FAQs on Optishield Tactical™ Bullet Resistant Glass for Law Enforcement Safety
Are there proprietary ingredients in Optishield Tactical bullet resistant glass or is your armored glass similar to other varieties manufactured by other glass manufacturers?
Yes, CGS uses a proprietary stack-up to minimize weight while maximizing ballistic threat resistance, all while offering a cost-effective solution tailored specifically for law enforcement applications.
What’s the difference between bullet proof glass and bullet resistant glass?
Bulletproof glass and bullet-resistant glass refer to virtually the same type of product. However, each variation is engineered with specific ballistic resistance levels, or threat ratings, that define its protective capabilities. CGS offers a wide range of ballistic products to meet different threat levels and can work with you to find the ideal solution for your unique application.
Are there plans to roll-out Optishield Tactical bullet resistant glass for non-vehicle applications, such as for bank teller windows or security camera encasements?
Yes, CGS manufactures a full range of ballistic glass products and is happy to consult with you to meet your business needs in various applications.
Can Optishield Tactical bullet resistant glass be tinted different colors?
Yes, Optishield can be tinted to virtually any color, but standard variations come in automotive clear, green, light grey and privacy grey. Be sure to check DOT regulations in your state regarding required light transmission and options for special-use waivers.
Can antenna wiring or heat-defrost wiring be embedded in CGS’s bullet resistant glass?
Currently, Optishield does not offer options for embedded defrost or antenna wiring. However, CGS can evaluate your unique application needs and recommend a potential path forward to meet your requirements.
Can any glass shop install Optishield Tactical bullet resistant glass or does Custom Glass Solutions manage the installation process?
Due to the critical role proper installation plays in the performance and functionality of Optishield Tactical, CGS limits installations to its pre-vetted and certified installation partners. This guarantees optimized protection, industry-leading warranty coverage, and dependable service.
How does one go about ordering Optishield Tactical armored glass for a police vehicle or fleet?
To order Optishield Tactical, contact CGS and we will connect you with a member of our certified installation network to guide you through the ordering and installation process.
View our demo to see Optishield Tactical armored glass in action
General Product Information
What is Optishield Tactical Bullet Resistant Glass?
Optishield is a lightweight, NIJ Level IIIA-certified transparent armor solution for law enforcement vehicles, designed for enhanced protection without compromising optical clarity or functionality.
Who manufactures Optishield?
Optishield is made by Custom Glass Solutions (CGS), a trusted OEM glass manufacturer with over 50 years of experience, adhering to strict OEM specifications for quality, clarity, and durability.
How many Optishield systems have been installed?
Optishield has been successfully installed in over 5,000 vehicles across the United States.
What configurations are available for Optishield?
Optishield is available as windshield systems, fixed side glass, roll-down (operable) side glass, and rear glass options.
Where is Optishield manufactured?
Optishield is 100% made in the USA at CGS facilities in Pennsylvania and Ohio, totaling nearly 500,000 square feet of manufacturing space.
Performance and Features
What level of ballistic protection does Optishield bullet resistant glass provide?
Optishield offers NIJ Level IIIA protection, capable of stopping handgun threats like .44 magnum, 40S&W, 10MM, 357 Magnum, and 9mm rounds among others. Optishield can be produced to protect against higher threat levels, so contact us if your application requires greater threat protection.
Does Optishield support return fire capabilities?
Yes, the operable Optishield side glass allows for return fire, a critical feature for officer safety during high-threat scenarios.
Does Optishield impact visibility or optical clarity?
No, Optishield is engineered with industry-leading optical clarity and distortion-free performance, meeting or exceeding OEM standards.
What are the weight implications of installing Optishield?
The system only adds approximately 200 lbs to most vehicles, allowing existing mechanical systems to remain in place while maintaining vehicle performance.
Is the system resistant to environmental factors?
Yes, Optishield is lab-tested for environmental durability, including heat, humidity and UV exposure.
Installation and Warranty
Does installing Optishield require modifications to the vehicle?
Optishield is designed for OEM form, fit, and function, requiring minimal fabrication and ensuring installation is fully reversible if needed.
Can Optishield bullet resistant glass be installed on-site?
Yes, CGS offers professional on-site installation services to minimize vehicle downtime and ensure proper fitment.
What is the warranty for Optishield?
Optishield comes with a comprehensive product and installation warranty, covering both materials and workmanship.
Does installing Optishield void the vehicle manufacturer’s warranty?
No, Optishield is designed as a direct OEM replacement and does not void the vehicle manufacturer’s warranty.
Can Optishield be decommissioned or transferred to another vehicle?
Yes, Optishield is fully reversible and can be removed and replaced with OEM glass. Optishield door glass can be transferred from vehicle to vehicle by a trained Optishield installation technician.
Applications and Use Cases
Who are the primary users of Optishield bullet resistant glass?
Optishield is primarily used by law enforcement agencies, including police departments and tactical units, for enhanced vehicle safety and enhanced protection in search and rescue situations, allowing reduced response time in tactical response situations.
What makes Optishield unique compared to competitors?
Optishield, manufactured in the USA, combines lightweight construction, superior optics, and innovative return-fire capabilities in a single solution, backed by decades of OEM glass manufacturing expertise.
Is Optishield available for non-law enforcement applications?
While designed for law enforcement, Optishield can be customized for other qualifying high-security applications upon request. Optishield bullet resistant glass is also used in our Transit Assault Barriers for public transportation systems.
Product Testing and Certification
Has Optishield been field-tested?
Yes, Optishield has undergone real-world demonstrations, lab-certified ballistic testing, and environmental testing to validate its performance.
How does CGS ensure product quality for its bullet resistant glass?
CGS manufactures Optishield to OEM specifications, employing rigorous quality control processes and using advanced materials to guarantee safety and performance.
Looking for more information? You can contact Custom Glass Solutions here to start a conversation on our Optishield bullet resistant glass solutions.
600 Lakeview Plaza Blvd. Suite A
Worthington, OH 43085
Custom Glass Solutions was formed to meet the manufactured glass needs of diverse industries, from Construction, Public Transportation and Law Enforcement Vehicles to Lifestyle Vehicles and Commercial Transport for shipping and delivery. Whether it’s small and flat, large and bent, or something in between, CGS has the custom glass solution for your OEM and aftermarket needs – including laminated glass solutions, bullet resistant glass and more. We also offer OEM glass engineering expertise and many glass manufacturing capabilities for specialty glass needs, including glass bending, tempering, and annealing.