ASTM E3347/E3347M-23

Standard Specification for Ballistic-Resistant Shields Used by Law Enforcement Officers

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The purpose of this specification is to provide performance requirements and test methods for the evaluation of ballistic-resistant shields used by law enforcement officers.  
4.2 This specification may be used by suppliers, certification bodies, verification bodies, testing laboratories, research and development organizations, and others assessing the performance of ballistic-resistant shields.  
4.3 The specification may be used by purchasers in their evaluation of products to meet their needs and requirements.
SCOPE
1.1 This standard specifies minimum performance requirements and test methods for the ballistic resistance of shields used by U.S. law enforcement officers to protect against handgun and rifle ammunition.  
1.1.1 The option for testing either handgun-rated or rifle-rated shields with a shotgun threat is included in Appendix X2.
Note 1: Shields rated as “shotgun only” are not typically produced in the industry because they are not used by law enforcement agencies.  
1.2 Products addressed by this specification include hand-held or hand-carried shields (having single or multiple panels, multi-fold shields) and person-portable shields with wheels.  
1.2.1 Shields may be stand-alone or may incorporate in conjunction with (ICW) armor appliques.  
1.3 Products not addressed by this specification include fixed or mobile barriers not intended to move during an operation and flexible shields that drape across the surfaces upon which they are placed (for example, ballistic blankets).
Note 2: The above products are addressed by Specification E3236/E3236M.  
1.4 This specification addresses ballistic performance in terms of resistance to penetration (RTP) of the shield body, body edges, viewports, fasteners, and weak points.  
1.5 Shields covered by this specification are classified into ASTM shield ballistic protection levels (see Section 10).  
1.6 This specification is applicable for certification testing, verification testing, or research and development testing.  
1.7 Values stated in either the International System of Units (metric) or U.S. Customary units [inch-pound] are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents. Both units are referenced to facilitate acquisition of materials internationally and minimize fabrication costs. Tests conducted using either system maintain repeatability and reproducibility of the test method and results are comparable.  
1.8 This specification is divided into the following sections:    
Section  
Title    
1  
Scope  
2  
Referenced Documents  
3  
Terminology  
4  
Significance and Use  
5  
Equipment and Materials  
6  
Conditioning Requirements  
7  
Test Requirements  
8  
Test Item Requirements  
9  
Procedure for Visual Examination  
10  
Ballistic Protection Levels and Test Threats  
11  
Ballistic Performance Requirements for Handgun-rated Shields  
12  
Ballistic Performance Requirements for Rifle-rated Shields    
13  
Product Documentation Requirements  
14  
Product Label and Package Label Requirements  
15  
Test Report  
16  
Keywords    
Appendix X1  
Example Test Item and Shot Distribution Diagrams  
Appendix X2  
Performance Requirements for Adding a Shotgun Threat to a Handgun-rated or Rifle-rated Shield  
1.9 The tests required by this standard have inherent hazards. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.10 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Apr-2023
• ICS: 13.310 - Protection against crime
• ICS: 13.340.99 - Other protective equipment
• Technical Committee: E54 - Homeland Security Applications
• Drafting Committee: E54.04 - Public Safety Equipment

Relations

• Refers: ASTM E3005-24 - Standard Terminology for Body Armor and Ballistic Protection
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2024
• Refers: ASTM E3005-20 - Standard Terminology for Body Armor
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2020
• Refers: ASTM E3005-18 - Standard Terminology for Body Armor
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2018
• Refers: ASTM E3005-15 - Standard Terminology for Body Armor
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2015

Overview

ASTM E3347/E3347M-23: Standard Specification for Ballistic-Resistant Shields Used by Law Enforcement Officers establishes the minimum performance requirements and test methods for ballistic-resistant shields. Developed by ASTM International, this standard is designed to help ensure the reliability and effectiveness of shields used by law enforcement agencies in the U.S. The specification addresses both handgun and rifle ballistic threats, with an option to include shotgun threats.

This standard is a critical reference for manufacturers, suppliers, certification bodies, testing laboratories, and agencies procuring ballistic shields. It ensures products meet fundamental safety and performance criteria for protecting officers during high-risk operations.

Key Topics

• Scope of Coverage:
  The standard applies to hand-held, hand-carried, or person-portable ballistic shields (including multi-panel and wheeled units). Fixed barriers or flexible shields are not covered.

