Bullet-Resistant Glass
GCP - No Spall
Thompson Innovative Glass manufactures several Bullet-Resistant (also sometimes called Bullet Proof) options under its Defender® line.
- UL Levels
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 8
No-Spall, Bullet-Resistant Glass
This no spall bullet-resistant laminate is a combination of glass and polycarbonate layers bonded together with adhesive interlayers, offering the best of both materials.
The glass layer provides structural integrity and rigidity, while the polycarbonate layer absorbs the impact energy, and the polycarbonate layer on the interior surface (or protection side) of the unit that prevents spalling.
The benefits of Glass Clad Polycarbonate laminates include excellent bullet-resistance, no spalling, and improves resistance to forced entry. It is commonly employed in applications like banks, police stations, government buildings, and military installations.
Make-Up Features
Glass
The glass layers ensure structural integrity and rigidity. On impact, glass flattens bullets, reducing velocity and dispersing energy. Thickness, treatment, and layering vary by product. Options include tints, reflective, bird-friendly, low-e, and low iron.
Polycarbonate
Thompson utilizes an optical grade Polycarbonate, a thermoplastic material known for its clarity, durability and strength. They are responsible for absorbing and dispersing the energy of the bullet or projectile upon impact. Compared to a regular glass product, Polycarbonate’s strength makes it less likely to shatter upon impact which is an essential factor in the performance of the glass and the application. The exposed polycarbonate layers have an abrasion resistant coating on its surface for the purpose of providing excellent abrasion and chemical resistance. Take special care and follow specific instructions when cleaning polycarbonate as permanent damage may result if cleaned incorrectly.
Adhesive Interlayers
Thompson uses high optical grade thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to bond multiple layers of acrylic and/or polycarbonate. The interlayers act as the “glue” that hold the various layers together. TPU is known for its adhesion, flexibility and ability to absorb impact energy, making it appropriate for use in bullet-resistant glass constructions.
Ballistic Protection
The below chart refers to how much ballistic protection the Thompson Innovative Glass product provides, based on standardized testing. In the U.S., bullet-resistant glass is rated by UL 752 the standard for bullet-resistant materials set by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
It defines testing methods and performance criteria for bullet-resistant glass, doors, panels, and other protective materials. and classified into a range of levels.
.357 Magnum Pistol 
.357 Magnum Jacketed Lead Soft Point 
.44 Magnum Pistol 
.44 Magnum Lead Semi-Wadcutter 
.30 Caliber Rifle 
.30 Caliber Lead Core Soft Point 
7.62 Rifle 
7.62mm Full Metal Copper Jacket Military Ball Get Expert Guidance on Defender Glass
Check with the Thompson Innovative Glass team for more details and options from our Defender line to find the right one for you and your application.
Options
Tints
Available tints include a variety of grays, bronzes, blues, and greens. Contact Thompson Innovative Glass for more specific details and samples.
Reflective
Thompson Innovative Glass carries reflective glass with varying performance & reflectance. Contact us for more specific details and samples.
Bird-Friendly
Thompson Innovative Glass offers a full range of bird-friendly glass options.
Low-E
We have Low-emissivity glass with varying performance. We can find the right one for you. Contact us for more specific details and samples.
Low Iron
Thompson Innovative Glass offers “low iron” glass, which has reduced iron content for a lighter blue edge and higher light transmission. Contact us for more specific details and samples.
Applications-Security and Protection
Bullet-resistant and forced entry glass are critical components in protecting people and property across a wide range of high-risk environments. These specialized glazing solutions are trusted wherever enhanced security and peace of mind are essential, from public institutions to private facilities. Common applications include:
Government Structures
Federal and municipal buildings require protective glazing that supports security mandates while upholding civic transparency and design intent.
Guard Shacks
Guard booths require bullet-resistant and forced-entry glazing to ensure the safety of personnel monitoring entry and exit points.
Police Stations
Bullet-resistant glazing improves the safety of officers and administrative staff at police stations, providing a barrier against potential attacks and creating a safe environment.
