Guides
Pick the right lock the first time.
Short, no-nonsense guides from the Lock Depot bench — organized by manufacturer. Which lever, which closer, which exit device, and how to spec it right.
Schlage
BUYING GUIDESchlage AL Series: The Grade 2 Lever for a Light Commercial Door
A locksmith on the Schlage AL Grade 2 lever for a light commercial door: when Grade 2 beats paying for the ND, passage vs entry vs storeroom function, and the S
BUYING GUIDESchlage LE-Series: Wireless Lockdown for a Mortise Door
Schlage LE-Series wireless mortise lock: lockdown control for a door you can't rewire. Storeroom vs privacy/office, real SKUs, and the ENGAGE Gateway catch.
BUYING GUIDESchlage L9080: Choosing an L-Series Lock for Coastal Doors
Salt air eats plated hardware fast. A locksmith on picking the right Schlage L-Series function and finish for an exterior door near the water.
BUYING GUIDESchlage CO-100: Keypad Lock for One Door, No Wiring
Schlage CO-100-CY-70-KP keypad lock adds pushbutton code access to one storeroom or classroom door, no wiring. FSIC or SFIC. Phone orders only.
BUYING GUIDESchlage L9080: A Finish That Won't Rust on a Coastal Door
Schlage L9080 storeroom mortise lock: why satin stainless (630) beats satin chrome (626) on a coastal exterior door, plus matching the L9453 and L9010 function.
BUYING GUIDESchlage HL6: A Push-Pull Latch for a Hospital Corridor
A locksmith on the Schlage HL6 push-pull latch: why levers die on cart corridors, standard function versus the 9010 mortise version, PL7 versus PL8, and SOC scr
Von Duprin
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin 6111: Electric Strike for a Fire-Rated Panic Bar
Adding card access to a fire-rated door that already has a panic bar. A locksmith on the Von Duprin 6111, the 3031 drop-in retrofit, fail-secure on a rated open
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin 22 Series: Exit Only, No Trim, No Way Back In
The Von Duprin 22 Series has no cylinder, no outside trim. A locksmith on the fire-rated pair version and the strike-depth gotcha that causes callbacks.
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin 6215: Fail-Safe or Fail-Secure Electric Strike
A locksmith on Von Duprin's 6215 electric strike, fail-safe versus fail-secure, and why ordering the wrong mode fails a door the wrong way.
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin QEL-9848: The Exit Device Access Control Needs
A locksmith on the Von Duprin QEL-9848's Quiet Electric Latch option, why a standard electrified exit device gets loud on a high-cycle access-controlled door, a
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin 3547A: A Fire-Rated Exit Device for a Stairwell
Von Duprin 3547A: a UL-listed, fire-rated concealed vertical rod exit device for a stairwell door. Exit-only or night latch, non-handed, 10-year warranty.
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin 6211 vs 6211WF: Standard or Wide Faceplate
Von Duprin 6211 vs 6211WF electric strike: same fail-secure 12VDC internals, different faceplate size, for a clean prep or a rough Folger Adam retrofit.
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin RX+QEL: Wiring Request-to-Exit Into a 99 Bar
Von Duprin RX plus QEL on the 99 Series: factory request-to-exit monitoring paired with quiet electric latch retraction, for a fully access-integrated exit devi
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin 88 Series: A Budget Rim Exit for a Plain Door
Von Duprin 88 Series narrow-stile pushpad rim exit device, Grade 1 and UL listed, built for a non-fire-rated storefront or storage door that doesn't need a fire
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin 6300: A Fire-Rated Strike You Surface-Mount, No Cutting the Frame
Von Duprin 6300 fire-rated electric strike: surface-mount with no frame cutting, UL10C 3-hour rating, fail-secure only, 12/24VDC, and when to pick it over the c
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin EL98TP: When Your Panic Bar Needs Electric Latch Retraction
Von Duprin EL98TP adds Electric Latch Retraction to a 98 Series rim device, for a 99 panic bar whose Classroom or Exit-Only trim cannot give card access a way i
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin 990 Series Trim: NL, DT, or EO for a 98/99 Exit Device
Von Duprin 990 series trim compared: night latch (NL), dummy pull-when-dogged (DT), and exit-only (EO), so you fix a 98/99 reentry problem without replacing the
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin 35A: Exit Only, Dummy, Night Latch or Lever
Von Duprin 35A touch bar is the same on every version. Exit only, dummy trim, night latch or lever decide the outside. Grade 1, 10-year warranty.
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin 55 vs 35A: Measure the Stile First
Von Duprin 55 is the narrow stile rim exit device (1-3/4 in. minimum, handed). The 35A suits stiles 4 in. or wider and reverses in the field.
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin 98, 9847, 9857, 9875 Exit Only: Pick the Latching
Von Duprin exit-only: 98 is rim, 9847 and 9848 concealed vertical rod, 9857 surface three-point, 9875 mortise. All Grade 1, hex key dogging, non fire-rated.
BUYING GUIDEVon Duprin 2670 Guard-X: Alarmed Exit for a Secondary Door
Von Duprin 2670 Guard-X exit alarm lock: key arm and disarm, 36 to 48 inch doors, Grade 1 panic hardware, three finishes. Specs and fit notes.
LCN
BUYING GUIDELCN 3133: A Concealed Closer That Lets Go on the Alarm
The LCN 3133 holds a corridor fire door open for cart traffic and releases the instant the alarm trips. A locksmith on concealed vs surface closers.
BUYING GUIDELCN 1460: Which Part Is Failing When It Slams or Drags
LCN 1460 surface closer troubleshooting: spring, backcheck, and mounting plate, and which failed part is actually behind a door that slams, drags, or won't hold
BUYING GUIDELCN 2033: Standard Arm or Hold-Open Arm Concealed Closer
LCN 2033 concealed overhead closer with a standard arm or a hold-open arm: what changes inside the door, and which one a cart-traffic corridor actually needs.
BUYING GUIDELCN 4110 Series Arm: EDA, CNS, or the Blade-Stop Spacer
LCN 4110 replacement arm guide: Extra Duty Arm (EDA) vs Cush-N-Stop (CNS), plus when the blade-stop spacer is the actual fix for a parallel-arm install that won
BUYING GUIDELCN 2010: A Concealed Closer for No Face Hardware
LCN's 2010 hides the closer inside the door itself for openings that can't show hardware on the face. A locksmith on when it's worth the install, and when it is
HES
BUYING GUIDEHES 9600: The Windstorm-Rated Strike for a Coastal Door
Submittal rejected at the strike line? A locksmith on the HES 9600: ANSI/SDI 250.13 windstorm certified, Florida Building Code approved, what the static and dyn
BUYING GUIDEHES 8300C: A Fire-Rated Strike for a No-Cut Retrofit
HES 8300C fire-rated electric strike: no-cut retrofit into a rated frame, UL 10C listed, with or without a latchbolt monitor. In stock, ships today.
BUYING GUIDEHES 9400 Slim-Line: A Surface-Mount Strike for a Frame You Can't Cut
A locksmith on the HES 9400 Slim-Line electric strike, a 5/8" surface-mount that needs no frame cutting, and when to reach for it over the 9500 or 9600.
BUYING GUIDEHES 1006: Latchbolt Monitor, Deadbolt, or Recapture
HES 1006 electric strike in three faceplate packs: latchbolt with monitor, standard deadbolt, or deadbolt recapture for an interconnected lockset. How to match
BUYING GUIDEHES Electric Strike or Von Duprin 6300: When a Maglock Makes More Sense
An honest electric-strike-vs-maglock call for a commercial door: HES 1006/1500 and the Von Duprin 6300, fail-safe vs fail-secure, code requirements, and when a
BUYING GUIDEHES SMART Pac III: Protecting a Strike From Dirty Power
HES SMART Pac III filters dirty power ahead of a strike's solenoid and doubles the HES warranty from 5 to 10 years. Cheap insurance on an old panel.
