5 Best Mortise Locksets (Reviewed 2022)
Premium Choice
Best Value
Best for Sliding Doors
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
11.01.2022
Written By: John Fox | Security expert / Locksmith 30 Years Experience
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We tested more than a dozen of the best-reviewed mortise locksets in the market, and the consensus is that the Wright Products VMT115PB SERENADE Style MORTISE SET is best overall for most applications. In this article, we summarize our findings of the best 5 of these mortise locks.
Best Overall
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Wright VMT115PB Brass Serenade Style Mortise Set
Wright Products is a well-established company that has been producing brass products since 1973. The fact that they have been a leading producer of brass products for more than half a century gives one some context of the quality of this lock. The VMT115PB is one of their most well-produced locks. With this background in mind, let’s discuss our experience with the Wright Products VMT115PB SERENADE Style MORTISE SET.
Being produced by Wright Products, the VMT115PB mortise lockset is made of brass which immediately establishes it as being exceptionally strong and durable. It is plated with satin nickel, giving a golden finish that gives it a luxurious look.
The VMT115PB lock has a lever handle, but it is customizable if you wish to replace it to better match your room. However, the golden finish makes it extremely versatile and suitable for any room setting. It is also a universal lock and can fit perfectly into any door that is 1 inch to 1.4 inches thick.
VMT115PB mortise lockset can be installed in both left-handed and right-handed doors. It is also really easy to install and replace if you wish.
The Wright Products VMT115PB SERENADE Style MORTISE SET is easily one of the best mortise locks you can find. Unless you have an Anderson or Emco storm door, we would suggest you choose this lockset.
Features:
- Type: Lever
- Material: Brass
- Door Width: 1 to 1.4 inches
- Color: Brass
What We Liked:
- Strong and adequate for security
- Easy to install and uninstall
- Fits both left and right hinges
- Luxurious look
- Designed using escutcheon plates
What We Didn’t Like:
- Not available in multiple sizes
Verdict:
Made strong with durable material and gives a classy look.
Premium Choice
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. Samsung SHS-P717-LMK Digital Mostise Door Lock
The Samsung SHS-P717-LMK Digital Mortise Door Lock is distinct from the other mortise locks on this list. But it’s so good that we couldn’t leave it out.
Samsung’s SHS-P717-LMK Digital Mortise Door Lock is a smart lock, but how secure are smart locks in general? There are numerous digital locks available. We tested them all and determined the Samsung SHS-P717-LMK Digital Mortise Door Lock to be the most secure and feature-rich.
The Samsung SHS-P717-LMK Digital Mortise Door Lock will enhance the overall look of your home, whether you have a modern house or a classic-style villa. The Samsung SHS-P717-LMK Digital Mortise Door Lock can be programmed with a 4-to-12-digit combination. Compared to standard mortise locks, this lock is considerably easier and faster to use. It also has a capacity of 20 and an ISO 14443A type 13.56MHz; thus, it works with any Samsung key tags or cards.
Of course, we cannot ignore the 38-80 mm thick mortise AML220 lock. Keep in mind that this smart lock is powered by eight AA Alkaline Batteries, which makes its power last longer.
Overall, Samsung SHS-P717-LMK Digital Mortise Door Lock is the best smart lock every homeowner must-have.
Features:
- Dimensions: 18 x 6 x 14 inches
- Material: Metal
- Color: Transparent
- Locking Type: Combination Lock
What We Liked:
- It is Strong and sturdy
- It has amazing features
- It gradually improves your security
What We Didn’t Like:
- It isn’t easy to set up
- It is not an English mortise lock
Verdict:
Samsung SHS-P717-LMK Digital Mortise Door Lock is the most outstanding smart mortise lock on the market, with unrivaled security and features.
Best Value
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. Classic Bronze 2495 Mortise Keyed Knob
In our opinion, the Prime-Line E 2495 Mortise Knob offers the best bang for your buck. The knob and the backset have the same color, which makes this mortise lock different from similar mortise locks. Another key feature (pun intended) of the Prime-Line E 2495 Mortise Knob is that it locks and unlocks with a key.
