Understanding the Terminology

Security professionals consistently favor the term 'bullet-resistant' over' bulletproof' because it reflects an important reality about security products that provide protection from bullets. While “bulletproof” is commonly used in casual conversation and search engine queries, it's a misnomer. In its actual dictionary definition, that term indicates complete immunity to bullets—a level of performance that no tested product can guarantee^{1 2.} In truth, no window or door material can provide protection in all circumstances. If a powerful enough weapon is used or rounds repeatedly strike the same location, any window or door can eventually be breached.

Many industries use the term "water-resistant" instead of "waterproof" to indicate that their products can withstand water to varying degrees, but are not completely impervious. Similarly, experts in the physical security industry use the term "bullet-resistant" to convey protection, but with reasonable limitations.

By understanding what the preferred term "bullet-resistant" means, consumers can better appreciate the inherent limitations that must exist in these types of security products.

• In short, “bulletproof” is an impossible guarantee, whereas “bullet-resistant” enables a realistic confidence based on testing against measurable threats.
• Because these are safety products, it is important not to convey invincibility and use terminology that accurately explains the material and its limitations.

Certification Does Matter

Bullet-resistant products are rigorously tested to demonstrate that the material withstands bullet impacts without penetration, within specified limits. Standards like UL 752 in the U.S. or EN 1063/1522 in Europe provide objective proof that a product performs as claimed. Legitimate vendors clearly display certifications on their websites, product literature, and physical labels.

• Since there has to be a limitation to protection, bullet-resistant materials should always be accompanied by a notation of the threat level they will protect against (such as Level 1, Level2, etc., for the UL 752 standard).  These levels are most often correlated to a specific caliber of weapon.  
• However, factors such as projectile velocity, round count, and shot grouping can compromise materials, even if they otherwise meet their certified protection level.
• Therefore, it is essential to understand the limitations of the certification test, determine the level that matches or exceeds the expected threat, and tailor the protection to the specific need. Otherwise, there is a risk of selecting a material that is excessive (resulting in unnecessary expense) or, worse, inadequate when the protection is needed.
• Any company with product certifications are required to make the certification highly visible on its website, product literature, and product labels.

‍Obtaining independent certification to a standard like UL is easily accomplished as long as the material meets the requirements.  A lack of certification for a safety product should raise major concerns about the validity of the claims.

Is it a choice between bulletproof and bullet-resistant solutions?

For those new to security products, it’s common to search for terms like “bulletproof windows” or “bulletproof doors,” and some manufacturers adopt this terminology in order to “speak the same language.” However, finding two similar materials, one labeled as bulletproof and the other as bullet-resistant, does not mean that the bulletproof material is stronger or better. It simply means that the manufacturer wanted to use terms more familiar to the public. BBP won’t follow that path; overstating the performance of a life-safety product is not just misleading—it’s irresponsible.

Ballistic Barrier Products (BBP) intentionally uses the term "bullet-resistant" because it represents independently tested performance of its solutions. Its shades and door shields carry UL 752certification for handgun resistance, ensuring they can be trusted to perform as claimed. By using precise language and backing it with a third-party certification, BBP, along with many other companies like it, provides consumers with confidence in product performance. It not only builds trust but also highlights BBP’s commitment to integrity and expertise in the field of protective solutions.

‍¹ Bulletproof: impenetrable to bullets. Merriam-Webster Dictionary

² Bulletproof: preventing bullets from passing through. Cambridge Dictionary