UL 752 Ballistic Protection Levels
Understanding ballistic ratings for proper specification of bullet resistant doors
The UL 752 Standard for Bullet-Resisting Equipment is the primary benchmark for measuring ballistic door performance in North America. Developed by UL Solutions, this standard defines ten protection levels based on specific firearm calibers, velocities, and shot patterns. Understanding these levels ensures you specify the appropriate ballistic resistant door for your facility's threat profile.
Handgun Protection - Levels 1-3
Entry-level through moderate handgun protection designed to stop common pistol calibers. These levels are specified using a three-shot cluster pattern within a four-inch triangle. Level 1-3 ballistic resistant doors represent the most common specification for commercial facilities.
- Convenience stores
- Retail pharmacies
- Small banks
- Credit unions
- Banks
- Check cashing facilities
- Jewelry stores
- Pawn shops
- Financial institutions
- Corporate security
- Government offices
- Healthcare facilities
Note: Levels 1-3 are linear: a Level 3 door automatically meets Level 1 and 2 requirements.
Rifle Protection - Levels 4-8
High-powered rifle protection for facilities facing elevated threat profiles. Unlike handgun levels, rifle ratings are NOT linear. A Level 8 door does not automatically meet Level 7 requirements because each level tests different ammunition types.
- Government buildings
- Courthouses
- Police stations
- Embassies
- Military installations
- Federal facilities
- High-security embassies
- Critical infrastructure
- High-security government
- Defense contractors
- Intelligence facilities
- Military bases
- Ammunition depots
- Nuclear facilities
- Strategic assets
- Highest-security military
- Weapons storage
- Sensitive govt installations
Important: Levels 4-8 are NOT linear. Each level must be specified individually based on the specific threat ammunition.
Special Military - Levels 9-10
Specialized military-grade protection primarily reserved for defense and high-value government applications. These levels require specialized construction techniques and materials.
- Special military installations
- Strategic defense facilities
- Extreme military applications
- Specialized defense projects
Note: Levels 9-10 require specialized engineering and are quoted on a project basis.
Alternative Ballistic Standards
While UL 752 is the most common standard in North America, certain applications may require compliance with alternative testing protocols:
Primary specification for U.S. government and law enforcement applications.
Specifically for ballistic glazing in door vision panels. Complements UL 752 testing.
Required for export projects to European markets. Cross-reference available with UL 752.
Selecting the Right Ballistic Level
Conduct Threat Assessment
Work with security consultants to identify the most likely threat scenarios. Consider geographic location, facility type, and historical incident data.
Match Threat to Level
Levels 1-3 address common handgun threats. Levels 4-8 address rifle threats for government, military, and high-security facilities.
Consider Regulatory Requirements
Some facilities have mandated protection levels. Banks may require minimum Level 1-3, while government facilities often specify Level 4 or higher.
Account for Door Size and Location
Larger doors and primary entry points may warrant higher protection levels. Consider the exposure and criticality of each opening.
Ballistic Door Key Features
Engineering and construction details that deliver certified bullet resistant protection
UL 752 Tested and Certified
Every Euwoo ballistic resistant door undergoes independent testing at UL-accredited laboratories. Complete assemblies are subjected to specified ammunition at designated velocities with shots placed in triangular patterns. Certification labels accompany each unit.
- ■ Independent laboratory testing
- ■ Complete assembly certification (door, frame, glazing)
- ■ UL certification label on each unit
- ■ Test documentation for compliance records
Multi-Layer Ballistic Core
Proprietary multi-layer construction combines cold-rolled steel face sheets with internal armor plate positioned at critical zones. Ballistic fiberglass composite panels add protection while managing door weight. Progressive energy absorption design ensures structural integrity.
- ■ Cold-rolled steel face sheets (14-12 gauge typical)
- ■ Internal armor plate at critical zones
- ■ Ballistic fiberglass composite reinforcement
- ■ Progressive energy absorption design
Ballistic-Rated Frame System
A bullet resistant door is only as effective as its frame assembly. Our ballistic door systems include matched frame assemblies engineered to the same protection level as the door leaf. Frame profiles are designed for masonry, concrete, and steel stud construction.