BUYING GUIDEHES 7501: The Fire-Rated Strike That Handles Door Preload
The HES 7501 is the fire-rated strike built to release under door preload where a standard strike binds. A locksmith on when to spec it over the 1006 or 5000.
BUYING GUIDEHES 1600 CS vs CLB vs CDB vs 1500C Electric Strike
HES 1600 complete pacs: CS latchbolt and deadbolt, CLB latchbolt, CDB deadbolt, and how the 1500C differs. Match the strike to your lock.
BUYING GUIDEHES 150 vs RCI 930-LG Latch Guard
HES 150 and RCI 930-LG stainless latch guards cover the latch and electric strike against pry attack. Which one fits mortise, cylindrical or HES strikes.
Sargent
BUYING GUIDESargent 7800: A Mortise Knob for a Non-Public Door
Not every door needs a lever. A locksmith on the Sargent 7800 mortise knob, the Grade 1 case it shares with the 8200 lever, and picking the right function.
BUYING GUIDESargent 6500 or 8200: Cylindrical or Mortise for a School Corridor
A locksmith on Sargent's 6500 cylindrical and 8200 mortise locks, what the door prep already tells you, and why re-prepping a working door for a heavier case ra
BUYING GUIDESargent 484 vs 485 vs 486: Deadbolt Near Glass
Sargent 480 Series auxiliary deadbolt: double cylinder (484), single cylinder with thumbturn (485), or blank plate (486). Which one a door with glass near the l
BUYING GUIDESargent 6300 LFIC Core: Picking the Right Keyway Letter
A locksmith on Sargent's 6300 LFIC core: why the keyway letter, not the finish, decides fit, and keyed-alike vs. keyed-different before you order.
BUYING GUIDESargent 281 Closer: Standard, Hold-Open or Heavy-Duty Arm
Sargent 281 Powerglide part numbers name the arm: O standard, H hold-open, O8 mortise foot, O10 heavy duty. Grade 1, UL fire-rated listed. How to pick.
BUYING GUIDESargent 7 Line: 7G04, 7G05, 7G37 or 7U68 Function
Sargent 7 Line Grade 2 cylindrical: 7G04 storeroom, 7G05 entrance/office, 7G37 classroom, 7U68 privacy. Standard 161 prep, 5-year warranty. Pick by room.
BUYING GUIDESargent 8204 vs 8205 vs 8237 Mortise Lock
Sargent 8200 mortise lock functions compared: 8204 storeroom, 8205 entry/office and 8237 classroom. Who gets in, what relocks, Grade 1, cylinder included.
BUYING GUIDESargent 8224, 8225, 8267, 8289 Compared
Sargent 8200 hotel guest 8224, dormitory 8225, institution 8267 and holdback 8289 mortise locks: deadbolt, thumbturn, key-only and how to choose.
Yale
BUYING GUIDEYale 7100F vs 7100: The Fire-Rated Rim Exit Decision
A locksmith on the Yale 7100F versus the 7100: what the F changes, why a rated door can never be dogged, electric latch retraction as the legal fix, and reading
BUYING GUIDEYale 7110F vs 7120F: Surface or Concealed Rod on a Pair
Ordering a rated pair? Yale's 7110F, 7120F, 7110, and 7120 vertical rod devices split on surface vs concealed rod, and on fire rating. Here's how to pick.
BUYING GUIDEYale (Accentra) 4706LN: The Lock With a Visual Indicator
A locksmith on the Yale 4700LN Service Station function, the visual indicator most buyers never order, and when it earns its keep over plain Storeroom.
BUYING GUIDEYale 5400LN: Corridor or Communicating Classroom Function
Yale 5400LN cylindrical lock in Corridor or Communicating Classroom function: what each one actually locks, and why guessing gets the wrong hardware on a school
BUYING GUIDEYale 4700LN Double Cylinder: 4718, 4721 or 4730
Yale (Accentra) 4700LN double cylinder: AU4718LN classroom security, AU4721LN communicating, AU4730LN institutional asylum. Grade 1 cylindrical, key both sides.
BUYING GUIDEYale 8800FL Deadbolt Mortise: 8847, 8860, 8861, 8867
Yale (Accentra) 8800FL mortise locks with a deadbolt: 8847 entrance, 8860, 8861 and 8867 dormitory, 8823 storeroom. Pick the right function.
BUYING GUIDEYale 8800FL 8807 vs 8808 vs 8809: Entrance or Classroom
Yale (Accentra) 8800FL mortise locks without a deadbolt: 8807 entrance, 8808 classroom, 8809 classroom or office, plus 8829 closet and 8833 exit.
BUYING GUIDEYale 5400LN Non-Keyed: AU5401 to AU5409
Yale 5400LN non-keyed levers compared: AU5401 passage, AU5402 privacy, AU5403 patio and AU5409 exit latch. Backset, door thickness, which door each fits.
Corbin Russwin
BUYING GUIDECorbin Russwin CL3300: Extra-Heavy-Duty Cylindrical for a Campus Door
A locksmith on the Corbin Russwin CL3300 extra-heavy-duty Grade 1 cylindrical lock for a high-traffic campus door: classroom vs storeroom vs passage, the lockdo
BUYING GUIDECorbin Russwin ED5200 vs ED5400: Rim or Vertical Rod
A locksmith on Corbin Russwin's ED5200 rim exit device versus the ED5400 vertical rod device, and which frame condition actually decides between them.
BUYING GUIDECorbin Russwin ML2010 vs ML2050: Passage or Dummy Trim
Corbin Russwin ML2010 passage lockset or ML2050 half dummy trim: which one the inactive leaf of a pair, or a closet door, actually needs.
BUYING GUIDECorbin Russwin ML2057 vs ML2059: Does Your Storeroom Need the Add-On Deadbolt
Both are ML2000 storeroom function. The ML2059 adds a deadbolt in the same mortise case for a room, narcotics, servers, evidence, cash, that needs a second lock
BUYING GUIDECorbin Russwin ML2020: Privacy Function With an Emergency Release
Corbin Russwin ML2020 Grade 1 mortise lockset: privacy thumbturn plus a staff emergency release, and why it beats a residential lock on a bathroom or bedroom do
BUYING GUIDECorbin Russwin ML2003 vs ML2002 vs ML2032
Corbin Russwin ML2000 classroom ML2003, classroom intruder ML2002, institution ML2032 and institution privacy ML2069 mortise locks compared.
BUYING GUIDECorbin Russwin ML2053 vs ML2058 vs ML2024
Corbin Russwin ML2000 entrance ML2053, entrance holdback ML2058, entrance with deadbolt ML2024 and privacy ML2068 mortise locks: which door each fits.