The Prime-Line E 2495 Mortise Knob can fit 1-3/8 to 1-3/4 inch doors. Being a knob lock, the E 2495 Mortise Knob can be placed on right-handed as well as left-handed doors. The Prime-Line E 2495 Mortise Knob is particularly versatile in terms of application. Materials used in the construction of this mortise lock are strong and durable, and the lockset is coated with a tasteful finish. It’s strong enough that it can be placed on your main door and elegant enough that it can be placed on your bedroom door. It’s guaranteed to give you protection while also adding to the aesthetic of your home. The design is pretty classy as well. The bronze material with bronze material ensures the durability and longevity of the coating. All of this and this lock still costs considerably less than other mortise locks with a similar profile.
Features:
- Type: Knob
- Material: Bronze
- Door Width: 1-3/8 to 1-3/4 inches
- Color: Classic Bronze
What We Liked:
- It is easy to install
- Value for money
- Best for its sturdiness
What We Didn’t Like:
- Sometimes it’s hard to find the perfect size
Verdict:
Great elegant look, best value for the money.
Best Design
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. Defender Security Mortise Keyed Lock Set
If you like stylish home design, this lock is definitely going to spike your interest. The E 2311 Mortise Keyed Lock Set from Defender Security combined traditional and modern design into a lock that looks absolutely gorgeous. The 2311 Mortise Keyed Lock Set can fit into a door that has a 2-3/8 backset. This makes the 2311 Mortise Keyed Lock Set perfect for replacing antique locksets, as it would fit beautifully with the rest of the theme.
The design features a glass knob with golden brass trim. The combination is extremely aesthetically pleasing and can improve the look of your rooms, whether they’re classic style, modern style, or some creative combination of the two. The lock is also really easy to install and can be installed without any prior knowledge of door locks. The versatility of this lock makes it ideal for both replacing the lock on an old door and using it in a new door.
This lock is primarily meant for indoor use. You can place this lock in your bedroom doors, toilet doors, and other interior doors. But if your main door matches the theme, feel free to place it on your main door as well. The 2311 Mortise Keyed Lock Set is more than adequate to keep your main door safe, being made from brass.
Features:
- Type: Knob
- Material: Brass
- Door Width: 2-3/8 inches
- Color: Polished Brass
What We Liked:
- Exquisite design
- Easy to install
- Strong and durable
- Perfect for replacing antique locks
What We Didn’t Like:
- The glass doorknob may break in an accidental impact
- The screws are difficult to tighten
Verdict:
Fancy design, perfect for exquisite interior doors.
Best for Sliding Doors
Last update on 2022-11-10 / Affiliate links / Ratings / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. Sliding Glass Door Replacement Mortise Lock
FPL is well known in the sliding glass doors and windows market. They create durable and practical locks that are also pretty easy to install. The FPL #3-45-S sliding glass door lock can be used on a sliding door as well as a window. In order to install the lock, you have to drill two 5-3/8 holes for screws. Although it is marketed for glass doors, you can easily use it for aluminum, wooden, or vinyl sliding doors as well. This mortise lock is made of steel, but it is plated with yellow zinc dichromate, which keeps it from rusting or deteriorating.
We tested the FPL #3-45-S in high humidity and concluded that the stainless steel this mortise lock is made of offers sufficient resistance against corrosion. When you buy the FPL #3-45-S mortise lock, it is included with all the accessories you need to mount it.
Features:
- Type: Sliding Door
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Color: YZD Plating
What We Liked:
- Ease of installation
- Stainless steel
What We Didn’t Like:
- Vulnerable to corrosion of the coating which gets scratched off
Verdict:
A really good choice for sliding doors.
Value Editorial and Buying Debates
How do mortise locks work?
