A mortise lock set is a heavy-duty door locking system housed within a rectangular metal box (the "lock body") that fits inside a deep pocket cut directly into the edge of the door. This is distinct from standard cylindrical locks, which simply require holes drilled through the face of the door.
A mortice lock is widely regarded as the gold standard in door security, particularly for front doors and high–security applications. Unlike surface–mounted locks or standard tubular latches, a mortice lock is embedded within the door itself, making it far more resistant to forced entry, picking, and break–ins.
Lock Size: Mortise locks are usually larger, heavier, and more rectangular in shape. Cylindrical and tubular locks are often smaller and lighter. Mortise Faceplate: A visible thin rectangular piece on the edge of the door that is likely secured by two small screws.
Mortise locks are highly secure, heavy-duty locking systems housed within a rectangular pocket cut into the edge of a door. Because their modular bodies can house multiple components, mortise lock functions—such as passage, privacy, or office entry—determine exactly how the latchbolt and deadbolt operate via levers, keys, and thumbturns.
Kitemark Engraved – The Mortice Lock will have the British Standard Kitemark engraved on faceplate. Number of Levers Engraved – Faceplate should state the number of levers the lock has. Standard Number Engraved – The Faceplate of the lock will state the standard number e.g BS3621:2017.
Although there are many types of locks, the four most common are padlocks, deadbolts, knob locks, and levers.
A mortise lock is a type of door lock which typically combines a latch and deadbolt in one unit. It requires a pocket, or mortise, to be cut into the edge of the door for installation.
For most homeowners, deadbolt locks, mortise locks, and modern digital or smart locks are considered the top choices. Deadbolts are highly secure for wooden and metal doors, mortise locks offer strength and dual locking, while smart locks provide keyless convenience with remote access.
Top Lock Brands Recommended by Locksmiths
A mortise lock (also spelled mortice lock in British English) is a lock that requires a pocket—the mortise—to be cut into the edge of the door or piece of furniture into which the lock is to be fitted. Mortise lock describes only a method of fitting the lock, and says nothing about the quality or key mechanism.
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.
Police typically recommend using high-quality deadbolt locks, specifically ANSI Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolts, for exterior doors.
The best front door locks balance heavy-duty physical security with modern convenience. Top locksmith-recommended brands include Schlage, Yale, and Lockly. The Schlage Encode Plus is the best overall smart deadbolt, while the Yale Approach is perfect for renters wanting to keep their existing keys.
A mortise lock looks like a heavy-duty, rectangular metal box (the "case") embedded directly inside a pocket cut into the edge of a door, rather than mounted on its surface. It features a long, narrow faceplate on the door edge secured by screws and typically operates using a separate, threaded cylinder and a mortise sash lock.
Schlage is generally considered more secure than Kwikset, offering superior protection against forced entry and picking. Schlage locks often feature ANSI Grade 1 ratings, thicker metal, and drill-resistant components, while Kwikset focuses on convenience and affordability (often Grade 2). For maximum home security, Schlage is the preferred choice, whereas Kwikset is often chosen for residential turnover and easy rekeying.
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.
Even though it may take some time to pick a deadbolt, many burglars are well equipped to handle it with ease. Choose a lock that has a high security cylinder if possible.
Do smart locks void insurance? No, smart locks typically do not void insurance as long as they meet the security requirements outlined by your insurer. Many policies focus on the cylinder's security rather than the smart lock itself, so check with your provider for specific terms.
You may be in the habit of leaving your key in the lock at night once you've secured your home, but this is not recommended. A burglar may be able to use it to gain entry, either via a nearby window or the letterbox. It's best to leave them in a designated safe spot which cannot be seen from the front door or windows.
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 Door Monkey is a versatile child-proof door lock and pinch guard that clamps onto the edge of a standard interior door. It locks the door in a slightly cracked position, preventing children and pets from entering restricted rooms while still allowing fresh air to circulate.
“Deadbolts or deadlocks on front doors are certainly a great first line of defence from intruders,” McBride says. These are strong, heavy-duty locks commonly used on exterior doors for security against breaking-and-entering.