When investing in a bullet resistant guard shack, one of the most important decisions is selecting the correct UL 752 ballistic protection level. These levels define how well the structure resists different types of firearms. Choosing the wrong level could leave your security personnel vulnerable, while overbuilding could add unnecessary cost.
Below is a breakdown of the most common UL 752 levels and what they mean for your security needs.
UL 752 Ballistic Protection Levels Explained
- Level 1
- Stops: 9mm handgun rounds (Full Metal Jacket)
- Best for: Low-threat environments where the main risk is small handguns.
- Stops: 9mm handgun rounds (Full Metal Jacket)
- Level 2
- Stops: .357 Magnum rounds
- Best for: Facilities facing moderate handgun threats.
- Stops: .357 Magnum rounds
- Level 3
- Stops: .44 Magnum rounds
- Best for: Higher-risk areas with potential for powerful handgun attacks.
- Stops: .44 Magnum rounds
- Level 4
- Stops: .30 caliber rifle rounds (.30-06)
- Best for: Locations with rifle threats.
- Stops: .30 caliber rifle rounds (.30-06)
- Level 5
- Stops: 7.62mm rifle rounds (.308 caliber)
- Best for: High-security sites where rifle fire is a concern.
- Stops: 7.62mm rifle rounds (.308 caliber)
- Level 6
- Stops: Multiple 9mm rounds at higher velocity
- Best for: Environments where repeated handgun fire is expected.
- Stops: Multiple 9mm rounds at higher velocity
- Level 7
- Stops: 5.56mm rifle rounds (.223 caliber)
- Best for: Guard shacks at critical infrastructure sites or near tactical threats.
- Stops: 5.56mm rifle rounds (.223 caliber)
- Level 8
- Stops: 7.62mm rifle rounds (.308 caliber) with multiple shots
- Best for: Maximum protection against sustained rifle fire.
- Stops: 7.62mm rifle rounds (.308 caliber) with multiple shots
- Level 9
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- Stops.30-06 Caliber Rifle, Steel Core, Lead Point Filler, FMJ (APM2)
- Level 10
- Stops .50 Caliber Rifle, Lead Core FMCJ Military Ball (M2)
How to Decide Which UL Level You Need
- Assess the Likely Threats
- If your location is only at risk of basic handgun fire, Level 1–3 may be sufficient.
- If rifles are a realistic risk, you’ll need at least Level 4.
- If your location is only at risk of basic handgun fire, Level 1–3 may be sufficient.
- Consider the Environment
- Corporate campuses and private facilities often choose handgun protection (Levels 1–3).
- Military bases, ports, and critical infrastructure lean toward rifle protection (Levels 4–8).
- Corporate campuses and private facilities often choose handgun protection (Levels 1–3).
- Balance Security and Cost
- Higher levels mean heavier, more expensive materials.
- It’s important to match your budget to actual risk.
- Higher levels mean heavier, more expensive materials.
Practical Advice Before You Buy
When buying a bulletproof guard shack, the right UL 752 level depends on the threats your security team may face. Handgun protection (Levels 1–3) may be enough for many businesses, while rifle protection (Levels 4–8) is necessary for high-risk environments.
Consulting with a manufacturer or security expert will ensure you get the right level of protection without overspending.