• Ballistic Protection Levels:
  Shields are classified by protection levels:

  • ASTM-Shield-HG2: Handgun threats
  • ASTM-Shield-RF1, RF2, RF3: Progressive rifle threats
  • ASTM-Shield-SG: Optional shotgun threat

• Test Methods:
  Standardized test methods assess resistance to penetration (RTP) for the shield body, edges, fasteners, viewports, and potential weak points. Rigorous conditioning and ballistic testing sequences simulate real-world operational environments.

• Product Requirements:

  • Shields may be stand-alone or incorporate armor appliques.
  • Manufacturers must submit shields identical to those sold on the market for testing.
  • Required documentation includes build sheets and diagrams, clearly identifying areas of increased protection.

• Labeling and Documentation:
  The standard specifies permanent product and packaging label requirements, indicating protection level, model designation, country of origin, and warranty period. Instructions for use, care, and storage must be provided to the end user.

Applications

• Law Enforcement Procurement:
  Agencies can use this standard when specifying or evaluating ballistic shields for officer protection. The clear identification of protection levels and rigorous testing procedures help purchasers select suitable products for operational needs.

• Product Certification and Quality Assurance:
  Certification bodies and testing laboratories reference ASTM E3347/E3347M-23 to validate shield performance. Accurate and repeatable test methods ensure shields consistently meet minimum ballistic resistance thresholds.

• Manufacturer Guidance:
  Shield manufacturers rely on this specification to design, test, and document products. Adhering to the standard streamlines the certification process and facilitates compliance in competitive procurement.

• International Use:
  The standard includes both metric and U.S. customary units, supporting international material acquisition and cost-effective manufacturing. It aligns with internationally recognized principles of standardization.

Related Standards

• ASTM E3141/E3141M: Test Method for Ballistic Resistant Shields for Law Enforcement
• ASTM E3236/E3236M: Specification for Ballistic-resistant Barriers for Homeland Security or Public Safety Applications
• ASTM E3005: Terminology for Body Armor
• ISO/IEC 17025: General Requirements for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories

Practical Value

• Enhances officer safety by setting rigorous shield performance criteria
• Provides trusted benchmarks for shield procurement and certification
• Supports manufacturers in product development, documentation, and international market access
• Offers a harmonized approach to testing, labeling, and reporting across the law enforcement equipment sector

