Walk into any hardware store and you'll find dozens of deadbolts at wildly different price points. How do you know which one actually protects your home? Here's what we look for as professional locksmiths.
ANSI/BHMA Grade Ratings
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) rates residential locks on a scale of Grade 1 (commercial/high security), Grade 2 (heavy residential), and Grade 3 (basic residential). Most builder-grade locks are Grade 3. We recommend Grade 1 or Grade 2 for all exterior doors.
Key Control
Standard locks use keys that can be duplicated at any hardware store. High-security locks use patented keyways that can only be duplicated by an authorized locksmith. If key control matters to you — for a rental property, for example — look for locks with restricted keyways.
Pick and Bump Resistance
Basic pin tumbler locks can be picked or "bumped" open with the right tools. Security pins (spool pins, serrated pins) make this significantly harder. Look for locks that advertise pick and bump resistance, or ask your locksmith about security pin upgrades to your existing locks.
Our Top Recommendations
- Schlage B60N — Best value Grade 2 deadbolt. Solid, reliable, widely available.
- Schlage B62N — Same as above but with a keyed exterior and interior thumb turn.
- Medeco Maxum — High-security option with restricted keyway and hardened steel components.
- Kwikset 980 — Good mid-range option with SmartKey re-keying technology.
Don't Forget the Strike Plate
The deadbolt is only as strong as what it's bolted into. Most homes have a basic strike plate held in by 3/4-inch screws into the door jamb. A quality security strike plate with 3-inch screws that reach the wall stud is one of the most cost-effective security upgrades you can make.
We install and supply quality deadbolts throughout Branson and Southwest Missouri. Call 417-257-4956 for a free recommendation on the right hardware for your home.