Bullet-Resistant Windows and Ballistic Glass
GSS Doors supplies custom bullet-resistant windows and ballistic glazing for safe rooms, secure residences, commercial buildings, government facilities, and other high-security applications. Multi-layer glass-clad polycarbonate assemblies provide natural light and visibility while resisting specific handgun or rifle threats based on the protection level selected.
Comparison Table: PAS 003 L/S vs PAS 008 L/S
| Specification | PAS 003 L/S | PAS 008 L/S |
|---|---|---|
| Ballistic Rating | UL 752 Level 3 (.44 Magnum) | UL 752 Level 8 (7.62 NATO) |
| NIJ Rating | H.P. White TP-0500.01 Level I (Forced Entry) | NIJ Level IV |
| Overall Thickness | 1 3/16" | 2 1/2" |
| Construction | Glass + Polycarbonate + Urethane (7 layers) | Glass + Polycarbonate + Urethane (13 layers) |
| Light Transmission | 75% | 65% |
| Weight | 13.5 lbs/sq ft | 29.4 lbs/sq ft |
| Typical Use | Residential safe rooms, offices, light commercial | Military, banks, government buildings, fortified homes |
| Customization Options | Tinted (Gray, Bronze, Green, Blue), Reflective, One-Way Mirror, Frosted, Low-E, Wire Glass, Insulated Units | |
Ballistic Glass Window Options
PAS 003 L/S – 1 3/16"
- Ballistic Rating: UL 752 Level 3 – Stops .44 Magnum handgun rounds
- Forced Entry: H.P. White TP-0500.01 Level I
- Construction: Multi-layer laminated glass and polycarbonate with urethane interlayers
- Light Transmission: 75%
- Weight: 13.5 lbs/sq ft
PAS 008 L/S – 2 1/2"
- Ballistic Rating: UL 752 Level 8 – Protects against 7.62mm rifle rounds
- NIJ Rating: Level 4
- Construction: 13-layer glass and polycarbonate assembly with urethane between each layer
- Light Transmission: 65%
- Weight: 29.4 lbs/sq ft
All glazing systems conform to the following standards:
- ANSI Z97.1 – Safety Glazing Materials for Buildings
- ASTM C1036 – Standard for Flat Glass
- ASTM C1172 – Laminated Architectural Flat Glass
- ASTM C1349 – Dimensional Tolerance
Customization Options
Our bullet-resistant windows are available with a wide range of options:
- Tinted Glass: Gray, Bronze, Green, Blue
- Reflective Glass or One-Way Mirror
- Frosted (Translucent White Interlayer)
- Wire Glass, Insulated Units, and Low-E Coatings
Note: Some customizations may not be available in every thickness.
Ballistic protection applies to the specified glazing product. The supporting frame, anchorage, surrounding wall construction, and installation details must be selected to support the intended threat level. GSS Doors will confirm whether a quote includes glazing only or a complete framed assembly.
How Bullet-Resistant Windows Work
When struck, the glass layers absorb and distribute impact energy while the polycarbonate back layer helps prevent penetration and capture glass fragments. Performance is limited to the ammunition, velocity, shot pattern, and number of impacts covered by the applicable test rating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between Level 3 and Level 8 protection?
PAS 003 L/S provides UL 752 Level 3 handgun-threat protection. PAS 008 L/S provides UL 752 Level 8 rifle-threat protection and is also identified by the manufacturer as NIJ Level IV. Final product selection should be based on the project’s identified threat and required test standard.
Are these windows suitable for residential use?
Yes, both models can be installed in high-end homes, panic rooms, or safe areas needing ballistic protection. They can be integrated into new construction or retrofit projects.
Are bullet-resistant windows completely bulletproof?
No glazing system is completely “bulletproof.” Bullet-resistant windows are engineered to stop specific threats based on recognized standards such as UL 752.
Do the windows still allow natural light?
Absolutely. PAS 003 allows 75% light transmission and PAS 008 allows 65%, balancing visibility with superior ballistic protection.
Can you match custom sizes and finishes?
Yes. Our bullet-resistant windows are custom manufactured and can include various tints, mirrored options, and special coatings like Low-E.