By following ASTM E3347/E3347M-23, stakeholders can ensure ballistic-resistant shields meet critical safety, reliability, and quality standards essential for effective law enforcement operations.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E3347/E3347M − 23
Standard Specification for
Ballistic-Resistant Shields Used by Law Enforcement
Officers
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3347/E3347M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope maintain repeatability and reproducibility of the test method
and results are comparable.
1.1 This standard specifies minimum performance require-
ments and test methods for the ballistic resistance of shields 1.8 This specification is divided into the following sections:
used by U.S. law enforcement officers to protect against
Section Title
handgun and rifle ammunition. 1 Scope
2 Referenced Documents
1.1.1 The option for testing either handgun-rated or rifle-
3 Terminology
rated shields with a shotgun threat is included in Appendix X2.
4 Significance and Use
5 Equipment and Materials
NOTE 1—Shields rated as “shotgun only” are not typically produced in
6 Conditioning Requirements
the industry because they are not used by law enforcement agencies.
7 Test Requirements
8 Test Item Requirements
1.2 Products addressed by this specification include hand-
9 Procedure for Visual Examination
held or hand-carried shields (having single or multiple panels,
10 Ballistic Protection Levels and Test Threats
multi-fold shields) and person-portable shields with wheels. 11 Ballistic Performance Requirements for Handgun-rated
Shields
1.2.1 Shields may be stand-alone or may incorporate in
12 Ballistic Performance Requirements for Rifle-rated Shields
conjunction with (ICW) armor appliques.
13 Product Documentation Requirements
14 Product Label and Package Label Requirements
1.3 Products not addressed by this specification include
15 Test Report
fixed or mobile barriers not intended to move during an
16 Keywords
Appendix X1 Example Test Item and Shot Distribution Diagrams
operation and flexible shields that drape across the surfaces
Appendix X2 Performance Requirements for Adding a Shotgun Threat to a
upon which they are placed (for example, ballistic blankets).
Handgun-rated or Rifle-rated Shield
NOTE 2—The above products are addressed by Specification E3236/ 1.9 The tests required by this standard have inherent haz-
E3236M.
ards. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety
1.4 This specification addresses ballistic performance in concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
terms of resistance to penetration (RTP) of the shield body, of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety,
body edges, viewports, fasteners, and weak points. health, and environmental practices and determine the appli-
cability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.5 Shields covered by this specification are classified into
1.10 This international standard was developed in accor-
ASTM shield ballistic protection levels (see Section 10).
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
1.6 This specification is applicable for certification testing,
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
verification testing, or research and development testing.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
1.7 Values stated in either the International System of Units
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
(metric) or U.S. Customary units [inch-pound] are to be
regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each
2. Referenced Documents
system may not be exact equivalents. Both units are referenced
to facilitate acquisition of materials internationally and mini-
2.1 ASTM Standards:
mize fabrication costs. Tests conducted using either system
E3005 Terminology for Body Armor
E3141/E3141M Test Method for Ballistic Resistant Shields
for Law Enforcement
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E54 on
Homeland Security Applications and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
E54.04 on Public Safety Equipment. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved May 1, 2023. Published June 2023. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 2022. Last previous edition approved in 2022 as E3347/E3347M – 22. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/E3347_E3347M-23. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E3347/E3347M − 23
E3236/E3236M Specification for Ballistic-resistant Barriers 3.1.12 shot-to-shot distance, n—the distance from the center
Used in Homeland Security or Public Safety Applications of the projectile impact to the center of any other projectile
impact on the test item.
2.2 ANSI/SAAMI Standards:
ANSI/SAAMI Glossary of Industry Terms
3.1.13 supplier, n—the party that is responsible for ensuring
2.3 ISO/IEC Standards: that products meet and, if applicable, continue to meet, the
ISO/IEC 17025:2017 General requirements for the compe-
requirements on which the certification is based.
tence of testing and calibration laboratories
3.1.14 stop, n—see partial penetration.
3.1.15 test item, n—a single article intended for testing.
3. Terminology
3.1.16 test series, n—the set of all shots necessary to obtain
3.1 Definitions—The following terms and definitions from
the required number of fair hits on a single test item or the set
Terminology E3005 are applicable:
of all shots necessary over multiple test items to generate the
3.1.1 ammunition, n—one or more loaded cartridges con-
required data.
sisting of case, primer, propellant, and one or more projectiles.
3.1.17 unfair hit, n—a test threat impact that does not meet
3.1.2 backface deformation, n—the indentation in the back-
the specified requirements in a particular test method for
ing material caused by a projectile impact on the test item
impact location and spacing, velocity, obliquity, or yaw.
