What are ballistic classes?
The European Standard DIN EN 1522: Safety standards for bullet-resistant systems
The European standard DIN EN 1522 defines the safety standards for bullet-resistant systems. Depending on the type of weapon, calibre, and test methodology, seven different ballistic resistance classes are distinguished. When testing glazing, the test result is complemented by either “S” for splintering or “NS” for non-splintering.
Ballistic resistance classes and their significance
The seven ballistic resistance classes of the European standard DIN EN 1522 are crucial for the classification of security systems. Each class specifies what type of threat the system protects against, ranging from small calibres to high-powered firearms. The classification is determined by rigorous tests in which the materials are examined for their bullet resistance.
Glazing and safety criteria
When testing glazing, not only bullet resistance is relevant but also the type of splintering. Glazing subjected to ballistic tests is categorised as “S” for splintering or “NS” for non-splintering. This distinction is important, as splinters in a threatening situation can pose additional risks of injury.
Secure solutions from SITEC
SITEC offers bullet-resistant systems up to the highest resistance class FB7. In the development of these systems, we ensure that all components are perfectly coordinated. This guarantees that the entire system meets the strict safety requirements of the European standard DIN EN 1522.
Overview of ballistic resistance classes
Ballistic Rating
Type of weapon, calibre
Projectile mass
Test distance (m)
Muzzle velocity (m/s)
FB1
.22 LR rifle

2.6 ± 0.1
10 +/- 0.5
360 +/- 10
FB2
Handgun,
9 mm Luger

8 +/- 0.1
5 +/- 0.5
400 +/- 10
FB3
Handgun,
.357 Mag.

10.2 ± 0.1
5 +/- 0.1
430 +/- 10
FB4
Handgun,
.357 Mag.
.44 Rem. Mag.

10.2 ± 0.1
15.6 ± 0.1
5 ± 0.1
5 ± 0.1
430 +/- 10
440 +/- 10
FB5
Rifle 5.56 x 45

4 +/- 0.1
10 +/- 0.5
950 +/- 10
FB6

4 +/- 0.1
9.5 +/- 0.1
10 +/- 0.5
10 +/- 0.5
950 +/- 10
830 +/- 10
FB7

9.8 ± 0.1
10 +/- 0.5
820 +/- 10
Ballistic Rating
FB1
Type of weapon, calibre
.22 LR Rifle

Projectile mass
2.6 +/- 0.1
Test distance (m)
10 +/- 0.5
Muzzle velocity (m/s)
360 +/- 10
Ballistic Rating
FB2
Type of weapon, calibre
Handgun,
9 mm Luger

Projectile mass
8 +/- 0.1
Test distance (m)
5 +/- 0.5
Muzzle velocity (m/s)
400 +/- 10
Ballistic Rating
FB3
Type of weapon, calibre
Handgun,
.357 Mag.

Projectile mass
10.2 +/- 0.1
Test distance (m)
5 ± 0.1
Muzzle velocity (m/s)
430 +/- 10
Ballistic Rating
FB4
Type of weapon, calibre
Handgun,
.357 Mag.
.44 Rem. Mag.

Projectile mass
10.2 +/- 0.1
15.6 +/- 0.1
Test distance (m)
5 +/- 0.1
5 +/- 0.1
Muzzle velocity (m/s)
430 +/- 10
440 +/- 10
Ballistic Rating
FB5
Type of weapon, calibre
Rifle
5.56 x 45

Projectile mass
4 +/- 0.1
Test distance (m)
10 +/- 0.5
Muzzle velocity (m/s)
950 +/- 10
Ballistic Rating
FB6
Type of weapon, calibre
Case
5.56 x 45 /
7.62 x 51 (soft core)

Projectile mass
4 +/- 0.1
9.5 +/- 0.1
Test distance (m)
10 +/- 0.5
10 +/- 0.5
Muzzle velocity (m/s)
950 +/- 10
830 +/- 10
Ballistic Rating
FB7
Type of weapon, calibre
Canister
7.62 x 51 (Armour-piercing)
