Bulletproof Transaction Windows | TSS Bulletproof

Bullet-resistant Reception Windows Are the Front Line of Defense

Set-in-place, bullet-resistant transaction windows are the most common ballistic barrier in North America. These flexible solutions convert any reception area, checkpoint, or transaction area into a secure point of sale.

Whether you’re a builder looking for an effective solution, an architect who needs aesthetically pleasing materials, or a safety manager looking to harden physical security, you’ve come to the right place. For decades, Total Security Solutions has produced a range of high-end security transaction windows. We support builders and architects at every step of the process, creating custom solutions that offer industry-leading protection and unparalleled aesthetics.

Six Types of Bulletproof Transaction Windows Designed & Cut to Size

TSS bullet-resistant transaction windows are designed with safety and aesthetics in mind. Communication between the secure and threat side is clear and natural. The clear glazing and elegant frame lines provide an uninterrupted experience. Above all, the industry-leading ballistic materials keep your people and your assets safe.

No matter what your situation is, TSS can fabricate a suitable bulletproof service window for your unique space. From an interior pass-thru window in a bank teller line to a drive-thru window at a hospital pharmacy, we can provide interior and exterior solutions that are custom-fabricated to stand the test of time.

A baffle transaction window that is stronger than glass and impact resistant to ballistic threats while still allowing for easy communication

Baffle Transaction Window

The baffle security window is one of TSS’s premier products. Baffle windows feature an offset glazing system that allows for natural sound transfer with minimal visual obstruction. The staggered window baffles remove any possibility of a shooting lane while remaining a visually unobtrusive barrier that blends in with the surroundings.

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A hole and backer transaction window that is durable and includes a voice port for voice transmission alongside the transparency of faces

Hole and Backer Transaction Window

The most traditional style of transaction window, a hole and backer transaction window features a round voice port in the ballistic glazing at mouth level. The 6" voice port and oversized 10" backer facilitate superior voice transmission and clear, full-face visibility, making communication easy and the customer experience seamless. This transparent style is ideal for interior applications, but steel talk-thru ports are also available. Metal backers are especially common in exterior settings.

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An arched transaction window made with specific sheet dimensions to meet ballistic protection needs

Arched Transaction Window

Arched teller windows feature a large, oblong backer. The elegant rounded lines enhance the design of your space while facilitating a high degree of visibility and good voice transmission. Like the baffle window, there is no clear shooting line between the staggered pieces of ballistic glass.

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A sliding-glass reception window that can be a convenient delivery location to accommodate packages, documents, and other valuable items

Sliding Transaction Window

Another common bullet-resistant transaction window, sliding reception windows are available in vertical or horizontal slides. These windows are usually equipped with a hole and backer-style voice port for clear voice transmission. Sliding transaction windows are ideal for high-traffic facilities such as medical offices, government buildings, or law offices. To pass packages or documents through, the window slides open easily. Other passer styles are compatible with sliding reception windows, and creating a sliding ticket window with a deal tray is a custom option.

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Voice Transmission Transaction Windows

TSS voice transmission transaction windows feature a single, solid piece of ballistic glazing with no ports or cuts. Normally, this would make communication between the secure and threat sides challenging. However, the voice transmission teller windows’ frames have a secure air passage so voice transmission is natural and the sight line is clear. This product is best for communication within three feet of the window. Voice transmission windows are available in two styles.

An aluminum voice around transaction window cut to size and highly resistant to ballistic impact to protect people

Aluminum Voice Around (AVA)

This all-aluminum transaction window has small, secure air passages throughout the frame to facilitate natural voice communication.

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A natural voice rail transaction window in a specific thickness, length, and width and built with expert craftsmanship

Natural Voice Rail (NVR)

The Natural Voice Rail is a TSS original. Similar to the aluminum voice around the transaction window, the NVR has a secure air passage that allows sound to transfer. This passage is built into the frame, but to the average user, the construction appears to be solid.

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An exterior transaction window that is built to resist degradation from environmental factors

Exterior Transaction Windows

Specifically designed for outdoor applications, exterior transaction windows feature a solid frame, weatherable glass-clad polycarbonate glazing, and voice port for secure communication. Exterior transaction windows are also compatible with flip lid cash trays, deal trays, ballistic countertops, and a variety of frame options.

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Are Intercoms a Good Option?

All standard TSS transaction windows rely on natural voice transmission, as opposed to intercoms. TSS CEO Jim Richards explains:

“I've been doing this for decades, and still don’t like intercoms. Yes, we sell them, because in some situations it’s absolutely what a customer needs. But there is constant tweaking with them, potential issues with crosstalk and static interference. There’s just more that can go wrong. In that regard, they are a little less predictable, which can end up being really annoying to the end user.”

If you’re considering an intercom voice transmission system and want to learn more about other options, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ve helped businesses and institutions across the country create custom ballistic solutions that provide the highest level of safety and aesthetics and we’re ready to walk you through your options today.