- ■ Matched protection level with door leaf
- ■ Heavy-gauge steel frame construction
- ■ Filled core frame profiles
- ■ Reinforced anchor points
Bullet Resistant Glazing Options
Vision panels require specialized bullet resistant glazing matching the door's protection level. Our doors accommodate glazing systems tested to UL 752 and ASTM F1233 standards, from small vision lights to full-lite designs.
- ■ UL 752 and ASTM F1233 compliant glazing
- ■ Glass-clad polycarbonate construction
- ■ Ballistic-rated glazing frames
- ■ Multiple vision panel configurations
Reinforced Edge & Hinge Protection
Door edges and hinge locations require specific engineering attention. Our doors feature channel-supported edges with ballistic armor extending to cover the full edge profile. Continuous geared hinges available for higher protection levels.
- ■ Channel-supported edge construction
- ■ Full-length edge armor coverage
- ■ Reinforced hinge attachment points
- ■ Continuous geared hinge options
Thermal & Acoustic Performance
Beyond ballistic protection, our doors deliver functional performance for building comfort. Foam insulation between armor layers provides thermal resistance. Dense construction offers significant acoustic attenuation between spaces.
- ■ Foam core insulation between armor layers
- ■ High mass construction for acoustic performance
- ■ Weather seals and thermal breaks
- ■ Energy code compliance
Commercial Hardware Compatibility
Engineered for integration with commercial-grade door hardware including mortise locks, cylindrical locks, and electronic access control systems. All hardware mounting locations maintain ballistic integrity while providing full functionality.
- ■ Mortise and cylindrical lock compatibility
- ■ Electronic access control integration
- ■ ADA-compliant hardware options
- ■ Reinforced hardware mounting
Architectural Finish Options
Ballistic protection does not require sacrificing aesthetics. Our doors are available with multiple finish options to complement any design scheme, from factory primer to wood veneer, stainless steel cladding, and powder coating.
- ■ Factory primer for field painting
- ■ Wood veneer finish options
- ■ Stainless steel cladding
- ■ Powder coating in custom colors
Technical Specifications
Detailed specifications for ballistic resistant door assemblies
| Specification | Level 1-3 | Level 4-5 | Level 6-8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | |||
| Standard Width | 36" (914mm) | 36" (914mm) | 36" (914mm) |
| Standard Height | 84" (2134mm) | 84" (2134mm) | 84" (2134mm) |
| Maximum Width | 48" (1219mm) | 48" (1219mm) | 42" (1067mm) |
| Maximum Height | 96" (2438mm) | 96" (2438mm) | 96" (2438mm) |
| Door Thickness | 1-3/4" to 2" (44-51mm) | 2" to 2-1/4" (51-57mm) | 2-1/4" to 3" (57-76mm) |
| Construction | |||
| Face Sheet Gauge | 16-14 gauge | 14-12 gauge | 12-10 gauge |
| Core Construction | Steel stiffened with armor | Steel rib with armor plate | Multi-layer armor composite |
| Frame Gauge | 14 gauge minimum | 12 gauge minimum | 12-10 gauge |
| Edge Construction | Channel supported | Channel with armor | Heavy channel with full armor |
| Weight | |||
| Door Weight (36"x84") | 160-250 lbs (73-113 kg) | 250-350 lbs (113-159 kg) | 350-450 lbs (159-204 kg) |
| Frame Weight | 50-75 lbs (23-34 kg) | 75-100 lbs (34-45 kg) | 100-150 lbs (45-68 kg) |
| Assembly Weight | 210-325 lbs (95-147 kg) | 325-450 lbs (147-204 kg) | 450-600 lbs (204-272 kg) |
| Hardware | |||
| Minimum Hinges | 3 heavy-duty butt | 4 heavy-duty butt or continuous | Continuous geared required |
| Hinge Capacity | 450 lbs minimum | 600 lbs minimum | 800 lbs minimum |
| Lock Preparation | Standard mortise/cylindrical | Reinforced mortise/cylindrical | Heavy-duty reinforced |
| Glazing | |||
| Maximum Glazing Area | 1296 sq in (8361 cm²) | 864 sq in (5574 cm²) | 576 sq in (3716 cm²) |
| Glazing Thickness | 1" to 1-1/4" (25-32mm) | 1-1/4" to 1-1/2" (32-38mm) | 1-1/2" to 2" (38-51mm) |
| Glazing Standard | UL 752 / ASTM F1233 | UL 752 / ASTM F1233 | UL 752 / ASTM F1233 |
| Performance | |||
| Ballistic Rating | UL 752 Level 1, 2, or 3 | UL 752 Level 4 or 5 | UL 752 Level 6, 7, or 8 |
| Fire Rating (Optional) | Up to 90 minutes | Up to 90 minutes | Up to 60 minutes |
| Acoustic Performance (STC) | STC 35-40 | STC 40-45 | STC 45-50 |
Frame System Options
Factory-welded frame assembly for maximum strength and alignment
Field-assembled frame for retrofit installations
Allows door swing in both directions for paired openings
Testing and Certification Standards
Available Custom Options
Construction Materials
Understanding the materials that make ballistic resistant doors effective
Ballistic resistant door performance depends on the strategic combination of materials engineered to absorb, deflect, and capture projectile energy. Each material serves a specific function in the overall protection system, with selection based on the target UL 752 level and project requirements.
