A mortise lock features a heavy-duty, single rectangular lock body that fits into a deep pocket cut directly into the door. In contrast, a tubular lock uses two separate cylindrical pieces (the latch and the deadbolt) that fit into standard pre-drilled holes in the door face and edge.
Cons. Less secure: While adequate for basic security needs, tubular locks are generally less secure than mortise locks. They can be more easily tampered with or bypassed. Lower durability: Tubular locks may not hold up as well in high-traffic or high-security areas.
Top Lock Brands Recommended by Locksmiths
Although there are many types of locks, the four most common are padlocks, deadbolts, knob locks, and levers.
Mortise locks are different in that they have a rectangular escutcheon trim on both sides of the door. They can also have sectional trim, which is basically the escutcheon broken into two separate square or round pieces for the lever/knob and the cylinder.
Mortise locks have a single long and rectangular lock body whereas the Tubular locks have two separate cylindrical pieces that fit inside of bored holes.
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.
Mortise locks are generally considered the most secure type of lockset for standard doors. Unlike standard tubular locks, they are installed into a deep pocket (mortise) carved directly into the door, making them significantly more resistant to brute force, prying, and tampering.
Locks have been in use for over 6000 years, with one early example discovered in the ruins of Nineveh, the capital of ancient Assyria. Locks such as this were developed into the Egyptian wooden pin lock, which consisted of a bolt, door fixture or attachment, and key.
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.
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.
Schlage is generally considered the better, more secure brand for heavy-duty construction and pick resistance. Kwikset is the better choice if you prioritize budget and convenience, specifically for their easy DIY rekeying features.
You should generally avoid using the original WD-40 formula on locks. While it provides a quick fix by dissolving grime, it is primarily a solvent and will eventually dry out, leave a sticky residue, and attract dust and dirt that can permanently gum up the locking mechanism.
If you are dealing with a lock that is difficult to cut (or if you are trying to find a highly secure lock to buy), there are a few important things to consider regarding the materials and tools involved.
Commonly found in vending machines, ATMs, amusement machines, and bike locks, tubular locks are designed to provide a higher level of security compared to standard pin tumbler locks. Locksmiths and technicians know that with the right tubular lock pick tool, these locks can be opened quickly and efficiently.
Corbin/Russwin: The Most Decent-Quality Lock Brand
If you're in the market for a lock brand that is rated as reliable and sturdy enough for commercial applications, then you can never go wrong with Corbin/Russwin Locks. As the name implies, these locks are manufactured by two companies — Corbin and Russwin.
Lock bumping is a covert entry technique used to open standard pin-tumbler locks—the most common type of door lock. It requires no specialized picking skills and works by inserting a specially cut "bump key" and striking it, causing the lock’s pins to bounce momentarily and allow the cylinder to turn.
Before door knobs were invented, people secured and opened doors using rudimentary latches, bolts, and straps. Without an integrated handle, doors were typically pulled open using a simple ring, a leather strap, or even a knotted rope.
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.
Spring Latch Locks
Also known as key-in-knob locks, spring latch locks are some of the most common—and weakest—locks found on residential doors.
Deadbolts are one of the most popular and effective types of burglarproof locks. They provide an additional layer of security beyond a standard lockset by extending a solid metal bolt into the door frame.
Police typically recommend using high-quality deadbolt locks, specifically ANSI Grade 1 or Grade 2 deadbolts, for exterior doors.
When choosing the best mortise lock, the "gold standard" depends on whether you need uncompromising commercial-grade physical security or modern smart convenience. The top selections stand out for their specific strengths:
A 5 lever mortice deadlock is commonly fitted to wooden doors and is locked from both the inside and outside with a key, they are fitted within the material of the door, rather than on the surface. Any five-lever mortice deadlock that is NOT BS3621 approved will usually have a Nightlatch fitted as additional security.