Adams Rite
BUYING GUIDEAdams Rite 4300 Steel Hawk: Access Control for a Storefront Door
A locksmith on the Adams Rite 4300 Steel Hawk electrified latch for an aluminum storefront: buzz-in access with no maglock, fail-secure vs fail-safe, and pickin
TROUBLESHOOTINGAdams Rite 4510: Fix a Storefront Door That Won't Latch
A 30-year locksmith on the Adams Rite 4510 deadlatch: the ten-second plunger test that tells a worn latch from a bad strike or a sagging door, and how to order
BUYING GUIDEAdams Rite 7400: Electric Strike for a Door Under Preload
The strike buzzes and the door will not open on a windy afternoon. That is preload. A locksmith on the Adams Rite 7400 UltraLine, fail-safe vs fail-secure, and
BUYING GUIDEAdams Rite 4591 Paddle: Handing a Storefront Exit Correctly
A locksmith on the Adams Rite 4591 deadlatch paddle: calling the hand from the sidewalk, matching the paddle to the 4510 or 4900 behind it, and why 313 never qu
BUYING GUIDEAdams Rite 1870 Flushbolt: Aluminum, Hollow Metal, or Wood
Adams Rite 1870 flushbolt for the inactive leaf of a door pair: aluminum, hollow metal, or wood. Cylinder-operated, made in the USA. In stock now.
BUYING GUIDEAdams Rite 8200 vs 8802: Vertical Rod or Rim Exit Device
Adams Rite 8200 surface vertical rod or 8802 rim exit device for a narrow-stile aluminum door: which one the pair needs, and what the 8802's monitoring switch r
BUYING GUIDEAdams Rite 4070: Matching Backset to a Narrow-Stile Door
Adams Rite's 4070 short-throw deadbolt ships in three backsets for narrow-stile doors. A locksmith on measuring the right one before you order, not after.
BUYING GUIDEAdams Rite 3080E Trim: Pick the Exit Device Code
Adams Rite 3080E electrified entry trim: how the 31, 33, 34, 36 and 37 codes match your exit device, cylinder hole vs blank trim, fail-secure.
BUYING GUIDEAdams Rite 3080E: 12V vs 24V, Lever, Handing
Adams Rite 3080E part number decoded: curve, round or square lever, handing 0, 7 or 8, 12 VDC vs 24 VDC fail-secure, US3 and US32 finish.
Detex
BUYING GUIDEDetex Advantex 10: The Exit Device for a Door That Gets Abused
A gym door that eats panic bars. A locksmith on the Detex Advantex 10: wide versus narrow stile, rim versus vertical rod, cylinder dogging, and what a fire rati
BUYING GUIDEDetex EAX-2500 vs EAX-3500: Prop Alarm or Timed Bypass
A locksmith on Detex's EAX-2500 straight door-prop alarm vs the EAX-3500 timed-bypass alarm, and which one fits a door that gets propped for legitimate reasons.
BUYING GUIDEDetex V40: Cylinder Dogging or Less Dogging for a Storefront Exit
A locksmith on the Detex V40 exit device, cylinder dogging for a busy storefront versus less dogging for a fire-rated door, and why code decides it, not conveni
BUYING GUIDEDetex V50: Battery Alarm or Hex Dogging Exit Device
Detex V50 EB is a battery-powered exit alarm with cylinder dogging. V50 HD is plain Grade 1 hex-dogging panic hardware with no electronics. Same body, different
BUYING GUIDEDetex EAX-500 vs EAX-300: An Alarm for a Door That Keeps Getting Propped
Detex EAX-500 vs EAX-300 door-prop exit alarms compared: die-cast frame-mount with a rekeyable reset vs a lightweight header-mount unit, and how to pick the rig
BUYING GUIDEDetex MS-1039S, MS-2049S, 2049F, 2049SI: Which Contact
Detex magnetic contacts for EAX exit alarms: MS-1039S balanced switch, MS-2049S surface, MS-2049F flush, MS-2049SI in-swinging. Pick by door and frame.
BUYING GUIDEDetex EAX-500 vs EAX-500W Weatherized Door Alarm
Detex EAX-500 vs weatherized EAX-500W battery exit alarm: 95 dB, 9V, no wiring, gray or black, SK1-SK6 switch kits. Which for an outdoor door.
BUYING GUIDEDetex V40 HD, EB, EA, EE and FV40 Compared
Detex V40 rim exit device suffixes explained: HD hex dogging, EB battery alarm, EA hardwired, EE delayed egress and fire-rated FV40. Pick by door.
Norton
Falcon
BUYING GUIDEFalcon T561 vs T581: Classroom or Storeroom Lock for a School Door
Classroom and storeroom locks look identical on the shelf. Here's how the Falcon T561 and T581 actually differ, and which one belongs on a school door.
BUYING GUIDEFalcon MA561 vs MA581: Classroom or Storeroom Function
A locksmith on Falcon's MA561 classroom and MA581 storeroom mortise functions, and how to match the right one to how a room actually gets used.
BUYING GUIDEFalcon 24 vs 25 Series: Same Grade 1, Different Price
Falcon 24 vs 25 Series exit devices: both Grade 1, same catalog spec, different price. What the documentation actually says before you pick one.
BUYING GUIDEFalcon MA531 vs MA521: Apartment or Entry/Office Function
Falcon MA531 Apartment vs MA521 Entry/Office mortise lock function compared, so a multi-family building orders the right after-hours lockdown behavior for each
BUYING GUIDEFalcon B501PD vs B511PD vs B561PD: Pick the Function
Falcon B Series Grade 1 levers: B501 entry with turn-button, B511 entry/office with push-button, B561 classroom with no inside button. Dane or Quantum.
BUYING GUIDEFalcon T381PD or T411PD: Classroom Security vs Asylum Lock
Falcon T Series Grade 1 cylindrical: T381PD classroom security (key inside locks the outside lever, inside free) vs T411PD asylum (key each side). Same price.
Trine
BUYING GUIDETrine 2012 vs 2012C: A Strike Before You Know the Voltage
Trine's 2012-RS is DC-only and Fail Safe. The 2012C runs AC or DC across a voltage range. Here's how to pick before your access panel is even spec'd.
BUYING GUIDETrine 598 vs 5205: Clamp-On or Plug-In Strike Power
Trine 598 clamp-on transformer for a door with existing low-voltage wiring, or the 5205 plug-in for a retrofit with none. How to match either to your strike's v
BUYING GUIDETrine 012, 004C, or 1002: Strike Faceplate Size
Trine 012, 004C, or 1002 series electric strike: three faceplate widths for the same fail-secure light commercial strike, matched to the existing frame cutout.
BUYING GUIDETrine EN-CA-12DC vs 24AC: Matching Coil Voltage to Your Strike Wiring
A buzzing or weak Trine EN Series strike is usually a coil mismatch, not a bad strike. Match voltage and AC/DC type before ordering a replacement.
BUYING GUIDETrine EN950 vs EN960: Universal Strike for Any Lock
Trine EN950 vs EN960 universal electric strikes: cylindrical or mortise, ANSI 4-7/8 faceplate, fail secure. EN960 is for doors with heavy traffic.
Securitron
BUYING GUIDESecuritron MK vs MKA: Momentary or Maintained Keyswitch
Momentary or maintained? Here's how to pick between the Securitron MK and MKA keyswitch for a maglock, plus narrow-stile options for storefront doors.
BUYING GUIDESecuritron DK-12 vs DK-26SS: Indoor or Weatherproof Keypad?
Deciding between the Securitron DK-12 and DK-26SS keypads? It comes down to indoor vs. weather exposure and wall vs. narrow-stile mounting.
BUYING GUIDESecuritron M62, M32, or M34R: Match Holding Force
Securitron MagnaLock M62 (1200 lbs), M32 (600 lbs, fire rated), or M34R (500 lbs, recessed for sliding doors): matching maglock holding force to the actual thre
BUYING GUIDESecuritron DPS-M vs DPS-W: Metal or Wood Door Switch
DPS-M is sized for a steel door's magnetic shielding at a half-inch depth. DPS-W is the wood-door version at 15/16 inch. Same switch, different door material.