Cold-Rolled Steel
Face Sheets and StructureCold-rolled steel forms the exterior face sheets and internal structural elements. The cold-rolling process produces steel with tighter tolerances and improved strength compared to hot-rolled alternatives.
Ballistic Fiberglass
Composite Core MaterialWoven fiberglass fabric bonded with specialized resins under heat and pressure. Captures projectiles through fiber engagement and energy absorption across multiple material layers.
Armor Plate Steel
Primary Ballistic LayerSpecialized steel with controlled hardness and toughness characteristics for projectile defeat. Positioned within the door core through ballistic analysis for optimal protection.
Glass-Clad Polycarbonate
Vision Panel GlazingMultiple layers of glass and polycarbonate bonded under heat and pressure. Glass strike face shatters projectiles while internal polycarbonate layers capture fragments and prevent spall.
Polyurethane Foam
Insulation and FillClosed-cell foam fills void spaces, providing thermal insulation and acoustic dampening while securing armor components in position throughout the door's service life.
Steel Reinforcement Channels
Structural SupportInternal steel channels provide structural support for armor plates and distribute loads to hinges and hardware locations, creating a rigid internal frame that maintains door flatness.
Assembly Process
Internal Frame Assembly
Steel channels welded to form internal support structure with hardware reinforcement plates.
Armor Plate Installation
Armor plates positioned within frame based on ballistic engineering analysis.
Composite Layer Application
Ballistic fiberglass panels fitted around and between armor plates.
Foam Fill
Polyurethane foam injected to fill voids, securing components and providing thermal performance.
Face Sheet Application
Cold-rolled steel face sheets welded to core assembly, creating finished door surface.
Hardware Preparation
Hinge, lock, and hardware preparations machined through completed assembly.
Applications
Industries and facilities that rely on ballistic resistant door protection
Banks & Financial Institutions
The largest commercial market for ballistic resistant doors, with banks requiring protection for teller areas, vault entrances, manager offices, and employee access points.
Government & Courthouses
Federal, state, and local facilities require protection for employees and secure areas. Courthouses use ballistic doors for judge chambers, holding areas, and evidence rooms.
Schools & Education
Educational facilities increasingly specify ballistic doors for main entries, administrative offices, and classroom doors as part of active shooter protection programs.
Embassies & Diplomatic
U.S. embassies, consulates, and diplomatic facilities require the highest levels of ballistic protection due to elevated threat profiles in many host countries.
Healthcare Facilities
Hospitals install ballistic doors in emergency departments, psychiatric units, pharmacy areas, and administrative offices where workplace violence risks are elevated.
Critical Infrastructure
Water treatment plants, electrical substations, and telecommunications facilities require ballistic protection to maintain essential services during security incidents.
Project Experience
Euwoo has supplied ballistic resistant doors for financial institutions, government facilities, schools, and commercial security projects across multiple countries. Our engineering team provides specification assistance and technical support throughout the project lifecycle.
Lock and Hardware Systems
Commercial-grade hardware solutions for ballistic resistant door assemblies
Ballistic resistant doors require hardware systems engineered to complement the door's protection level while providing secure, reliable operation. Standard commercial hardware is typically suitable with appropriate reinforcement, though some high-security applications may require specialized ballistic-rated components.
Lock Systems
Mortise Locks
Standard choice for commercial ballistic door applications, offering robust construction and multiple function options. Lock body mortised into door edge with steel reinforcement plates.
Cylindrical Locks
Cost-effective alternative to mortise locks for Level 1-3 applications where budget constraints exist. Requires reinforcement of door face and strike area.
