Bullet-resistant polycarbonate and ballistic glass both stop bullets, but they work very differently. RIVER PEOPLE PLEXIGLASS (RP) explains the trade-offs for banks, jewelry stores and armored vehicles.
Bullet-Resistant Polycarbonate
- Solid polycarbonate sheet, 8-100mm thick
- Stores energy by deforming rather than shattering
- Lighter than glass (half the weight)
- Will crack and spall on impact but holds together
- Can be cut, drilled and installed on site
- Lower cost than laminated ballistic glass
- Surface scratches easily – needs hard coating for high-traffic areas
Laminated Ballistic Glass
- Multiple layers of glass and PVB interlayer
- Bullet penetrates outer layers but is trapped by inner layers
- Heavier and bulkier
- Superior scratch resistance
- Higher cost
- Visible delamination over time
Which Should You Choose?
- Banks, teller windows: Polycarbonate (cost-effective, lighter)
- Jewelry displays: Polycarbonate with hard coat (scratch-resistant)
- Armored vehicles: Polycarbonate (weight critical)
- Permanent building facade: Ballistic glass (scratch resistance)
- Temporary or mobile: Polycarbonate (easier to install)
Tell us your security requirement – we will recommend the right ballistic glazing.