BUYING GUIDESecuritron EPT vs CEPT: Surface or Concealed Power Transfer
Securitron EPT and CEPT move power across a hinge line to an electrified lock. EPT installs fast and shows; CEPT is concealed and rated for more current.
BUYING GUIDESecuritron GL1 Gate Lock: Fail Safe or Fail Locked
Securitron GL1 gate lock holds 2,000 lbs under preload. Fail safe or fail locked, with or without a monitored contact, for your gate.
BUYING GUIDESecuritron EEB2 vs EEB3N Emergency Exit Button
Securitron EEB2 vs EEB3N emergency exit buttons for a maglock door: 30 second release, single gang vs narrow stile, 12/24 VDC, indoor only.
BUYING GUIDESecuritron XDT vs BA-XDT vs FA-XDT Exit Delay Timer
Securitron XDT exit delay timer: board only, FA flush plate or BA boxed alarm with sounder. Retail and memory care delayed egress, 12 or 24 volt.
Kaba Ilco Simplex
BUYING GUIDESimplex 1011 vs LR1011: Knob or Lever for ADA Compliance
A locksmith on Simplex's 1011 knob versus the LR1011 lever mechanical pushbutton lock, why the trim decides ADA compliance, and when to step up to a key overrid
BUYING GUIDEKaba Ilco 26026: A Zero-Bitted LFIC Core for IC Keying
Kaba Ilco 26026 large-format interchangeable core, built to the Schlage figure-8 profile in a C keyway, for expanding or repairing an LFIC system without OEM le
BUYING GUIDESimplex 9661 vs 9671: Matching a Cabinet Lock to Your Door Gauge
A locksmith on Simplex's 9661C10 and 9671C10 cabinet locks: why sheet-metal gauge decides which one you order, and how to measure your enclosure door first.
BUYING GUIDESimplex 5010MWL vs 5010XKWL: Medeco or Kaba Key Override
Simplex 5010MWL is prepped for a Medeco LFIC, core sold separately. The 5010XKWL ships with a Kaba 90 keyway cylinder. Mechanical, no batteries.
BUYING GUIDESimplex LLP1020 vs LRP1020: Hand and Key Override Core
Simplex LP1000 exit trim: LLP is left hand, LRP is right hand. The letter B, C, M, R or S names the key override core. Core sold separately.
BUYING GUIDESimplex 5011MWL vs 5015MWL vs 5016MWL vs 5017MWL
Simplex 5000 Series pushbutton locks with Medeco override: 5011MWL 1/2 in. throw, 5015MWL 3/4 in., 5016MWL mortise, 5017MWL mortise with deadbolt.
Rixson
BUYING GUIDERixson 27-180N vs 27-180A: Hold-Open or Not
A locksmith on Rixson's 27-180N non hold-open versus the 27-180A automatic hold-open floor closer, same body and rating, and which doors actually need a door th
BUYING GUIDERixson PH27: A Floor Closer That Meets ADA Opening Force on a Heavy Door
Rixson's PH27 is the 27 Series floor closer built to meet ADA opening-force limits on a heavy pivoted or glass door. When to spec the PH version over the standa
BUYING GUIDERixson 27 vs F27: Fire-Rated or Standard Offset Hung Floor Closer
The Rixson 27 ships with a standard top pivot. The F27 ships fire-rated with an F180 pivot. Check the door schedule before you order either one.
BUYING GUIDERixson 27-85N-CWF: Cold Weather Fluid for Exterior Doors
Rixson 27-85N-CWF listings carry cold weather fluid for exterior doors under 32 F for weeks. Same 450 lb closer as the standard, non fire rated.
Glynn Johnson
BUYING GUIDESchlage HL6: A Push-Pull Latch for a Hospital Corridor
A locksmith on the Schlage HL6 push-pull latch: why levers die on cart corridors, standard function versus the 9010 mortise version, PL7 versus PL8, and SOC scr
BUYING GUIDEGlynn-Johnson 411H vs 411S: Hold-Open or Just a Stop
Glynn-Johnson's 410 Series concealed overhead arm comes in three functions: hold-open, friction hold, or stop-only. Here's how a locksmith picks.
BUYING GUIDEGlynn-Johnson 902H: A Heavy-Duty Hold-Open Past the 450
Glynn-Johnson 902H heavy-duty surface overhead hold-open, when the compact 450 stop can't handle the traffic. Fits 23-1/16 to 27 in. openings. In stock.
BUYING GUIDEGlynn-Johnson 702H vs 706H: Sizing the 70 Series to Your Door Width
Glynn-Johnson 702H fits a 23-27 inch door opening. The 706H fits 45-54 inches. Here's how to size the 70 Series overhead stop correctly.
BUYING GUIDEGlynn-Johnson 792H, 793H, 794H: Pick the Hold-Open by Width
Glynn-Johnson 79 series heavy duty overhead hold open: 792H fits 23-1/16 to 27 in., 793H 27-1/16 to 33 in., 794H 33-1/16 to 39 in. Quarter turn ends the hold.
BUYING GUIDEGlynn Johnson 90 Series: 902H to 906H by Door Width
Glynn Johnson 90 Series overhead holders 902 to 906: match the model to door width, hold-open H or stop-only S, 85-110 degree hold, finishes.
Don Jo
BUYING GUIDEFlush Bolts and a Coordinator for a Pair of Doors
A locksmith on flush bolts and a coordinator for a pair of doors: metal vs wood flush bolts, the dust-proof strike, why the coordinator matters, and rated-pair
BUYING GUIDEDon-Jo Door Stops: The Height That Actually Stops a Doorknob
A wall bumper only works if it clears your baseboard. Don-Jo stocks door stops from 1-5/16" to 3-7/8" tall so the bumper catches the knob, not the wall.
BUYING GUIDEDon-Jo Wrap-Around Plate: Covering a Lock Swap's Old Holes
Swapping lock brands leaves mismatched holes and loose mounting screws. A Don-Jo wrap-around plate covers the old cutout and reinforces the new lock's bore.
BUYING GUIDEDon-Jo DCB-340 vs DCB-350: Sizing a Strike Reinforcement Plate
A mismatched strike cutout leaves a loose, rattling strike plate. Don-Jo's DCB-340 and DCB-350 fill and reinforce two common strike opening sizes.
BUYING GUIDEDon-Jo Door Viewer: DV-90, DV-180, or the UL-Rated ULDV
Don-Jo door viewers in three builds: 160 or 180 degree angle, plastic or glass lens, and a UL-rated ULDV for fire doors. Matching one to your door and code.
BUYING GUIDEDon Jo ST-214 vs ST-261 vs ST-386: Which Strike Plate
Don Jo ST-214 (2-1/4 in., 18 ga), ST-261 (4-7/8 in., 13 ga) and ST-386 ANSI conversion plate compared by size, gauge, screws and finish.
BUYING GUIDEDon Jo KP Kick Plates: Height, Length, Finish
How to read Don Jo KP kick plate part numbers: 6 in. vs 8 in. height, 28 to 34 in. length, and brass, aluminum or stainless finish. Screws included.
Altronix
BUYING GUIDEAltronix LPS3C24X: Power Supply for a Maglock Door
A locksmith on sizing the power supply for an access-controlled door: why the cheaper 24VAC camera supply will not run a DC maglock, what battery backup is real
BUYING GUIDEAltronix AL600ULACM: Power for Fail-Safe Locks on Several Doors
Altronix AL600ULACM power supply and access power controller for fail-safe locks on multiple doors, with built-in fire alarm disconnect. Sizing notes.
