6 Best Mortise Locks Reviews in 2022 – Latest Picks

It doesn’t matter if we live in the safest neighborhood or crime alley; we need to ensure the highest security at any cost! And for that, mortise locksets are the most excellent choice we have!

But the problem is, there’re tons of options available out there. Hence, choosing the best mortise locks is a pretty daunting task! We’re not allowed to make mistakes when it’s about safeguarding our valuables, are we?

Well, don’t worry; we’ve got that part covered for you! In this article, we’ll talk about the finest traditional mortise locks that come in different finishes and materials! You’ll also get to know what factors you should take into account before making the purchase.
So, without wasting much time, let’s get all the spicy details!

Why Mortise Locks Are Important

Mortise locks are pretty durable when it comes to their built quality. If you can get your hands on a grade 1 mortise lock, it can meet as much as 1,000,000 cycles, while the cylindrical locks can go for no more than 8,00,000 cycles.

Besides, the makers of grade 1 mortise locks put these ones in some abusive tests to make sure you can get the higher standard durability.

As for the functionality, they’ve got plenty of room for thumb-turns, deadbolts, indicators and many more. Meaning, you’re getting more locking functions compared to the cylindrical ones. 

Mortise locks usually have over 49 functions while the cylindrical ones have about 29. Besides, these locks offer you the flexibility you need.  They come with great finishes and amazing lever styles. So, yes, if you can get your hands on a high-end mortise lock, that’s a thumbs up for you.

Top 5 Best Mortise Locks Reviews

Here is my list of the top five mortise locks available in the market right now. No matter what you pick from here, your possessions will be in safe hands; that’s guaranteed!

1. PRIME-LINE Products PRIME-LINE E 2495 Mortise Knob

The first product on my list is by Prime-line, and it is one of the best mortise locksets you can get for the highest security of your household. And it is also super inexpensive, which is just the cherry on the top!

This traditional style lock comes with an aesthetically pleasing bronze finish. Therefore, you can install it anywhere, from your bedroom door to the patio, without messing with the décor.

Another great thing about this mortise lock is that you can do left or right-hand installations. So, top marks for the convenience!

You can trigger the security mechanism of this lock bolt from inside and outside. Hence, it will be an excellent indoor door lock, I believe.

Thanks to the ergonomic knob and sleek outlook, it will go perfectly with any modern and conventional interior. And it fits all the standard door sizes; thus, you won’t have any trouble finding the accurate match.

From pocket-friendly price tag to top-notch protection, this locking mechanism has got everything. So, if you want to see your money well-invested, go for this one without any hesitation.

2. Defender Security E 2497 Mortise Keyed Glass Knob

Are you looking for a mortise lockset that will add elegance to your house? Well, this E-2497 doesn’t only add sparkle to the door but also keep your house secure, so you can enjoy a good night’s sleep!

As Defender Security is one of the best mortise lock brand options out there, you can rely on their invention for top-notch security. This mechanism can be activated from both outside and inside. It will fit any regular-sized door around your house.

Now, let’s talk about its knob design. It comes with a gorgeous glass knob and the super graceful bronze trims make it more stunning than it already is! For that reason, you can get it for your walk-in closet or bedroom, whatever you prefer.

You can do both right and left-handed installation on new or vintage doors without any issues. And the process is quite simple, so you can easily mount it all by yourself.

But let me tell you a fact about the glass doorknob. Though it feels solid when you hold it, this thing isn’t unbreakable. After all, it’s made of glass and not enchanted like Cinderella’s slipper!

However, the protection you will get is top-class; it looks fantastic and doesn’t cost you a fortune. And that sounds like a pretty sweet deal, don’t you think?

3. Pacific Doorware Storefront Mortise Lock

This mortise lock by Pacific Doorware is an excellent option for those who want to secure their storefront door. And it has a surprisingly low-price tag, which is remarkable.

The manufacturer has designed this lockset with two cylinders, Schlage keys and Adams Rite cams. And the measurements will match any standard doors, which will make things easier for you.

Every component of this lockset is made with premium-grade material. As a result, you will enjoy a long-lasting service without any hitches.

It is available in both right and left lever placement. Thus, you have the liberty to choose the most convenient one for you. Some users love to have this choice and if you’re one of them, get it right away!

On top of everything, the safety features you get with it are really praiseworthy. It has a 5-lever lock design which is harder to pick! So, when you are trying to get an incredible security system for your valuables, this is the ideal mechanism for you!

This lockset is popular for its smooth performance and is eligible for heavy-duty usage. However, the installation process is tricky, so you may need a professional’s help while mounting it.

4. Maxtech Mortise Lock Entry Lockset

When you are looking for a sleek yet rugged lockset to keep your valuables secure, this mechanism by Maxtech is the one for you. Though it comes with a simple outlook, you will get a heavy-duty service; there is no doubt about that!

This lock is made with top-quality solid brass to add integrity to the door. No burglar can easily pick this one, which is a relief!

It comes in a rectangular shape and has an elegant brass finish. Hence, you can install it in your library, workplace, even in your bedroom without any trouble.

However, you will have to get right and left lever placement separately; the design isn’t reversible. And that may dishearten some users. But when you consider the safety, you’re getting in such a reasonable price range, you won’t feel gloomy anymore!

It comes with a heavyweight construction to offer outstanding reliability and prolonged service. Hence, when you hold this doorknob, you will get a super sturdy feeling. And trust me, that’s worth every penny!

With an aesthetically pleasing outlook and top-tier security, this mortise lockset is made to achieve greatness. So, if you want to ensure the most exemplary security for your place, you can keep this one on your wish list without any hesitation!