during testing; synonymous with backface signature.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.3 backing assembly, n—a backing fixture filled with
3.2.1 armor applique, n—a removable unit of protective
backing material; for example, a clay block is a type of a
material (soft armor or hard armor) intended to be placed over
backing assembly.
the strike face of a protective product, such as a ballistic-
3.1.4 ballistic resistance, n—a characteristic of protective
resistant helmet or shield, to enhance ballistic protection in a
equipment or materials describing their ability to provide
localized area.
protection from projectiles.
3.2.2 in conjunction with armor applique, n—an armor
3.1.5 complete penetration, n—the result of a test threat
applique that is designed to provide a specific level of ballistic
impact if one or more of the following conditions are met: (1)
protection only when layered with a specified model(s) of
any portion of a test threat, a fragment of a test threat, or a
ballistic-resistant shield, helmet, or other protective product.
fragment of the test item passes through the wear face of the
test item; (2) a hole is created through the test item; (3) the
4. Significance and Use
presence of a test threat, a fragment of a test threat, or a
4.1 The purpose of this specification is to provide perfor-
fragment of the test item is embedded or passes into the
mance requirements and test methods for the evaluation of
backing material; or (4) a hole is created through the witness
ballistic-resistant shields used by law enforcement officers.
panel; synonymous with perforation.
3.1.5.1 Discussion—The conditions for complete penetra-
4.2 This specification may be used by suppliers, certifica-
tion are specified in individual test methods.
tion bodies, verification bodies, testing laboratories, research
3.1.6 conditioning, n—a process that exposes an item, prior and development organizations, and others assessing the per-
formance of ballistic-resistant shields.
to testing, to a specified controlled environment or physical
stresses, or both.
4.3 The specification may be used by purchasers in their
3.1.7 controlled ambient, n—conditions with temperature of evaluation of products to meet their needs and requirements.
68 °F 6 10 °F (20 °C 6 5.6 °C) and 50 % 6 20 % relative
humidity (RH).
5. Equipment and Materials
3.1.8 fair hit, n—a test threat impact (on a test item) that
5.1 The test range shall meet the requirements of Test
meets all specified requirements in a particular test method.
Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 5.1, Test Range Configu-
ration.
3.1.9 model, n—the manufacturer’s design, with unique
5.1.1 No firearms shall be used for testing.
specifications and characteristics, of a particular item.
3.1.10 partial penetration, n—any result of a test threat 5.2 Equipment for test item temperature and submersion
impact that is not a complete penetration; synonymous with conditioning shall meet the requirements of Test Method
stop. E3141/E3141M, Section 6, Conditioning Procedures.
3.1.11 shot-to-edge distance, n—the distance from the cen-
5.3 Test item mounting shall be as described in Test Method
ter of the projectile impact to the nearest test item edge; for soft
E3141/E3141M, subsection 5.6.1, Test Item Mounting.
armor, the test item edge shall be the edge of the ballistic
5.4 The witness panel shall be as described in Test Method
material.
E3141/E3141M, subsection 5.6.2, Witness Panel.
6. Conditioning Requirements
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
6.1 Controlled ambient conditioning shall be done in accor-
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO
dance with Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 6.1,
Central Secretariat, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva,
Switzerland, https://www.iso.org. Controlled Ambient Conditioning.
E3347/E3347M − 23
6.2 High and low temperature conditioning shall be done in 8.3.1 The build sheet and dimensioned diagram shall show
accordance with Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 6.2, areas of increased protection (for example, an applique or “plus
Temperature Extremes Procedure. up”).
8.4 The number of test items required for ballistic testing is
6.3 Thermal shock conditioning shall be done in accordance
specified in Sections 11 and 12 of this specification.
with Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 6.3, Tempera-
ture Shock Procedure.
NOTE 3—The number of test items required may increase if the ballistic
layup changes over the shield body or if there are unique body edges,
6.4 Submersion conditioning shall be done in accordance
unique fasteners, and unique weak points.
with Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 6.4, Condition-
ing by Submersion in Plain Water.
9. Procedure for Visual Examination
9.1 Verify the group of test items for correct quantity and
7. Test Requirements
sizes.
7.1 The supplier shall declare the intended ballistic protec-
9.2 Examine each test item exterior for defects as specified
tion level for a shield model being submitted for testing to this
in Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 4.2.
standard.
9.3 Examine the group of test items for variations in
7.1.1 The supplier shall declare the intended ballistic pro-
appearance, materials, and manner of construction as specified
tection level for any ICW armor applique or area of increased
in Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 4.3.
protection.
9.4 Examine the group of test items as specified in Test
7.2 The shield shall be tested in the intended-use configu-
Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 4.4, to identify regions of
ration.
identical construction and regions of unique construction.
7.2.1 Any in conjunction with (ICW) armor applique de-
9.5 Prior to conditioning, photograph at least one test item.