BUYING GUIDEAltronix RB30 vs RB1224: Relay for a No-Contact Panel
Altronix RB30 vs RB1224 relay modules: 30-amp SPST for a high-current load like a maglock, or 5-amp DPDT to switch two circuits off one access panel trigger.
BUYING GUIDEAltronix ACM8CB: Powering Eight Doors From One Access Panel
Altronix ACM8CB vs PD4UL vs MOM5: which power distribution module fits a multi-door access job, switched outputs or simple distribution.
BUYING GUIDEAltronix ALTV248 vs ALTV244175UL vs ALTV1224DC Power
Altronix ALTV CCTV camera power supplies: ALTV248 8-output 24/28VAC, ALTV244175UL 7 amp 4-output, ALTV1224DC 12/24VDC. Pick AC or DC first.
BUYING GUIDEAltronix PT724A: Unlock a Door on a Schedule
Altronix PT724A 365 day event timer: 50 events, 10 holidays, 10 amp Form C relay, battery charger. Schedule a door to unlock and lock itself.
Olympus
BUYING GUIDEOlympus 800LCM: Cabinet Deadbolt on Your Building's Keyway
A locksmith on the Olympus 800LCM Grade 1 cabinet drawer deadbolt: why less cylinder is the point, keying a pharmacy or lab cabinet into the building master, an
BUYING GUIDEOlympus DCR4 vs DCN4: Keying a Row of File Cabinets Alike
Olympus DCR4 vs DCN4 cam locks for keying a bank of file cabinets alike: R Series vs N Series pin count, keyed-alike codes, and install notes.
BUYING GUIDEOlympus 725: An SFIC Cabinet Lock That Matches Your Cores
Olympus 725 SFIC cabinet lock: surface latch or rim deadbolt, keyed to the same interchangeable cores already running the rest of your building.
BUYING GUIDEOlympus 200DW: Keyed Alike or Keyed Different Drawer Lock
The 200DW-KD is keyed different for private drawers. The 200DW-KA101 is keyed alike so one key opens the whole bank. Same lock body, different keying decision.
BUYING GUIDEOlympus N078 vs R078 vs T37 Rekeyable Drawer Lock
Olympus N078, R078 and T37 rekeyable drawer locks: 4 pin vs 5 pin, 7/8 vs 3/4 inch barrel, T-bolt replacement for the National C8137.
SDC
BUYING GUIDESDC 1511S: Delayed Egress for a Door That Keeps Walking
Merchandise walking out the back exit? A locksmith on the SDC 1511S ExitCheck integrated delayed egress lock: what holds, what releases it, when an exit alarm i
BUYING GUIDESDC 45 Series: One Electric Strike for a Frame You Can't Identify
Unmarked frame, job on Friday. A locksmith on the field-selectable SDC 45 Series electric strike: fail-safe vs fail-secure, matching voltage, and the preload tr
BUYING GUIDESDC Z7800: Electrified Lockset for a Fire-Rated Stairwell Door
SDC Z7800 electrified mortise lockset for stairwell and elevator lobby doors where code bans electric strikes and mag locks. Specs, handing, and FAQ.
BUYING GUIDESDC 55 UniFLEX: The Strike for a Rim Exit Device Retrofit
Adding access control to a door that already has a rim exit device? The SDC 55 UniFLEX strike retrofits the frame without touching the panic hardware.
BUYING GUIDESDC 1091 vs 1291: Fail-Safe or Fail-Secure Bolt
SDC 1091 vs 1291 Spacesaver mortise bolt: fail-safe or fail-secure for a narrow-frame door. Same hardware, opposite fail mode, real consequences.
BUYING GUIDESDC 30 Series: 12VDC or 24VDC Rim Strike Voltage
SDC 30-4-12 is wound for a 12VDC supply, the 30-4-24 for 24VDC. Same rim strike body; the wrong coil runs hot and fails slow, not on day one.
TownSteel
BUYING GUIDETownSteel MRX: Anti-Ligature Mortise Locks for a Patient Room
A locksmith on specifying TownSteel MRX anti-ligature mortise locks for behavioral health: arch trim vs knobs, function by room, handing, and the override quest
BUYING GUIDETownSteel MSS: A Heavy-Duty Mortise Lock That Isn't a Big Three Price
Forty doors and a big-three mortise quote that no longer works. A locksmith on the TownSteel MSS: where a value line earns its keep, and why keying is the real
BUYING GUIDETownSteel MSS: Office or Classroom Function for a School Door
TownSteel MSS Entry/Office vs Classroom function for a school corridor door: what each does, why mixing them causes lockouts, and how to order it right.
BUYING GUIDETownSteel MSS-06: A Mortise Function for a Door You Prop Open on Purpose
TownSteel's MSS-06 holdback function lets the inside lever hold the latch retracted on purpose, then relock on demand. When a holdback mortise lock replaces the
DynaLock
BUYING GUIDEDynaLock 2500 vs 2000 vs 3000: Sizing a Maglock by Holding Force
650, 1200 or 1500 lb? A locksmith on sizing a DynaLock maglock: what holding force is actually rated for, why a misaligned lock loses most of it, and swing befo
BUYING GUIDEDynaLock 2013: Maglock for an Outdoor Swing or Slide Gate
DynaLock 2013 maglock for an outdoor gate: standard, rear-wire-exit, and Dynastat variants explained, plus weatherproofing and backup power notes.
BUYING GUIDEDynaLock DSM2 vs HSM2: Maglock Monitor for a Panel
DynaLock 2000 Series DSM2 door status switch vs HSM2 high security monitor: two different signals for an access panel, on the same 1200 lb maglock body.
BUYING GUIDEDynaLock 7300 vs 7400: Metal or Weatherproof Keypad
DynaLock 7300 is a metal vandal-resistant keypad. The 7400 is IP65 weatherproof with backlit keys and REX input, built for an exterior door.
BUYING GUIDEDynaLock 6451: Sizing a Touch-Bar Exit Sensor to a Maglock Door
DynaLock 6451 touch-bar exit sensor for a maglock door: dual optical sensors plus a mechanical backup, and why the bar has to be sized to the actual door width,
BUYING GUIDEDynaLock 2022TJ vs 2022: Inswing or Outswing Maglock Bracket
DynaLock 2000 Series maglocks ship as TJ or standard models with identical specs. Here is how to tell which bracket fits an inswing or outswing door before you
BUYING GUIDEDynaLock 1300: What ARSB, DPSM and BPS Mean
DynaLock 1300 mortise electric deadbolt: auto-relock, door position and bolt position suffixes, fail-safe operation, and why it won't fit wood or panic doors.
IEI
BUYING GUIDEIEI 212W: A Keypad for a Door With No Access Control System
A keypad does not lock a door, it closes a relay. A locksmith on standalone IEI keypads: the three-part shopping list, flush vs surface vs mullion, and the egre
BUYING GUIDEIEI 232SE vs 212iLM: Surface-Mount or Mullion-Mount Keypad
A locksmith on IEI's 232SE surface-mount keypad versus the 212iLM mullion-mount keypad for a narrow aluminum storefront frame, and when you actually need to cut
BUYING GUIDEIEI 212i vs 212R: Indoor Keypad or Ruggedized Keypad for a Gate
The IEI 212i is indoor use only. The 212R is a weather-resistant, vandal-resistant housing for a gate or exterior wall. Here's the difference.
