Tips on Choosing a High-Security Lock

Anything worth buying a lock for deserves as reliable, durable and secure a lock as you can get, so many turns to high-security locks to protect their homes, businesses or belongings. However, it’s not always apparent which high-security locks actually deliver on the claim and which are just called that for marketing purposes. When you shop for high security locks Minneapolis MN, keep these tips in mind during your search.

Certification and Security Grades

Locks are certified by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) to assess how secure they are, based on durability, mechanical complexity and long-term resistance to wear. The standards vary from one product type to another, but all fall under Grade 1, 2, or 3, with 1 being the highest performance. This doesn’t mean you need to get only Grade 1 locks; these are the most expensive and often are reserved for commercial use. In less demanding scenarios, Grade 2 or 3 locks often suffice.

High-Security Features

Higher-graded locks frequently rely on certain design features that make them difficult to pick or break quickly and without attention:

• A complex, restrictive lock cylinder thwarts quick access by manual manipulation, including tricks like key bumping or imprisoning.
• Durable materials and designs—including steel plates, rods and ball bearings—offer protection from drilling.
• Keys can be made difficult to duplicate with patented keyways, and key designs with many possible differs dissuade master keying.

Beware of Bypasses

All the high-security features in the world mean nothing if they can be bypassed. Known security flaws can be exploited, rendering a lock vulnerable in the face of someone who knows what they’re doing. Certain lock brands or designs can be compromised as a result; do research on the options you’re considering and make sure that there aren’t any well-known exploits and pay attention to what security experts recommend.

Ultimately, no lock is totally impenetrable—what matters is making it impossible to get in swiftly without being caught. While an imposing-looking lock can discourage attackers from trying at all, you want a lock with more than the illusion of security. Take the time to read up on high-security locks and know what you’re looking for.