a category of security glass tested and proven to be resistant of contact from firearm projectiles. This kind of glass can either be made from acrylic or polycarbonate. Acrylic is cheaper and easier to machine and polish than polycarbonate but also more likely to chip and crack after impact. Polycarbonate is stronger, more flexible, and can be exposed to high temperatures. Ballistic glass made from polycarbonate is made in layers that add up to different levels of thickness.

The level of protection given by ballistic glass will depend on thickness along with other various factors such as weight and durability as well as the velocity, caliber, and weight of the firearm. Ballistic glass is rated by Underwriters Laboratory and The National Institute of Justice. Levels range from 1 to 8 for UL ratings and Type I through Type IV for NIJ ratings. Some facilities like banks and jewelers may only require level 2 ballistic glass that can stop three .357 magnum soft points traveling at 1,250 feet per second. Other facilities like military installations may use level 8, the highest level of protection, able to stop at least five shots from a 7.62 mm rifle. You can learn more about ballistic glass protection levels here.

Why Is Ballistic Glass Necessary?

Ballistic glass is necessary to protect against outside threats and attacks including forced entries, active shooters, stray bullets, and riots. Although glass may not be able to be 100% bulletproof, ballistic glass is a huge difference from non-ballistic glass when the threat of a firearm is involved. Ballistic glass doesn’t immediately shatter, even after repeated impact. Multiple levels of protection can be provided so you only have to spend money on the required amount of protection for your facility.

Non-ballistic glass will shatter immediately upon impact from a bullet. Any bullet will pass through non-ballistic glass giving you much less time to react or conduct safety or self-defense procedures. Delayed entry provided by ballistic glass gives those who are trapped inside the necessary time to respond to the threat by creating barricades to safe areas, contacting the authorities, or finding safe exit points. Religious facilities, detention centers, schools, government centers, and retail stores are some prime examples of facilities that would benefit greatly from ballistic windows.

Contact Kontek Industries

When you need ballistic-rated glass to protect employees and sensitive areas, Kontek Industries can provide you with the type of protection you need. We design and supply ballistic glass and window systems with protection for UL 752 and NIJ standards up to and including .50 caliber armor piercing projectiles. Our ballistic glass will help Improve the safety and survivability of people within the buildings and structures that you look to protect with bullet resistant polycarbonate glass. We also provide a variety of window tint options and decorative window furnishings. Contact the office at Kontek Industries today to discuss your needs.