Ives
BUYING GUIDEIves 700 Continuous Hinge: For a Door That Keeps Tearing Out Hinges
Rehung three times and still sagging? A locksmith on the Ives 700 continuous hinge: why load concentrates at three points, and when a ball-bearing hinge is the
BUYING GUIDEIves 8400 Protection Plates: Sizing a Kick Plate That Fits
A locksmith on sizing Ives 8400 kick, mop and armor plates: the minus-2-inch rule on a single door, minus-1 on a pair, and why you measure the door and never th
BUYING GUIDEIves 8302 Pull Plates: Sizing a Pair of Doors Right
Ordering pull plates for a pair of doors? A locksmith on sizing, cutout placement, and keeping both leaves matched.
BUYING GUIDEIves 3CB1 vs 3PB1: Ball Bearing or Plain Bearing Hinge
Not every door needs a bearing hinge. Ives 3CB1 concealed bearing and 3PB1 plain bearing full-mortise hinges split by swing frequency, not by door type.
BUYING GUIDEIves FS1154: Stop Propping That Door With a Trash Can
The Ives FS1154 is a floor-mounted mechanical door holder for heavy doors staff keep propping unsafely. No wiring needed, ANSI/BHMA listed.
TROUBLESHOOTINGIves DP2-US26D: Fix a Flush Bolt That Won't Drop Clean
Bottom bolt on the inactive leaf binding again? A standard floor strike packs with grit. The DP2 dust-proof strike self-clears every time it retracts.
BUYING GUIDEIves 705 vs 715 vs 711 Continuous Hinge
Ives 705, 715 and 711 geared continuous hinges: full mortise full wrap, full mortise half wrap, or swing clear. Heights 83 to 120 in. and power transfer prep.
BUYING GUIDEIves 7212 Offset Pivot: Top, Bottom, Left, Right
Ives 7212 3/4 in. offset pivot sets for heavy doors: top vs bottom, left vs right hand, 200 lb door load, 3/16 in. vertical adjustment.
Arrow Lock
BUYING GUIDEArrow BM Mortise Lock: Which Function for an Institutional Door
A locksmith on the Arrow BM Grade 1 mortise lock for an institutional or multi-family door: storeroom vs apartment vs institutional-privacy function, handing, a
BUYING GUIDEArrow Lock D61 vs E61: Grade 1 or Grade 2 Deadbolt for a Rental Door
Same size, same backset, different grade stamped on the bolt. Here's what actually separates the Arrow D61 and E61 deadbolt, and which belongs on a rental door.
BUYING GUIDEArrow MK02 vs MK04: Lock It From Inside or From Outside
Arrow MK02 privacy locks from inside; MK04 patio locks from outside and stays free to exit. Which Grade 2 cylindrical function fits your door.
BUYING GUIDEArrow Lock 6-Pin vs 7-Pin SFIC Core: Which Fits Your BEST-Keyway System
Arrow Lock sells 6-pin and 7-pin uncombinated SFIC cores in the same A - Best keyway. The pin count changes keying capacity and core length, and a 7-pin core wo
BUYING GUIDEArrow 16CR vs 16CRT: Standard or Tapered SFIC Housing
16CR is a standard SFIC mortise cylinder housing. 16CRT is the tapered version for a lock case bored with a tapered cylinder pocket. Same core, same cam, differ
PHI
BUYING GUIDEPHI Apex 2100: A Von Duprin-Compatible Rim Exit Device
A locksmith on the PHI Apex 2100 rim exit device, a Grade 1 Von Duprin 98/99 alternative: how it drops into the same door prep, EO vs night-latch, and matching
BUYING GUIDEPHI 2600 vs 2700: Narrow or Wide Stile Concealed Rod
A locksmith on PHI's 2600 vs 2700 concealed vertical rod exit device: narrow-stile vs wide-stile chassis, shared Grade 1 specs, and why the catalog name can mis
BUYING GUIDEPHI 5000 Reliant: A Budget Exit Device for a Retail or Multifamily Door
A locksmith on the PHI 5000 Series Reliant, a non-fire-rated rim exit device built for retail and multifamily doors that don't need PHI's flagship line.
BUYING GUIDEPHI 2101 vs 2102 vs 2103 vs 2105: Apex 2100 Function Prep
PHI Apex 2100 exit device function preps compared: cover plate, dummy trim, key-retracts-latchbolt, key-controls-thumb-piece, order the right one.
BUYING GUIDEPHI 2300 Apex Mortise: 2301, 2302, 2303, 2305, 2308
PHI 2300 Series Apex mortise exit device: 2301 exit only, 2302 dummy trim, 2303 key retracts, 2305 thumb piece, 2308 lever. Pick the right prep.
Centrios
GMS
TROUBLESHOOTINGGMS Mortise Cylinder: A Same-Day Fix for a Dead Storefront Lock
GMS OEM-spec mortise cylinder with an Adams Rite cam and Kwikset keyway: a same-day drop-in fix for a failed storefront mortise lock, no re-key needed.
BUYING GUIDEGMS SFIC Key Blanks: Picking the Right Keyway Letter
GMS Best-format SFIC key blanks by keyway letter, from A to the T-series construction codes, and how to read the right letter off a core before you cut.
BUYING GUIDEGMS R118: A Rim Cylinder for a Kwikset-Keyed Night Latch
GMS R118 1-1/8 inch rim cylinder in a Kwikset keyway, built to OEM pinning specs, for swapping a worn night latch cylinder without replacing the whole latch bod
BUYING GUIDEGMS CIC LFIC Core: Large-Format Core for a Corbin Keyway
GMS CIC-CL4 large-format interchangeable core in the Corbin Russwin L4 keyway -- how LFIC differs from SFIC, and what hardware actually takes one.
Alarm
BUYING GUIDEAlarm Lock DL2700: A Keyless Lock for a Door With No Wiring
No panel, no network drop, no power at the door. A locksmith on the Alarm Lock DL2700: PIN vs prox, cylindrical vs narrow stile, and what standalone really cost
BUYING GUIDEAlarm Lock DL6100 Networx: Audit Trail, No Rewiring
A locksmith on Alarm Lock's Trilogy DL6100 Networx, the wireless audit trail it adds over the DL2700, and when the extra management earns its cost.
BUYING GUIDEAlarm Lock DL1300 vs PDL1300: PIN Only or Add a Prox Card
A locksmith on Alarm Lock's DL1300 PIN-only narrow-stile keypad lock versus the PDL1300 with a built-in prox reader, and when a storefront door actually needs b
BUYING GUIDEAlarm Lock PDK3000-26D: Keypad Access for a Gate, No Panel
A weatherproof PIN-or-prox keypad that runs its own strike or maglock at a gate or exterior door: standalone, 12/24V, with key override.
BUYING GUIDEAlarm Lock DL5300 vs PDL5300: Code Required on Both Sides
Alarm Lock DL5300 vs PDL5300: double-sided Trilogy keypad locks that require a code on the way out, not just the way in. PIN only or PIN plus prox.
BUYING GUIDEAlarm Lock PL3000 vs PL3000IC: Do You Need an IC Core?
Alarm Lock Trilogy PL3000 prox-only keyless lock with a standard Schlage C key override, or PL3000IC prepped for an interchangeable core: which cylinder your bu
BUYING GUIDEAlarm Lock Trilogy DL3500, PDL3500, PL3500: PIN or Prox
Alarm Lock Trilogy mortise: DL3500 PIN only, PL3500 prox only, PDL3500 PIN or prox, DL4500 privacy. Standalone, AA battery, 40,000 event audit trail.
BUYING GUIDEAlarm Lock PG21 vs PG30 vs PG30KPD Door Alarm
Alarm Lock PG21, PG30 and PG30KPD battery door alarms for a panic bar: 100 dB, 9V, no wiring. Which model for an emergency exit or back door.