Looking for a Custom Transaction Window? TSS Can Help

The six types of ballistic transaction windows are just a starting point for safe and secure transactions. TSS has extensive custom capabilities so you can get the right bulletproof transaction window for your space—whether you’re in a century-old building or brand-new construction.

Every product that goes out the door is made to order, so in the words of CEO Jim Richards, “custom work is not an issue.” In fact, our custom capabilities are something we’re extremely proud to offer—alongside our speed and customer service.

For example, a city office approached TSS with a unique challenge—passing large, rolled blueprints without compromising security. TSS created an offset pass around solution that allowed city staff to pass rolled blueprints safely, despite their inconvenient dimensions and without any threat exposure.

Transaction window with package passer

“It all just depends on what the application is. We can make something they can slide a clipboard through, pass blueprints around, or use to exchange boxes or packages. We’re always ready to design something that meets the customer’s needs."

A blueprint for a security pass-through window equipped with a package passer to support business operations

Understanding UL Levels

Ballistic glazing refers to all types of transparent ballistic panels—what most people call bulletproof glass. Bulletproof glazing can be made of acrylic (also referred to as plexiglass), polycarbonate, glass, or glass-clad polycarbonate (GCP), which is a combination of those materials.

In general, many of our projects fall into the following categories:

Level 1-2: gas stations, banks, pharmacies, and retail
Level 3: utilities, police stations, and municipal facilities
Levels 4-8: federal government and military facilities

Many project specs will call out the level you need to securely conduct transactions. If you’re not sure, one of our knowledgeable experts would be happy to help.

A chart breaking down the UL levels of ballistic protection, the quantity of shots each can handle from specific weapons, and the approximate thickness of ballistic materials in inches

The Glazing Behind the Glass: Acrylic Sheets & Polycarbonate Sheets

Every TSS transaction window starts with a choice of glazing material.

Acrylic sheets are the most widely used option in the industry, offering 90%+ light transmission, resistance to yellowing, and edges that can be flame-polished for a crystal-clear, glass-like finish. They're ideal for interior windows rated to UL Levels 1–2.

TSS's laminated polycarbonate typically pairs an acrylic core with two mar-resistant polycarbonate sheets, extending protection to Level 3 for higher-traffic or higher-risk interiors.

It's worth noting that polycarbonate barriers can offer comparable bullet resistance to acrylic at almost half the weight and thickness.

For exterior applications or higher-threat environments, glass-clad polycarbonate (GCP) combines the strength of polycarbonate with the cleanability and visual appeal of glass. Rated for UL Levels 1–8, GCP holds up to weathering, solvents, and UV exposure.

The right choice comes down to your threat level, traffic, and how much light transmission you need to keep transactions feeling open rather than fortified. Our ballistic experts can help you weigh the trade-offs for your specific space.

A transaction window consisting of laminated polycarbonate clear panels independently tested for ballistic resistance

A photo showing an exterior transaction window that combines strength with optical clarity and is bullet-resistant, which is different than virtually unbreakable

The Three Components of a Transaction Window for Various Applications

Whether you need a sliding reception window, baffle window, or ticket window with a deal tray, there are three main components that every custom transaction window will incorporate.

Ballistic glass and frame: This is the window itself: ballistically rated glazing and the ballistically rated framing to hold it in place. The glazing is usually monolithic acrylic, laminated polycarbonate, or glass-clad polycarbonate materials; frame systems depend on the teller window style and design.
Communication system: This is the sound system that allows voices to pass through the barrier. Most TSS designs use overlapping panes of glazing with enough space for sound to pass freely but do not create a straight line of fire. Active intercom and frame-based options are also available.
Materials Passer: This system facilitates the safe and secure exchange of currency, documents, packages, and other materials. In most cases, this means an integrated currency tray, deal tray, transaction drawer, or package passer. In low-threat, low-traffic security settings, a horizontal sliding transaction window acts as both the passer and the window. However, in higher-traffic settings, a larger package passer can be integrated with the transaction window.

How Much Does a Bulletproof Transaction Window Cost?

The factors that influence the cost of your bulletproof transaction window system include the overall design and size, protection level, as well as the type of glass and framing components.

The cost of a single-station transaction window may start around $4,000 and will vary depending on the above and other factors. Multi-station transaction line systems can run into the tens of thousands depending on many factors.

An example of a high-quality transaction window installed in a gas station to deliver exceptional impact resistance from ballistic threats and maintain employee safety

A transaction window within a financial instution thats designed to help keep employees safe on the job

When you’re planning the budget for your ballistic transaction window project, you may need to factor in additional costs, such as wall panels, frames, and other accessories. There will also likely be an additional cost for design, manufacturing, packaging, shipping, and installation.

