What is a mechanical Lock?

Resolution:

A lock is any device which prevents access or use by requiring special knowledge or equipment. Mechanical locks are mechanical devices which secure an opening by keeping a door closed until a release mechanism is activated; usually a lever, knob, key, or thumbturn. 

 

There are several types of mechanical locks, but they all provide the same basic function - to secure a door. Typical uses and benefits of common types are listed below. 

 

Tubular Locks: a bored lockset whose latch or bolt locking mechanism is contained in the component installed into the edge bore

• Light to medium duty
• Light commercial and multi-family applications
• Pros - smaller rose (smaller footprint on face of door), available with decorative levers
• Cons - limited cylinder options (no small format interchangeable core option), weaker chassis than cylindrical lock, not available on thick doors, chassis is not serviceable

Schlage Commercial tubular locks: S-Series

Falcon tubular locks: Y-Series

 

Related solution: What is a tubular lock? 

 

 

Cylindrical Locks: a bored lockset whose latch or bolt locking mechanism is contained in the portion installed through the cross-bore

• Medium, high to extra heavy duty
• Commercial, multi-family and institutional applications
• Pros - Heavy duty, unlimited cylinder options
• Cons - Large rose (larger footprint on face of door), limited lever designs

Schlage Commercial cylindrical locks: A-Series, AL-Series, D-Series, ND-Series

Falcon cylindrical locks: B-Series, T-Series, W-Series, X-Series

 

Related solution: What is a cylindrical lock? 

 

 

Interconnected Locks: a lockset whose trim provides a means of simultaneous retraction of two or more bolts which may also be operated independently

• Medium duty
• Commercial, government or multi-family applications
• Pros - meets codes for simultaneous retraction in multi-family
• Cons - Limited finishes, trim designs and functions

Schlage Commercial interconnected locks: S200-Series, H-Series, CS210-Series

Falcon interconnected locks: H-Series

 

Related solution: What is an interconnected lock? 

 

 

Deadbolt Locks: a lock with a bolt, which requires a deliberate action to extend, and which resists end pressure in the unlocking direction when fully extended

• Medium, high to extra heavy duty
• Commercial, multi-family and institutional applications
• Pros - Versatile options and grades
• Cons - No immediate egress, double cylinder functions can be a safety hazard

Schlage Commercial deadbolts: B250-Series, B500-Series, B600/700/800-Series

Falcon deadbolts: D200-Series, D100-Series

 

Related solution: What is a deadbolt? 

 

 

Mortise Locks: a lockset where the case is designed to fit in a mortise in the edge of a door

• Medium, high to extra heavy duty
• Commercial, multi-family and institutional applications
• Pros - Best of the best, most functions available (40+), multiple trim packages
• Cons - High side of expense

Schlage Commercial mortise locks: L-Series

Falcon mortise locks: MA-Series

 

Related solution: What is a mortise lock? 

 

 

Padlocks: a detachable and portable lock with a shackle which locks into its case

 

Schlage Commercial padlocks: KS-Series

Falcon padlocks: 955, KS-Series

 

Related solution: What is a padlock?