Amsec
BUYING GUIDEAMSEC ESL10: Replacing a Mechanical Dial With a Keypad
Old dial slowing you down? Kent breaks down retrofitting an AMSEC ESL10 keypad lock, and how the ESL5, ESL10-XL, ESL10-S, and ESL20-XL tiers compare.
BUYING GUIDEAMSEC NF6030 vs SF6030: Burglary Rating or More Room for Your Guns
Same 59x30x26 footprint, two different gun safes. A locksmith compares AMSEC's NF6030 burglary-rated safe against the SF6030's extra interior room.
Arm A Dor
BUYING GUIDEArm-A-Dor A101: The Exit Device That Relocks Behind You
Staff prop the back door and somebody walks in. A locksmith on the Arm-A-Dor A101 automatic relock: alarm or not, the RX switch kit, and the one-way trap nobody
BUYING GUIDEArm-A-Dor A101 vs A102: Auto or Manual Relock on a Back Door
A locksmith on Arm-A-Dor's A101 automatic relock versus the A102 manual relock exit device, the alarm option on both, and which back door actually needs which o
ASP Alarm Control
BUYING GUIDEASP SW-1 vs SW-2 vs SW-3: Wiring a Keyswitch Station
ASP-SW-1 vs SW-2 vs SW-3 mortise cylinder keyswitch stations: momentary vs maintained switching and one vs two circuits for access control wiring.
BUYING GUIDEASP Explosion-Proof REX: Momentary or Latching Station
ASP explosion-proof request-to-exit stations are rated for hazardous locations. EXP-1 releases only while held; EXP-2 latches until pressed again.
BUYING GUIDEASP KP-200 vs KP-400: Which Keypad Fits an Exposed Door
ASP KP-200 mounts on a single-gang box; the KP-400 lists IP66, two relays and duress. How to pick a standalone keypad for a wet or exposed door.
BUYING GUIDEASP UT-1 vs MT-1: Programmable Timer for a Maglock Door
ASP UT-1 has four timing modes from 1 second to 1 hour at 12VDC. The MT-1 is a sealed one-shot, 2 to 45 seconds, 12-24 volts AC or DC.
BUYING GUIDEASP 600DDURO vs 600DLBDURO: Double-Door Maglock, Monitored
ASP 600DDURO is a plain 600 lb double-door maglock. The 600DLBDURO adds a status LED, bond sensor and door status sensor to prove the doors are locked.
BUYING GUIDEASP PS5 vs PN5 vs PT5: Vandal-Resistant Timed Push Plate
ASP PS5, PN5 and PT5 are solid 6061 aluminum push plates with a 2 to 60 second pneumatic delay. Gang-box, mullion and T-style mounting compared.
BUYING GUIDEASP 600S vs 1200S Maglock and Bracket Choice
ASP 600S vs 1200S single door magnetic locks: 600 vs 1,200 lb holding force, magnet sizes, 12/24 VDC, and the Z bracket for in-swinging doors.
BUYING GUIDEASP DE-1 vs KR-1 vs EB-1 Egress Stations
ASP-DE-1 delayed egress, ASP-KR-1 latching key reset panic station, ASP-EB-1 exit button and ASP-TS-34 buzzer: what each does and which door needs it.
BEST
BUYING GUIDEBEST 45H vs 9K: Mortise or Cylindrical for an SFIC School
A locksmith on the BEST 45H mortise versus the 9K cylindrical for a school: what the door prep decides, reading the 7D function code out of the SKU, and control
BUYING GUIDEBEST 8T-Series: An Auxiliary Deadbolt for Your SFIC Core
A locksmith on the BEST 8T27 auxiliary deadbolt, why its core housing takes your existing SFIC core, and where it actually belongs on a door.
BUYING GUIDEBEST 9K30 vs 9K37: Privacy or Entrance for a Dorm Suite Door
BEST 9K30 privacy function or 9K37 keyed entrance on the same 9K body: which goes on a dorm bedroom, which needs an SFIC core, and how to read the function code
BUYING GUIDEBest 40H Mortise Lock: Function and Lever Style
Best 40H heavy duty mortise lever lock: passage, privacy with deadbolt, office and storeroom functions, 2-3/4 in. backset, return styles, 7-pin core.
Camden
BUYING GUIDECamden CX-ED1420: A Fire-Rated Strike for a Shallow Jamb
Camden's CX-ED1420 is a 1-3/16-inch-deep, Grade 1, 90-minute fire-rated electric strike for cylindrical locks. Latch throw, wiring and fail mode explained.
BUYING GUIDECamden CM-30E: A Request-to-Exit Button for a Mag Lock or Strike
Camden CM-30E is a lit 2-inch Push to Exit button with SPDT Form C contacts rated 10 A. What it controls, how to wire it, and where to mount it.
Depository Safe
Folger Adam
BUYING GUIDEFolger Adam 310: The Electric Strike for Abused Doors
The Folger Adam 310 Series (310-2-24D-630 / 310-2-12D-630) is a Grade 1 fail secure strike built for detention and high-abuse doors, in 12VDC or 24VDC.
BUYING GUIDEFolger Adam 310 LCBMA: Monitoring a Detention Door Latch
Folger Adam 310 LCBMA electric strike: fail-secure, 3-hour fire rated, with a latchbolt and locking cam monitor reporting the door's actual secured state to the
BUYING GUIDEFolger Adam 310 vs 310-F: Fail Secure or Fail Safe for a Detention Door
Folger Adam's fail secure 310 keeps its UL 10C fire rating. The 310-F releases on power loss but loses that rating. Here's how to choose.
Framon
HPC
BUYING GUIDEHPC 9120RM vs 9160MC: Sizing a Speedex Key Duplicator
HPC 9120RM Mini Speedex vs 9160MC Premier Speedex: sizing a key duplicator for a locksmith shop counter, plus when a code machine is the right call instead.
BUYING GUIDEHPC Key Board and Tags: Loaner vs Permanent
HPC KB-10P steel key board with NLT loaner tags and NPT2T permanent numbered tags: set up a simple key control log that works on a clipboard.
BUYING GUIDEHPC Cutter Wheels CW-14MC, 1011, 1012, 20FM
HPC key machine cutter wheels by key system: CW-14MC large cylinder, CW-1011 small cylinder, CW-1012 Medeco, CW-20FM Sargent and Welch.
Ilco Kik Cylinder
Ilco Mortise Cylinder
Ilco Rim Cylinder
Kaba Ilco E Plex
BUYING GUIDEE-Plex E3065: Keyless Entry on an Aluminum Storefront Door
A storefront door will not take a normal keypad lockset. A locksmith on the E-Plex E3065: lever or thumbturn, which key override cylinder, and deadlatch versus
BUYING GUIDEDiscontinued E-Plex 3000, 3200, 3700: What to Buy
Kaba E-Plex 3000, 3200 and 3700 narrow stile locks were discontinued Dec 31, 2025. Match your Adams Rite lock, codes, software and E7900 successor.
Keedex
BUYING GUIDEKeedex Gate Boxes: Mounting a Lockset on a Steel Gate
A gate has no jamb to mortise into. A locksmith on Keedex weldable gate boxes: pick the box to match the lock, not the gate, plus guard rings and the welding or
BUYING GUIDEKeedex K-BXMOR1 vs K-BXMOR2: Mortise Gate Box
Keedex K-BXMOR1 vs K-BXMOR2 weldable mortise gate boxes: MOR1 for Schlage L, Sargent, Yale; MOR2 for Corbin Russwin, Falcon, Best. 14 gauge.