Understanding how mortise locks work can allow you to better quantify the protective strength of these locks. Having some understanding may also help you during the installation process. Although it is not possible to completely describe the mechanism in just a few paragraphs, we will summarize the key working principles. (1)
Locks are composed of two parts; the body and the trim. The lock body is the part that goes into the door mortise. The body contains the most important parts of the mortise lock. These parts are the latch, latch bolt, mortise cylinder, spindle, trim, and a deadbolt or sash lock.
The lock trim includes the key cylinder, the latch, and the handle. The lock trim is usually installed on either side. The lock body connects to the trim via the spindle.
These are the basic parts of a mortise lock. However, a lot of locks have additional parts that offer additional features such as security against lock picking.
What is the difference between a cylindrical lock and a mortise lock?
Cylindrical locks and mortise locks may seem similar, but they are completely different in the way they work and the kind of security they provide.
Cylindrical locks are fairly easy to install. You just have to have a standard cylindrical hole in your door, and you can install the lock yourself in 15 to 20 minutes. These locks are also much smaller and cost less than mortise locks.
However, these locks don’t fit inside the body of the door. This means that these locks can be disassembled from the outside without having to unlock the door. These locks can also easily be dislocated with enough force, such as hitting the lock from outside with a fire extinguisher. Once the lock is disassembled, the door is no longer locked, and the person who disassembles the lock can easily come in. (2)
Mortise locks, on the other hand, fit into a mortise inside the body of the door. This means that these locks can’t be disassembled or dislocated when the door is locked. Mortise locks are also larger in size and are more difficult to install as they need a particular sized mortise inside the body of the door. These locks also cost more than cylindrical locks and usually are made from better quality materials.
FAQs for Mortise Locksets
With so many options out there, you probably have a few questions concerning Mortise locksets. I do my best to answer your most pressing concerns:
What is a mortise lock?
A mortise lock is a type of door lock that, unlike cylindrical locks, fits inside the body of the door and is not easy to separate from the door when the door is locked. Mortise locks also are larger and have a bigger body which allows them to be a part of the design of the interior. (3)
What is the difference between a deadbolt and a latch?
The deadbolt is the part of the mortise lock that locks into the frame of the door. The latch is the body of the mortise lock where the handle and the keyhole are placed.
Are mortise locks better than cylindrical locks?
Mortise locks offer more security because their deadbolt is separate from the latch. The deadbolt can only be removed from the side of the door. This means that there is no way to remove the deadbolt when the door is locked. Even if someone was able to break the latch, the door would stay locked. In cylindrical locks, the deadbolt is connected to the latch, and the door can be opened by either unscrewing or dislocating the latch from outside.
However, cylindrical locks are much easier to install and cost less than mortise locks.
Final Thoughts
In our opinion, the Wright Products VMT115PB SERENADE Style MORTISE SET is the most balanced choice and will suit a lot of people. However, not everyone values the same properties equally and the “best mortise lockset” depends on variable factors. In this article, we have selected category winners for you so you don’t have to look at tens of products yourself.
References
(1) mechanism – https://www.britannica.com/technology/mechanism-machinery
(2) fire extinguisher – https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/extinguishers.html
(3) design of the interior – https://www.archdaily.com/935869/what-is-interior-design-and-why-can-it-really-make-you-feel-better
Our Recommendation Again
- Ideal Application: This stylish mortise door latch is ideal for out-swinging metal and wood doors 1-1/8 in. to 2 in. thick with ¾ in. to 1 in. backset. The door handle is non-handed for left or right-handed doors
- Security: Built-in keyed deadbolt lock mechanism for extra security and comes with 2 keys
John Fox
Allow me to introduce myself. My name is John Fox and I’ve been working as a security consultant for over 20 years now. During my time in the industry, I’ve learned about what it takes to ensure your home and family are always safe. With Safe Now, I’ve tried to take those two decades of experience and share it with others. My goal now is to help others figure out how to make the right choices for their businesses and families. On my website, you’ll find tips and guides on how to prevent crimes, as well as product recommendations. What’s more, my readers can learn more about what to do in case of an emergency and how to protect themselves at all times. So, if you want to know everything there is about security systems and home safety, I invite you to join me and my team and help us build a community together.