Multi-Point Locks
Engages door at multiple locations along vertical edge, distributing attack forces. Three-point to seven-point systems available.
Electronic Access Control Integration
Modern ballistic door installations typically integrate with building access control systems for credential-based entry and audit trail capabilities:
Replace standard strikes in the frame, releasing the latch when triggered by access control.
Incorporate solenoids that control locking directly within the lock body with key override.
Mount to frame head with armature on door, providing high holding force when energized.
Proximity, smart card, and biometric readers for wall-mount or mullion integration.
Hinge Systems
Ballistic door weight requires heavy-duty hinges with appropriate weight capacity and attachment reinforcement:
| Hinge Type | Description | Weight Capacity | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy-Duty Butt Hinges | Five-knuckle butt hinges in heavy-duty configurations (0.180" gauge). Requires minimum four hinges. | Up to 300 lbs per set | UL 752 Levels 1-3 |
| Continuous Geared Hinges | Full-length geared hinges distribute door weight across entire frame height, eliminating stress concentrations. | Up to 600 lbs | UL 752 Levels 4-8 (recommended for all) |
| Heavy-Duty Continuous | Maximum-capacity continuous hinges for the heaviest ballistic door assemblies. | Up to 800+ lbs | UL 752 Levels 6-8 |
Door Closers
Ballistic door weight requires closers with appropriate size ratings and mounting reinforcement:
- ■ Size 5 or 6 closer minimum for most applications
- ■ Reinforced arm mounting preparation
- ■ Delayed action option for accessibility
- ■ Hold-open and smoke detector release options
Panic and Exit Hardware
Exit devices for egress doors must meet code requirements while integrating with ballistic construction:
Customization Options
Configure ballistic resistant doors to meet your project specifications
Euwoo manufactures ballistic resistant doors to project-specific requirements, offering flexibility in dimensions, protection levels, glazing, hardware preparation, and finishes. Our engineering team works with architects and specifiers to develop configurations that meet security requirements while integrating with overall building design.
Dimensions
Custom sizing beyond standard dimensions to fit existing openings or new construction:
| Dimension | Standard | Custom Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Width | 36" (914mm) | 24" to 48" (610mm to 1219mm) | Wider doors may require reduced ballistic level due to increased total load |
| Height | 84" (2134mm) | 80" to 96" (2032mm to 2438mm) | Taller doors require additional hinge points |
| Thickness | 1-3/4" (44mm) | 1-3/4" to 3" (44mm to 76mm) | Thickness varies with protection level |
Door Configurations
Single and paired door options to accommodate various opening requirements:
Glazing Options
Vision panel configurations from minimal to full-lite designs:
Finish Options
Surface treatments to match architectural requirements:
| Finish | Description | Durability | Cost Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Factory Primer | Gray or red primer ready for field painting | Interior only, must be topcoated | Standard (included) |
| Powder Coating | Factory-applied powder coat in standard RAL colors | Interior and exterior use | Add 10-15% |
| Wood Veneer | Real wood veneer (oak, maple, walnut, cherry) | Interior use | Add 20-30% |
| Stainless Steel | 304 stainless steel cladding (#4 brushed, #8 mirror) | Interior and exterior, vandal resistant | Add 25-35% |
| Laminate | High-pressure laminate (Wilsonart, Formica) | Interior use | Add 15-20% |
Combined Ratings
Multi-threat door assemblies combining ballistic with other protection types:
Combined bullet and fire resistance in single assembly
Combined bullet and physical attack resistance
Specified acoustic performance with ballistic protection
OEM/ODM Programs
Euwoo supports private label and custom development programs for security integrators and door distributors:
- ■ Private label packaging and documentation
- ■ Custom designs to partner specifications
- ■ Certification under partner brand
- ■ Inventory programs for standard configurations
- ■ Technical training for sales teams
Specification Support
Our engineering team assists with project specification development:
- ■ Protection level recommendation based on threat assessment
- ■ Hardware selection and integration guidance