KSP
Linear
Lockey
Master Lock Padlocks
BUYING GUIDEMaster Lock 6230: Picking a Padlock for an Outdoor Gate
Somebody keeps cutting the padlock. A locksmith on the Master Lock 6230 for an outdoor gate: shackle exposure beats shackle hardness, and keying padlocks as a s
BUYING GUIDEMaster Lock 5400D vs 5401D: A Hanging or Wall-Mounted Key Box
The 5400D hangs off its own shackle for a listing or job site. The 5401D bolts to a wall and stays there. Same key box, two different jobs.
BUYING GUIDEMaster Lock 175 vs 175LH: Standard or Long-Shackle Padlock
Master Lock 175 vs 175LH: same resettable combination padlock, 1 inch or 2-1/4 inch shackle. Pick the one that actually clears your gate. In stock.
BUYING GUIDEMaster Lock Gun Locks: 90DSPT, 94DSPT, or the CA-Legal 107DSPT
A locksmith on picking a Master Lock gun lock: keyed vs combination trigger lock, the cable-lock 107DSPT built for California compliance, and what neither repla
Medeco
Norton Door Closer
BUYING GUIDENorton 1600: The Adjustable Closer for a Light Commercial Door
A locksmith on the Norton 1600 adjustable closer for a light commercial door: non-handed tri-style mounting, hold-open vs standard, and when to step up to a 750
BUYING GUIDENorton 5700 Series: Push Side or Pull Side Operator for an ADA Door
Norton's 5700 Series low-energy operator ships handed for push side (5730), pull side (5710), or universal with both arms (5740). Which one an ADA retrofit actu
BUYING GUIDENorton 210: Tri-Packed or Heavy-Duty Arm, Hold-Open or Not
Norton 210 closers share one Grade 1 body. TP is tri-packed, HD is heavy-duty arm with removable stop, H holds open, N does not. Spring size 1-6.
BUYING GUIDENorton 2800ST: Cam-Action Closer for a Slide Track Arm
Norton 2800ST is a cam-action closer for slide track arms, with lower opening effort than rack and pinion. Max 250 lbs, 54 in. interior width.
Pro-Lok
Protex Safes
Rutherford Controls (RCI)
BUYING GUIDERCI 8371 MiniMag: A Maglock for an Opening Too Small
A locksmith on the RCI 8371 MiniMag and the small-format mag family: picking by opening instead of holding force, mounting-surface flex, glass brackets, and fai
BUYING GUIDERCI 8320: One Maglock for a Pair of Outswinging Doors
RCI 8320 double outswinging maglock: one housing for a pair of doors instead of two single mags. Finishes, DSS sensor option, and sizing tips.
BUYING GUIDERCI 7104 vs 7105 vs 7107 vs 7108 Electric Strike
RCI 7 Series adjustable electric strikes: 7104, 7105, 7107, 7108. Faceplate sizes, backset, voltage suffixes and how to match your frame cutout.
Rytan
Soss Hinges
BUYING GUIDESoss 218 vs 220: Sizing an Invisible Hinge for a Flush Door
A door that disappears into the wall. A locksmith on sizing a Soss invisible hinge, 218 versus 220, the spring-closer version, and why you buy the router templa
BUYING GUIDESoss 218PT: Power Transfer Through an Invisible Hinge
Soss 218PT invisible hinge carries 2.5 amps through the hinge barrel itself, so an electrified lock stays wired with no visible power transfer at the door.
BUYING GUIDESoss 208, 212 or 216 Invisible Hinge: Match Door Thickness
Soss 208, 212 and 216 invisible hinges fit 1 in., 1-1/8 in. and 1-3/8 in. minimum thickness. Light duty, 180 degree, not fire rated. 216IC adds a spring closer.
Stanley
BUYING GUIDEStanley CEFBB179: Wire a Reader Without the Loop
Stanley CEFBB179 electrified hinge routes 4 wires through the barrel so you can power a strike, maglock, or reader without a surface loop.
BUYING GUIDEStanley QED100: X, LR, or ED Electrified Exit Device
A locksmith on Stanley's QED100 electrified rim exit device options: request-to-exit (X), electric latch retraction (LR), and electrified dogging (ED), and whic
BUYING GUIDEStanley QCL230 vs QCL235 vs QCL240: Which Function
Stanley QCL200 cylindrical locks: QCL230 passage, QCL235 communicating, QCL240 privacy. What each does, the shared door prep, and how to pick.
BUYING GUIDEStanley QCL250, QCL251, QCL254: Entry, SFIC or Corridor
Stanley QCL200 less-cylinder locks: QCL250 entry, QCL251 prepped for SFIC, QCL254 corridor. Cylinder not included. Which one fits your door.
Supra
BUYING GUIDESupra 001801 vs 001803: Sizing Your Key Cabinet
Supra 001801 (30-key) vs 001803 (120-key): a plain guide to sizing a locked key cabinet for an apartment complex or school maintenance shop.
BUYING GUIDESupra 00624 vs 001773: Over-the-Door or Wall-Mount Lockbox
A locksmith on the Supra 00624 over-the-door mortise lockbox versus the 001773 slimline wall-mount keysafe, and which one works when there's nothing to hang a l
BUYING GUIDESupra 001193 vs 000534: Pushbutton or Keyed Wall Key Box
Supra 001193 S6 is a pushbutton wall key box holding five keys. The 000534 M5 takes a mortise cylinder for a keyed-alike system. Which fits your wall.
BUYING GUIDESupra Portable Key Box: Cable, Shackle, Door or Auto
Supra portable key boxes compared: 001948 cable, 001192 shackle, 000604 and 001017 over-the-door, 001312 auto mount. Pick by where it hangs.
V Line Safes
BUYING GUIDEV-Line 2597 vs 2912: A Handgun Safe for a Nightstand
V-Line Desk Mate 2597 vs Top Drawer 2912 vs Hide-Away 3912: sizing a handgun safe by where it mounts and how many guns it holds.
BUYING GUIDEV-Line 279-S vs 3842-SA: Handgun or Long Gun Safe
V-Line 279-S is a 5-lb compact pistol safe for a nightstand or vehicle. The 3842-SA is a 42-inch mounted case for a shotgun or long gun.
Weatherstripping Thresholds
BUYING GUIDEPemko 1715AK vs 345ANB: Threshold or Sweep First
Pemko 1715AK heavy duty threshold or 345ANB door bottom sweep: which one actually stops the draft under a commercial exterior door, and when you need both.
BUYING GUIDEPemko 2891AS: Head Gasketing That Works With a Closer Arm
Pemko 2891AS head gasketing carries a parallel arm closer where foam tape fails. 36 in. for a single door, 84 in. for a pair. UL listed, NFPA 80.
Other Guides
TROUBLESHOOTINGGMS Mortise Cylinder: A Same-Day Fix for a Dead Storefront Lock
GMS OEM-spec mortise cylinder with an Adams Rite cam and Kwikset keyway: a same-day drop-in fix for a failed storefront mortise lock, no re-key needed.
BUYING GUIDEFramon SD2: Cutting European Sidewinder Keys In-House
Framon SD2 Sidewinder 2: the code machine for cutting Mercedes, BMW, VW and Audi sidewinder keys in-house instead of referring the job out.
BUYING GUIDEGlynn-Johnson 411H vs 411S: Hold-Open or Just a Stop
Glynn-Johnson's 410 Series concealed overhead arm comes in three functions: hold-open, friction hold, or stop-only. Here's how a locksmith picks.
BUYING GUIDEYale 7110F vs 7120F: Surface or Concealed Rod on a Pair
Ordering a rated pair? Yale's 7110F, 7120F, 7110, and 7120 vertical rod devices split on surface vs concealed rod, and on fire rating. Here's how to pick.
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