clared for use with a specific shield model shall be tested with
that shield model to demonstrate the increased level of ballistic
9.6 Following conditioning, examine the test items for
protection. visible damage due to conditioning and photograph any test
7.2.2 Multi-panel shields shall be tested to assess joints items showing such damage.
between panels.
10. Ballistic Protection Levels and Test Threats
7.3 The fair hit requirements shall apply as listed in Test
10.1 This specification identifies five ASTM shield ballistic
Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 5.3, Fair Hit Require-
protection levels, one for handgun (HG) protection, three for
ments.
rifle (RF) protection, and one for shotgun (SG) protection:
7.4 Cluster shot requirements shall apply as listed in Test
10.1.1 ASTM-Shield-HG2;
Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 5.4, Cluster Shot Require-
10.1.2 ASTM-Shield-RF1;
ments.
10.1.3 ASTM-Shield-RF2;
10.1.4 ASTM-Shield-RF3; and
7.5 Determination of shot results shall be done in accor-
10.1.5 ASTM-Shield-SG.
dance with Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 5.7,
Determination of Shot Result. 10.2 The ballistic protection levels and associated ballistic
test threats are as shown in Annex A1, Table A1.1.
7.6 The supplier shall identify nonballistic-resistant portions
of shields (such as rifle supports on the sides).
11. Ballistic Performance Requirements for Handgun-
rated Shields
8. Test Item Requirements
11.1 The test item shall be tested as specified in Test Method
8.1 Test items shall meet the requirements specified in Test
E3141/E3141M, Section 7, Ballistic Resistance Test
Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 4.1, Test Item Require-
Procedures, with the following modifications:
ments.
11.1.1 The manufacturer shall declare the dimensions of
smallest and largest shields that will be sold in the marketplace.
8.2 The manufacturer shall submit as test items shields
11.1.2 There are two conditioning sequences which shall be
identical in ballistic layup and construction to those sold in the
completed to satisfy the requirements of this specification. At
marketplace.
least two shields shall be submitted for each of the following
8.2.1 Test items shall be fully assembled products that are
conditioning sequences prior to ballistic testing:
sized as specified in Sections 11 and 12 of this specification.
11.1.2.1 Sequence 1:
8.2.2 All test items shall be identical in materials of con-
(1) Controlled ambient conditioning;
struction and material configuration. Test items of the same
(2) Thermal shock conditioning;
size shall be identical in construction.
(3) Controlled ambient conditioning;
8.3 The manufacturer shall provide a build sheet and dimen- (4) Submersion conditioning; then
sioned diagram indicating the location of hardware (including (5) Low temperature conditioning.
fasteners), potential weak points, interfaces between the view- 11.1.2.2 Sequence 2:
port and shield body, and thickness of viewport. (1) Controlled ambient conditioning;
E3347/E3347M − 23
(2) Thermal shock conditioning; 12. Ballistic Performance Requiremen
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: E3347/E3347M − 22 E3347/E3347M − 23
Standard Specification for
Ballistic-Resistant Shields Used by Law Enforcement
Officers
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3347/E3347M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year
of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.
A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This standard specifies minimum performance requirements and test methods for the ballistic resistance of shields used by U.S.
law enforcement officers to protect against handgun and rifle ammunition.
1.1.1 The option for testing either handgun-rated or rifle-rated shields with a shotgun threat is included in Appendix X2.
NOTE 1—Shields rated as “shotgun only” are not typically produced in the industry because they are not used by law enforcement agencies.
1.2 Products addressed by this specification include hand-held or hand-carried shields (having single or multiple panels, multi-fold
shields) and person-portable shields with wheels.
1.2.1 Shields may be stand-alone or may incorporate in conjunction with (ICW) armor appliques.
1.3 Products not addressed by this specification include fixed or mobile barriers not intended to move during an operation and
flexible shields that drape across the surfaces upon which they are placed (for example, ballistic blankets).
NOTE 2—The above products are addressed by Specification E3236/E3236M.
1.4 This specification addresses ballistic performance in terms of resistance to penetration (RTP) of the shield body, body edges,
viewports, fasteners, and weak points.
1.5 Shields covered by this specification are classified into ASTM shield ballistic protection levels (see Section 10).
1.6 This specification is applicable for certification testing, verification testing, or research and development testing.
1.7 Values stated in either the International System of Units (metric) or U.S. Customary units [inch-pound] are to be regarded
separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents. Both units are referenced to facilitate
acquisition of materials internationally and minimize fabrication costs. Tests conducted using either system maintain repeatability
and reproducibility of the test method and results are comparable.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E54 on Homeland Security Applications and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E54.04 on
Public Safety Equipment.
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2022May 1, 2023. Published August 2022June 2023. Originally approved in 2022. Last previous edition approved in 2022 as
E3347/E3347M – 22. DOI: 10.1520/E3347_E3347M-22.10.1520/E3347_E3347M-23.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E3347/E3347M − 23
