UNDERSTANDING

BULLET RESISTANT FRAMES

Visit us at tssbulletproof.com

170 National Park Dr., Fowlerville, MI 48836

800.513.1468 | info@tssbulletproof.com
THE IMPORTANCE OF BULLET RESISTANT FRAMES
Bullet resistant frames play two very important roles in your bullet proof barrier system:

1. They support the bullet proof glass, which is extremely heavy.

2. They protect the spaces in between your ballistic doors, windows, and the rest of
your barrier system.

Bullet Resistant Frame Ratings

Like bullet proof glass, bullet proof frames also come in configurations with UL protection ratings certified
by the Underwriters Laboratories. Rated frames (in level 3, 4, or 5) may be incorporated into:

A. Traditional framing systems that lock the glass in place to an added channel spacer; or

B. Voice-around systems that allow for natural voice transmission.

Common uses for rated frames:

• Municipalities

• Government facilities

• Schools

• Ticket Windows

• Financial institutions

• Projects with Level 3 Polycarbonate Glass

• Level 3 and above Glass-Clad Polycarbonate

tssbulletproof.com | 800.513.1468 UNDERSTANDING BULLET RESISTANT FRAMES 2

CHOOSING YOUR BULLET RESISTANT FRAME
Here is an at-a-glance comparison for the three types of bullet resistant frames we offer:

ALUMINUM
HOLLOW METAL STEEL

Best Used Setting Best Used Setting

Best Used Setting
Industrial settings
or where hollow metal Banks
already exists Most
environments
UL Rating UL Rating

UL Rating
Not Rated Not Rated
1-5
Cost Cost

Cost
$$$ $$$$
$$

Consider cost, existing elements, and your building’s decor when selecting your frames.

tssbulletproof.com | 800.513.1468 UNDERSTANDING BULLET RESISTANT FRAMES 3

TYPES OF BULLET RESISTANT FRAMES

Aluminum Frames
By far, aluminum frames are our most popular option.
They offer a clean, professional look at a lower price point than
other framing options, while still maintaining a high UL rating.

Each frame undergoes rigorous independent testing and is

made from proprietary aluminum dies to provide rated protection
from all handguns.

Cosmetic options include powder coating (clear, anodized,

or dark bronze), which is useful when matching existing
interior design elements.

tssbulletproof.com | 800.513.1468 UNDERSTANDING BULLET RESISTANT FRAMES 4

TYPES OF BULLET RESISTANT FRAMES

Hollow Metal Frames

Hollow metal frames, which provide a more institutional
look, come prime painted, and will need to be painted
after installation.

Most customers who choose this type of frame do

so because it matches the existing aesthetic of the
environment. Because it’s nearly impossible to pack
the channel opening, channels for hollow metal framing
systems are not UL rated.

Steel Frames
Like hollow metal, stainless steel frames require
customized fabrication and are not UL rated.

Stainless steel frames provide a more polished, professional

look and are typically favored by the banking industry.

tssbulletproof.com | 800.513.1468 UNDERSTANDING BULLET RESISTANT FRAMES 5