A Grade 1 deadbolt is the highest security certification for door locks, defined by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA). Designed primarily for high-traffic commercial and industrial buildings, they offer maximum physical resistance to brute force attacks.
ANSI Grade 1 and Grade 2 deadbolts are certified by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) based on strict testing for operational longevity, impact resistance, and pull strength.
A Grade 3 deadbolt is an ANSI/BHMA-certified lock offering the lowest level of security among rated deadbolts, designed primarily for basic residential applications. It meets minimum standards for durability, resisting at least two door strikes and 100,000 cycles. These are generally used for interior or low-risk doors, rather than primary exterior entry points.
Kwikset Signature Series 980 Series Grade 1 Door Deadbolt adds security to residential and commercial applications. Protect your home, storefront, or restaurant with durable material available in multiple finishes.
These grades indicate the durability and security of the lock: Grade 1: Highest level of residential security, suitable for high-security needs. Grade 2: Intermediate level, providing good security for residential use. Grade 3: Lowest level of security, while still offering protection against common break-in methods.
Schlage mechanical locks include best-in-class, Grade 1 solutions designed for strength and durability over time.
The Core Recommendation: BS 3621 Standard Locks
To spot one, look for the iconic British Standard Kitemark on the faceplate along with 'BS 3621. ' Protect your home by choosing a lock that meets these thief-resistant standards—your peace of mind depends on it.
Schlage is widely considered the superior brand for overall security and durability. However, Kwikset excels in consumer convenience and affordability.
Top Lock Brands Recommended by Locksmiths
Grade 1 is the highest ANSI/BHMA certification, rated for 1,000,000 cycles and 360 lb. of force resistance. Grade 2 is rated for 800,000 cycles and 250 lb. Grade 1 is specified for commercial and institutional applications.
The most secure deadbolt on the market is the Abloy Protec 2. For high-traffic residential or heavy-duty needs, the Schlage Primus or commercial-grade Schlage B660 are top choices. These are Grade 1 ANSI/BHMA certified, offering heavy-duty steel construction, pick resistance, and restricted keys that prevent unauthorized duplication.
ANSI/BHMA lock grades dictate the security and durability of door hardware. Grade 3 locks provide basic, light-duty security for interior residential doors. Grade 2 locks offer moderate-to-heavy duty performance, making them the industry standard for residential entry doors and light commercial spaces.
Matte Black: The Modern Classic
Matte black door handles create definition against light or neutral doors, while their soft finish hides fingerprints and everyday wear. Chic, versatile and practical - this finish continues to dominate the market and shows no signs of fading in popularity.
While both #1 and #2 grades are commonly used in construction and exterior projects, the key differences come down to appearance, allowable characteristics, and cost. #1 lumber is a higher grade with fewer knots, smaller imperfections, and a more uniform appearance.
The best door locks combine heavy-duty physical security with reliable, everyday convenience. Top industry experts and lab tests generally recommend Schlage and Yale for high-security mechanical and smart locks.
A single-cylinder deadbolt features a keyhole on the exterior and a thumb-turn on the interior. A double-cylinder deadbolt requires a key to lock and unlock the door from both the inside and the outside.
Certain lock varieties force locksmiths to risk damage during opening procedures, including digital vault systems, mechanical combination safes, and fingerprint-activated locks. These security devices demand specialized equipment or advanced opening techniques that standard locksmith tools cannot handle.
When comparing Yale and Kwikset, Yale is generally considered better for premium features, smart home integration, and sleek design, while Kwikset is better for affordability and DIY-friendly rekeying.
Yale and Schlage are the two biggest heavyweights in residential door locks. Both offer exceptional hardware, but they cater to slightly different priorities: Schlage is the go-to for heavy-duty mechanical security and Apple ecosystem integration, while Yale excels in sleek, keyless aesthetics and flexible smart home customization.
The "best" door lock brand depends on your needs, but Schlage and Yale are consistently top-rated by industry experts and locksmiths. Schlage is heavily favored for maximum mechanical security and heavy-duty deadbolts, while Yale and August excel at high-tech smart locks.
Schlage mechanical deadbolts and F-series handlesets are graded AAA in residential Security, Durability and Finish. When you want to make your home your sanctuary, someplace you feel both secure and comfortable in all ways possible, you know you can turn to Schlage.
Burglars hate anything that makes a break-in noisy, time-consuming, or highly visible. Criminals look for the path of least resistance; if a target requires too much effort or poses a high risk of getting caught, they will simply move on to an easier home.
The most secure deadbolt on the market is the Abloy Protec 2. For high-traffic residential or heavy-duty needs, the Schlage Primus or commercial-grade Schlage B660 are top choices. These are Grade 1 ANSI/BHMA certified, offering heavy-duty steel construction, pick resistance, and restricted keys that prevent unauthorized duplication.
The easiest way to protect yourself is to use a lock that does not use a pin tumbler. Most mortice locks use levers and do not use pins on springs so are bump proof by design. We recommend British Standard Mortice Deadlocks.