1.8 This specification is divided into the following sections:
Section Title
1 Scope
2 Referenced Documents
3 Terminology
4 Significance and Use
5 Equipment and Materials
6 Conditioning Requirements
7 Test Requirements
8 Test Item Requirements
9 Procedure for Visual Examination
10 Ballistic Protection Levels and Test Threats
11 Ballistic Performance Requirements for Handgun-rated Shields
12 Ballistic Performance Requirements for Rifle-rated Shields
13 Product Documentation Requirements
14 Product Label and Package Label Requirements
15 Test Report
16 Keywords
Appendix X1 Example Test Item and Shot Distribution Diagrams
Appendix X2 Performance Requirements for Adding a Shotgun Threat to a Handgun-rated or Rifle-rated Shield
1.9 The tests required by this standard have inherent hazards. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety
concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health,
and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.10 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
E3005 Terminology for Body Armor
E3141/E3141M Test Method for Ballistic Resistant Shields for Law Enforcement
E3236/E3236M Specification for Ballistic-resistant Barriers Used in Homeland Security or Public Safety Applications
2.2 ANSI/SAAMI Standards:
ANSI/SAAMI Glossary of Industry Terms
2.3 ISO/IEC Standards:
ISO/IEC 17025:2017 General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—The following terms and definitions from Terminology E3005 are applicable:
3.1.1 ammunition, n—one or more loaded cartridges consisting of case, primer, propellant, and one or more projectiles.
3.1.2 backface deformation, n—the indentation in the backing material caused by a projectile impact on the test item during
testing; synonymous with backface signature.
3.1.3 backing assembly, n—a backing fixture filled with backing material; for example, a clay block is a type of a backing
assembly.
3.1.4 ballistic resistance, n—a characteristic of protective equipment or materials describing their ability to provide protection
from projectiles.
3.1.5 complete penetration, n—the result of a test threat impact if one or more of the following conditions are met: (1) any portion
of a test threat, a fragment of a test threat, or a fragment of the test item passes through the wear face of the test item; (2) a hole
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO Central Secretariat, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland,
https://www.iso.org.
E3347/E3347M − 23
is created through the test item; (3) the presence of a test threat, a fragment of a test threat, or a fragment of the test item is
embedded or passes into the backing material; or (4) a hole is created through the witness panel; synonymous with perforation.
3.1.5.1 Discussion—
The conditions for complete penetration are specified in individual test methods.
3.1.6 conditioning, n—a process that exposes an item, prior to testing, to a specified controlled environment or physical stresses,
or both.
3.1.7 controlled ambient, n—conditions with temperature of 68 °F 6 10 °F (20 °C 6 5.6 °C) and 50 % 6 20 % relative humidity
(RH).
3.1.8 fair hit, n—a test threat impact (on a test item) that meets all specified requirements in a particular test method.
3.1.9 model, n—the manufacturer’s design, with unique specifications and characteristics, of a particular item.
3.1.10 partial penetration, n—any result of a test threat impact that is not a complete penetration; synonymous with stop.
3.1.11 shot-to-edge distance, n—the distance from the center of the projectile impact to the nearest test item edge; for soft armor,
the test item edge shall be the edge of the ballistic material.
3.1.12 shot-to-shot distance, n—the distance from the center of the projectile impact to the center of any other projectile impact
on the test item.
3.1.13 supplier, n—the party that is responsible for ensuring that products meet and, if applicable, continue to meet, the
requirements on which the certification is based.
3.1.14 stop, n—see partial penetration.
3.1.15 test item, n—a single article intended for testing.
3.1.16 test series, n—the set of all shots necessary to obtain the required number of fair hits on a single test item or the set of all
shots necessary over multiple test items to generate the required data.
3.1.17 unfair hit, n—a test threat impact that does not meet the specified requirements in a particular test method for impact
location and spacing, velocity, obliquity, or yaw.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 armor applique, n—a removable unit of protective material (soft armor or hard armor) intended to be placed over the strike
face of a protective product, such as a ballistic-resistant helmet or shield, to enhance ballistic protection in a localized area.
3.2.2 in conjunction with armor applique, n—an armor applique that is designed to provide a specific level of ballistic protection
only when layered with a specified model(s) of ballistic-resistant shield, helmet, or other protective product.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 The purpose of this specification is to provide performance requirements and test methods for the evaluation of
ballistic-resistant shields used by law enforcement officers.
4.2 This specification may be used by suppliers, certification bodies, verification bodies, testing laboratories, research and
development organizations, and others assessing the performance of ballistic-resistant shields.
4.3 The specification may be used by purchasers in their evaluation of products to meet their needs and requirements.
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5. Equipment and Materials
5.1 The test range shall meet the requirements of Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 5.1, Test Range Configuration.
5.1.1 No firearms shall be used for testing.