5. Marks Hardware 91A-LH Marks Mortise Lock

This mortise lock by Marks Hardware is a popular one among users for all the right reasons! From a posh outlook to hard-wearing security, you will find everything with this product.

The reversible design of this mechanism makes it perfect for any homeowner out there. And it comes with a heavy-duty brass construction, so you don’t have to replace it in the near future!

Another dynamic thing about this locking mechanism is getting it for both metal and wooden doors. Moreover, the installation process is pretty straightforward; hence, anyone can do that in minutes. Well, that’s something noteworthy!

As it has a sleek brass finish, you can get it for any modern décor. Additionally, this lockset will also look great in a professional environment; you can give it a try if you want.

The package includes two keys and all the hardware you need for the mounting procedure. And the most impressive thing is, you are getting ANSI/BHMA Grade-2 security with this one.

Hence, installing this lockset will be the wisest choice if you want to keep your fortune in the safest hands!

6. MAAX ML3080EU Heavy-Duty Electrified Mortise Lock

Some of us are always looking for the best electrified mortise lock. And this MAAX ML3080EU is the ideal one from them! From heavy-duty construction to user-friendly features, you’re getting a whole package here!

With a stainless-steel finish and lever handle, this locking mechanism says that you cannot take it for granted! You should install it in high-security rooms as this lockset is hard to mess with!

This electric cylindrical mortise lock is made with premium-grade stainless steel. Hence, if you want a lifetime service, this is the most remarkable purchase you can make.

It is equipped with a 20VDC lock which any burglar can’t pick. Yes, this lockset has a vandal-proof design, and that sounds really comforting!

You can easily get it for any standard door size you want. And despite having all the high-end features, it doesn’t burn holes in your pocket. Isn’t that amazing?

Considering all its features, why don’t you get this one if you want to keep your house secure with the best 40h electrified mortise lock?

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Buying Guide

If you’re going to buy a mortise lock, then it only makes sense for it to be of the best quality, right? So before making your purchase, consider the following factors.

Compatibility:

There would be no point in getting any sort of door lock if it didn’t match the dimensions of your door, would it? Accordingly, the most important factor is to consider your door’s design, construction material, and, most importantly, its thickness.

If the door in which you plan on fitting your mortise lock is built from glass, aluminum, or uPVC, then you most likely won’t be able to. When it comes to wooden doors, unless it’s built from a very strong wood like maple, installing the mortise can affect its structural integrity.

Finally, the door thickness is important to consider as the mortise cylinder is attached not to the surface, but to the internal casing. If the mortise lockset ends up being too small, the door surface and keyhole surface won’t be parallel.

Levers:

The number of levers inside your mortise lockset determines, to a great degree, its security. This is because the higher the number of levers, the more difficult it is for duplicate keys to unlock it. A five-lever set is the most desirable; moreover, the lock should be doubly resistant to picking with the integration of hardened steel plates.

ANSI Rating:

ANSI means the American National Standards Institute, an organization that specializes in measuring the security levels of various products, services, and systems. ANSI categorizes lock security as 1, 2, or 3.

Grade 1

As this is the highest ANSI security rating given to a mortise lock, it’s also the most secure. Grade 1 locks have been subjected to one million open-and-close cycles and can tolerate ten strikes of 75 pounds maximum.

Grade 2

Grade 2 locks are usually made from high-quality materials, have been tested for 800,000 open-and-close cycles, and can tolerate five strikes of 75 pounds. This is the most common ANSI rating for mortise locks.

Grade 3

As the lowest ANSI security rating given to a door lock, these are usually constructed from flimsier materials, making them weaker. However, they do provide good indoor protection.

Smart Capabilities:

If you’re tech-savvy, then you can already imagine the benefits of investing in a smart mortise lockset. With the benefits of passwords, PINs, and fingerprint/facial recognition, smart locks offer lots of extra layers for security.

Furthermore, smart locks can usually also be controlled remotely with the help of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. This allows you to let people in even when you’re not home, such as handymen or maids. In-built cameras allow you to see who is coming into and going out of the house.

That all sounds great, right? It is, but it’s also important to remember that a smart lock doesn’t necessarily do away with the problems of a poorly-built, weak lockset. Moreover, smart systems are also susceptible to hacking. So even if you go for a smart mortise lock, first remember to ensure the strength of the lock itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a mortise lock, and how is it different?

Mortise locks are characterized by their insertion into a pocket (or mortise) that is cut into the door’s edge. They have heavy-duty capabilities that single-cylinder locks don’t, and are more secure as a result. 

2. What are the benefits of using a mortise lock?

Generally, mortise locks are more difficult for intruders to work with. Furthermore, their dual locking system also enhances security. They’re great for entry doors.

3. Do I have to perform maintenance on my mortise lock to keep it in working order?

Although frequent maintenance isn’t a must, it’s still a good idea. External components of the lock should be wiped with a damp cloth while bolts, latches, and keyholes should be lubricated.

4. What construction material is best for mortise locks?

Stainless steel and brass are the most popular options thanks to their longevity and strength. A protective coating can also prove to be very helpful.

5. Is it better to go for a smart lock for higher security?

Thanks to the integration of passwords/PIN codes, cameras, and remote operation, smart locks offer greater functionality. However, they don’t ensure higher physical fitness of the lock itself.

Conclusion

When it comes to the best mortise locks, it’s important to choose one that is built from sturdy, durable materials, and is compatible with the door on which it will be installed. Although it might be tempting to go for a cheaper lock, remember that when it comes to mortise locks, the quality is usually reflected in the price.

Good luck, and we hope you find the right fit for yourself!