By offering custom fabrication for every unique project, TSS makes sure you only pay for the products and services you need. If you have questions about pricing, please don’t hesitate to reach out! These projects are complex, so the best way to determine the cost of your bulletproof system is to speak with a TSS ballistic expert rather than relying on instant pricing.

How Do You Clean Bullet-Resistant Transaction Windows?

Bullet-resistant glazing requires gentler care than standard glass. Acrylic and polycarbonate surfaces should be cleaned with a soft cloth and approved, non-abrasive solvents only. Never use household glass cleaners, paper towels, scrubbing pads, or harsh degreasers, which can scratch or cloud the material over time. Lacquer thinner should never be used near ballistic glazing under any circumstances.

Light surface scratches on uncoated acrylic can often be polished out, and an abrasion-resistant coating is available for glazing that sees frequent cleaning or heavy public contact.

When in doubt, ask your TSS representative for a list of approved cleaning products for your specific glazing type.

A series of bulletproof transaction windows to deliver ballistic protection while maintaining functionality in a utility office setting

START PLANNING YOUR SECURED TRANSACTION WINDOW PROJECT

Ready to plan your security transaction window project? Get started by asking yourself these questions:

Is this an interior or exterior window? If it’s exterior, the system should include insulated-glass and consideration should be given to thermal barrier values, UV exposure, and weather resistance.
What UL protection level do I need? Are you securing a high-risk, high-traffic area, like a government office or healthcare facility? Or perhaps a local bank or service center?
How important is voice transmission and a clear line of vision? If staff need to have long conversations or will be discussing sensitive information, a high level of voice transmission might be a high priority.
Will it be necessary to pass anything through the window? Common pass-through items include money, envelopes, legal files and other documents, or packages.
If so, what size? A bank might only need a small deal tray, whereas a law office may need a larger pass-through system to accommodate case files.

Whether you need a highly-customized solution or already know which type of transaction window you need, TSS’s integrated systems approach ensures every element is fully integrated. Not only do we ensure every component of your bulletproof teller window works together, but we also make sure the window itself fits with your building space, security system, and aesthetic design.

Still in the very early planning stage? Backed by years of experience, we've put together this practical guide to help avoid costly errors and set yourself up for success. The guide also covers bullet-resistant barrier systems fundamentals, and provides expert tips on determining the right kind of barrier, selecting the right materials, and beginning the project planning process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Transaction Security Windows

Can bullet-resistant transaction windows be installed inside and outside?

Yes, bullet-resistant transaction windows can be installed both indoors and outdoors, but it’s critical to use the right materials for each application. Exterior installations must account for UV exposure, moisture, and temperature changes. TSS engineers ensure the correct glazing and framing are used for outdoor environments to maintain ballistic integrity and long-term performance.

How do bulletproof transaction windows affect sound?

Because sound doesn’t travel well through bullet-resistant glazing, transaction windows are equipped with sound transfer solutions like voice ports or natural voice transfer systems. These allow for clear, two-way communication that's especially important in facilities that handle sensitive information.

Are transaction windows highly customizable?

Absolutely. TSS offers a range of customizable options to suit aesthetic, functional, and operational requirements. From matching specific countertop heights to facilitating unusual transactions like blueprint transfers or adjustable-height workstations, our team can engineer windows to your exact specifications.

Can transaction windows include pass-thru windows?

Yes. TSS transaction windows often incorporate pass-through accessories, such as sliding windows, package passers, or drawers. These are ideal for safely exchanging items like cash, paperwork, or larger packages—especially for facilities that need to remain secure after hours or handle nighttime transactions.

Can transaction windows include deal trays?

Yes, deal trays (also called currency trays) are one of the most common accessories included in bullet-resistant transaction windows. They allow for seamless, secure exchange of small items like cash or documents without compromising the ballistic protection of the window system.

What materials are used for transaction window countertops?

Transaction window countertops are typically surfaced in plastic laminate or stainless steel. Plastic laminate is the most common due to its affordability and variety of color options, making it ideal for interior use. Stainless steel is often chosen for exterior applications or where higher durability and hygiene are priorities. Currency trays are usually recessed into the countertop to maintain efficiency and security in item exchange.

TSS Is Proud to Be Your Trusted Source for Bullet-Resistant Windows, From Teller Windows to Sliding-Glass Reception Windows

TSS is proud to provide businesses, organizations, and institutions across the country with industry-leading Safety + Aesthetics™ in ballistic barrier solutions, alongside exceptional customer service.

Alongside transaction windows, we design, engineer, manufacture, and install other types of bullet-resistant windows, doors, frames, and more. From transaction lines and entryways to guard booths and safe rooms, we customize layered solutions that protect your people and provide added peace of mind.

We’re happy to field any questions you might have about getting started; to get in touch or request a quote, send us a message online, or call us at 517-715-0800. We look forward to speaking with you!