- ■ Shop drawing preparation and approval
- ■ Sample and mock-up production
- ■ Installation coordination and training
Ballistic Level Comparison
Compare UL 752 protection levels to select the right ballistic resistant door
| Feature | Level 1-3 (Handgun) | Level 4-5 (Rifle) | Level 6-8 (High-Power) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protection | |||
| Threat Type | Common handguns (9mm to .44 Magnum) | Hunting/military rifles (.30 cal, 7.62mm) | High-velocity rifles (5.56mm, 7.62mm multi-shot) |
| Test Shots | 3 shots in 4" triangle | 1 shot | 5 shots |
| Typical Applications | Banks, retail, healthcare, schools | Government, courthouses, embassies | Military, high-security government |
| Construction | |||
| Door Thickness | 1-3/4" to 2" (44-51mm) | 2" to 2-1/4" (51-57mm) | 2-1/4" to 3" (57-76mm) |
| Steel Face Gauge | 16-14 gauge | 14-12 gauge | 12-10 gauge |
| Core Construction | Steel stiffened with fiberglass | Steel rib with armor plate | Multi-layer armor composite |
| Weight | |||
| Door Weight (36"x84") | 160-250 lbs | 250-350 lbs | 350-450 lbs |
| Complete Assembly | 210-325 lbs | 325-450 lbs | 450-600 lbs |
| Hardware | |||
| Hinge Requirements | 3-4 heavy-duty butt hinges | Continuous geared recommended | Continuous geared required |
| Lock Options | Standard mortise/cylindrical | Multi-point recommended | Multi-point required |
| Glazing | |||
| Maximum Glazing Area | 1296 sq in (full lite) | 864 sq in (half lite typical) | 576 sq in (limited options) |
| Glazing Thickness | 1" to 1-1/4" | 1-1/4" to 1-1/2" | 1-1/2" to 2" |
| Performance | |||
| Combined Fire Rating | Up to 90 minutes available | Up to 60 minutes available | Limited availability |
| Acoustic STC Rating | STC 35-40 | STC 40-45 | STC 45-50 |
| Project | |||
| Standard Lead Time | 4-6 weeks | 6-8 weeks | 8-12 weeks |
| Relative Cost | $ | $$ | $$$ |
Important: Level Linearity
UL 752 Levels 1-3 are linear—a Level 3 door automatically meets Level 1 and 2 requirements. However, Levels 4-8 are NOT linear. Each level tests different ammunition, so a Level 8 door does not necessarily meet Level 7 requirements. Specify the exact level required for your threat profile.
Quick Selection Guide
Installation Requirements
Structural and installation considerations for ballistic resistant door assemblies
Proper installation is critical to ballistic resistant door performance. The door, frame, and surrounding wall construction must work together as a complete system. Weak wall construction or improper frame anchoring can compromise ballistic protection regardless of door quality.
Wall Construction Requirements
The wall surrounding a ballistic door opening must provide equivalent protection to prevent bypass attacks:
Concrete Masonry (CMU)
- ■ 8" minimum nominal thickness for Level 1-3
- ■ Grouted cells at frame anchors
- ■ Reinforcement bars at jamb locations
- ■ Continuous ballistic protection
Poured Concrete
- ■ 6" minimum thickness for Level 1-3
- ■ 8" minimum for Level 4+
- ■ Reinforcement at opening perimeter
- ■ Embed plates for welded frame attachment
Steel Stud
- ■ Ballistic fiberglass panels in wall cavity
- ■ Steel plate behind frame jambs
- ■ Continuous protection top to bottom
- ■ Minimum 16 gauge studs at frame location
Existing Construction
- ■ Assessment of existing wall capability
- ■ Retrofit ballistic panels may be required
- ■ Frame anchoring to existing structure
- ■ Gap filler at frame-to-wall interface
Frame Installation Steps
Opening Preparation
Verify rough opening dimensions match frame requirements. Standard rough opening is frame size plus 3/4" each side and top. Ensure wall is plumb, level, and square.
Frame Positioning
Position frame in opening with temporary shims. Check plumb on both jambs and level on header. Verify frame is not twisted or racked.
Anchor Installation
Install anchors per frame manufacturer requirements—typically 3 per jamb minimum. Anchors must engage structural wall material, not just surface finishes.
Frame Grouting
Fill frame-to-wall gap with non-shrink grout for masonry or concrete walls. Steel stud walls use backer rod and sealant. Prevents bullet paths around frame.
Hardware Preparation
Verify all hardware cutouts align with specified hardware. Install reinforcement plates at hardware locations if not factory-installed.
Post-Installation Inspection Checklist
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ballistic resistant doors and specifications