Transportation Hubs
Bus, train, and transit stations need high-performance glass for public safety, blast mitigation, and clear communication in high-traffic zones.
Hospitals
Healthcare environments use safety and security glazing in patient rooms, lobbies, and sensitive areas to enhance protection and hygiene without sacrificing light or openness.
Financial Institutions
Banks and financial offices rely on secure glazing for transaction windows, teller areas, and entry points to protect employees and assets.
Maximum Size
Maximum size for GCP – No Spall
72″ x 130″
Your Guide to Bullet-Resistant Glass Options
Discover all bird-friendly glass options in our brochure.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bullet-Resistant Glass
What is bullet-resistant glass?
Bullet-resistant glass, also known as ballistic glass, is a type of reinforced glass designed to resist penetration from bullets. It typically consists of multiple layers of glass and polycarbonate materials, laminated together to absorb and disperse the impact of projectiles.
How does bullet-resistant glass work?
When a bullet strikes the glass, the outer layer absorbs the impact, while the inner layers dissipate the energy and prevent penetration. The polycarbonate layers add flexibility and strength, ensuring the glass remains intact even after repeated hits.
Is bullet-resistant glass completely bulletproof?
No material is entirely bulletproof. Bullet-resistant glass is designed to slow or stop specific calibers of bullets based on its rating. Over time or with repeated impacts, even high-rated glass may fail.
What are the levels of bullet-resistance?
Bullet-resistant glass is rated according to standards such as the UL 752 in the U.S. or EN 1063 in Europe. These levels indicate the glass's ability to withstand specific types of firearms and ammunition.
Where is bullet-resistant glass typically used?
- Banks and financial institutions
- Government buildings
- Schools and universities
- Retail stores (especially jewelry or high-value merchandise)
- Private vehicles and armored transport
- Security booths and checkpoints
Can bullet-resistant glass be installed in existing structures?
Yes, retrofitting is possible. Bullet-resistant glass can be customized and installed in existing frames, though structural modifications may be required for proper support.
Does bullet-resistant glass look different from standard glass?
Modern bullet-resistant glass is designed to look clear and similar to standard glass. Some thicker or higher-rated options may have a slight tint due to the layers of materials.
How thick is bullet-resistant glass?
Thickness depends on the level of protection, ranging from 0.25 inches (Level 1) to over 2 inches (Level 8). Higher levels of protection generally require thicker glass.
Can bullet-resistant glass be combined with other features?
Yes, bullet-resistant glass can include additional properties like:
- Energy efficiency with low-E coatings.
- Fire resistance for enhanced safety.
- Privacy options like tinting or one-way visibility.
And now via Thompson Innovative Glass- we offer Bird Friendly properties with Bullet Resistant Glass.
How much does bulletproof glass cost?
Bullet-resistant glass typically costs 100% to 400% more than standard commercial glazing.
Pricing varies based on:
- Threat level (UL 752 Level 1–8)
- Glass type (all-glass, laminated, or glass-clad polycarbonate)
- Size, thickness, and installation needs
While more expensive, it provides vital protection in schools, government buildings, banks, and other high-risk environments.
What is bulletproof glass made from?
Bullet-resistant glass is made from multiple layers of glass and plastic (polycarbonate or PVB interlayers). These layers absorb and slow down bullets, dispersing the energy and preventing penetration.
How is bulletproof glass made?
At our state-of-the-art facility in Jenison, MI, bullet-resistant glass is fabricated by:
- Tempering or heat-strengthening the outer glass for durability.
- Layering sheets of glass and plastic.
- Laminating them under heat and pressure in an autoclave.
- Precision bonding for optical clarity and resistance.
The result is a strong, transparent barrier that can stop bullets while still functioning as a window.
How thick is bulletproof glass?
The thickness varies by protection level:
- Level 1 (handguns): ~1-1/8" thick
- Level 3 (high-powered handguns): ~1-1/4" thick
- Level 8 (rifles): can exceed 2"+
We offer several options depending on the security need, including all-glass and hybrid glass-polycarbonate constructions.