5.2 Equipment for test item temperature and submersion conditioning shall meet the requirements of Test Method E3141/E3141M,
Section 6, Conditioning Procedures.
5.3 Test item mounting shall be as described in Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 5.6.1, Test Item Mounting.
5.4 The witness panel shall be as described in Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 5.6.2, Witness Panel.
6. Conditioning Requirements
6.1 Controlled ambient conditioning shall be done in accordance with Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 6.1, Controlled
Ambient Conditioning.
6.2 High and low temperature conditioning shall be done in accordance with Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 6.2,
Temperature Extremes Procedure.
6.3 Thermal shock conditioning shall be done in accordance with Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 6.3, Temperature Shock
Procedure.
6.4 Submersion conditioning shall be done in accordance with Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 6.4, Conditioning by
Submersion in Plain Water.
7. Test Requirements
7.1 The supplier shall declare the intended ballistic protection level for a shield model being submitted for testing to this standard.
7.1.1 The supplier shall declare the intended ballistic protection level for any ICW armor applique or area of increased protection.
7.2 The shield shall be tested in the intended-use configuration.
7.2.1 Any in conjunction with (ICW) armor applique declared for use with a specific shield model shall be tested with that shield
model to demonstrate the increased level of ballistic protection.
7.2.2 Multi-panel shields shall be tested to assess joints between panels.
7.3 The fair hit requirements shall apply as listed in Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 5.3, Fair Hit Requirements.
7.4 Cluster shot requirements shall apply as listed in Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 5.4, Cluster Shot Requirements.
7.5 Determination of shot results shall be done in accordance with Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 5.7, Determination
of Shot Result.
7.6 The supplier shall identify nonballistic-resistant portions of shields (such as rifle supports on the sides).
8. Test Item Requirements
8.1 Test items shall meet the requirements specified in Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 4.1, Test Item Requirements.
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8.2 The manufacturer shall submit as test items shields identical in ballistic layup and construction to those sold in the
marketplace.
8.2.1 Test items shall be fully assembled products that are sized as specified in Sections 11 and 12 of this specification.
8.2.2 All test items shall be identical in materials of construction and material configuration. Test items of the same size shall be
identical in construction.
8.3 The manufacturer shall provide a build sheet and dimensioned diagram indicating the location of hardware (including
fasteners), potential weak points, interfaces between the viewport and shield body, and thickness of viewport.
8.3.1 The build sheet and dimensioned diagram shall show areas of increased protection (for example, an applique or “plus up”).
8.4 The number of test items required for ballistic testing is specified in Sections 11 and 12 of this specification.
NOTE 3—The number of test items required may increase if the ballistic layup changes over the shield body or if there are unique body edges, unique
fasteners, and unique weak points.
9. Procedure for Visual Examination
9.1 Verify the group of test items for correct quantity and sizes.
9.2 Examine each test item exterior for defects as specified in Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 4.2.
9.3 Examine the group of test items for variations in appearance, materials, and manner of construction as specified in Test Method
E3141/E3141M, subsection 4.3.
9.4 Examine the group of test items as specified in Test Method E3141/E3141M, subsection 4.4, to identify regions of identical
construction and regions of unique construction.
9.5 Prior to conditioning, photograph at least one test item.
9.6 Following conditioning, examine the test items for visible damage due to conditioning and photograph any test items showing
such damage.
10. Ballistic Protection Levels and Test Threats
10.1 This specification identifies five ASTM shield ballistic protection levels, one for handgun (HG) protection, three for rifle (RF)
protection, and one for shotgun (SG) protection:
10.1.1 ASTM-Shield-HG2;
10.1.2 ASTM-Shield-RF1;
10.1.3 ASTM-Shield-RF2;
10.1.4 ASTM-Shield-RF3; and
10.1.5 ASTM-Shield-SG.
10.2 The ballistic protection levels and associated ballistic test threats are as shown in Annex A1, Table A1.1.
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11. Ballistic Performance Requirements for Handgun-rated Shields
11.1 The test item shall be tested as specified in Test Method E3141/E3141M, Section 7, Ballistic Resistance Test Procedures, with
the following modifications:
11.1.1 The manufacturer shall declare the dimensions of smallest and largest shields that will be sold in the marketplace.
11.1.2 There are two conditioning sequences which shall be completed to satisfy the requirements of this specification. At least
two shields shall be submitted for each of the following conditioning sequences prior to ballistic testing:
11.1.2.1 Sequence 1:
(1) Controlled ambient conditioning;
(2) Thermal shock conditioning;
(3) Controlled ambient conditioning;
(4) Submersion conditioning; then
(5) Low temperature conditioning.
11.1.2.2 Sequence 2:
(1) Controlled ambient conditioning;
(2) Thermal shock conditioning;
(3) Controlled ambient conditioning;
(4) Submersion conditioning; then
(5) High temperature conditioning.
11.1.3 Following low or high temperatur
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