Security levels for bullet-resistant systems have been established by UL (Underwriters Laboratory), the primary testing organization for materials used in these systems. Each level has been tested and found effective at stopping certain types of projectiles, ones most typically employed during an armed robbery. While ratings extend to Level 8, the needs of most banks, credit unions, and convenience stores are well covered in Levels 1-3.
| UL Rating | Weapon | Ammunition | Weight | Velocity | Shots | Typical Uses | Ballistic Material Thickness |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 9mm Pistol | 9mm Full Metal Copper Jacket with Lead Core | 124 grains 8 grams | 1175 FPS to 1293 FPS | 3 | Gas stations Banks Pharmacies Retail Shops | L1 Glazing: 0.5”–1.25” L1 Fiberglass: 0.25” Armor Plate: 0.25” |
| 2 | .357 Magnum Pistol | .357 Magnum Jacketed Lead Soft Point | 158 grains 10.2 grams | 1250 FPS to 1375 FPS | 3 | Corporate Banks Financial Institutions | Glazing: 0.75”–1. 375” Fiberglass: 0.375” Armor Plate: 0.25” |
| 3 | .44 Magnum Pistol | .44 Magnum Lead Semi-Wadcutter Gas Checked | 240 grains 15.6 grams | 1350 FPS to 1485 FPS | 3 | Utilities Police Stations Government Facilities | Glazing: 1.25” Fiberglass: 0.5” Armor Plate: 0.25” |
| 4 | .30 Caliber Rifle | .30 Caliber Rifle Lead Core Soft Point | 180 grains 11.7 grams | 2540 FPS to 2794 FPS | 1 | Federal Government Military | Glazing: 1.5” Fiberglass: 1.375”” Armor Plate: 0.25” |
| 5 | 7.62mm Rifle | 7.62mm Rifle Lead Core Full Metal Copper Jacket Military Ball | 150 grains 9.7 grams | 2750 FPS to 3025 FPS | 1 | Federal Government Military | Glazing: 1.625” Fiberglass: 1.375” Armor Plate: 0.3125” |
| 6 | 9mm Submachine Gun | 9mm Full Metal Copper Jacket with Lead Core | 124 grains 8 grams | 1400 FPS to 1540 FPS | 5 | Federal Government Military | Glazing: 1.25” Fiberglass: 0.5” Armor Plate: 0.25” |
| 7 | 5.56mm Rifle | 5.56mm Rifle Full Metal Copper Jacket with Lead Core | 55 grains 3.56 grams | 3080 FPS to 3388 FPS | 5 | Federal Government Military | Glazing: 2. 1875” Fiberglass: 1.625” Armor Plate: 0.25” |
| 8 | 7.62mm Rifle | 7.62mm Rifle Lead Core Full Metal Copper Jacket Military Ball | 150 grains 9.7 grams | 2750 FPS to 3025 FPS | 5 | Federal Government Military | Glazing: 2.5” Fiberglass: 1.625” Armor Plate: 0.3125” |