Question 1

What specific attacks does a high-security lock defeat that a standard Grade 1 lock does not?

Accepted Answer

A standard ANSI Grade 1 lock (like Schlage B60N) is well-built and resists casual attacks. High-security locks add protection against: (1) Lock picking — security pin configurations (spools, serrated pins) in Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, and Abloy defeat standard pick sets and pick guns. (2) Bump key attacks — security pins also defeat bump keys, which work by exploiting the predictable spring behavior of standard pin stacks. (3) Key duplication — restricted keyways with patent protection mean keys cannot be duplicated at hardware stores without your authorization card. (4) Drill attacks — hardened steel anti-drill pins and plates stop power tool attacks at the cylinder.

Question 2

Is Medeco worth the price over Schlage for a Brooklyn apartment?

Accepted Answer

Medeco is significantly more expensive ($180–$350 for hardware alone vs. $50–$80 for Schlage B60N). For most Brooklyn apartments, Schlage B60N Grade 1 paired with door frame reinforcement is the more cost-effective security upgrade. Medeco makes sense when: you live in a high-crime area with documented break-in attempts via lock picking, you want the restricted key system to control who can duplicate your keys, or your building has had specific security incidents. Medeco is exceptional hardware — but the frame failure problem (where burglars kick the door rather than picking the lock) is not solved by upgrading the lock alone.

Question 3

How does Mul-T-Lock differ from Medeco?

Accepted Answer

Both are high-security locks but with different engineering approaches. Medeco uses an angled key cut and rotating pins to defeat picking — the keyway is also restricted. Mul-T-Lock uses a telescoping pin-within-a-pin mechanism that is particularly pick-resistant and also uses a restricted keyway. Both offer excellent security. Mul-T-Lock tends to be slightly more affordable and is popular in commercial settings and with building managers. Medeco is more widely known in residential high-security applications in the US.

Question 4

What is Abloy Protec2 and when should I choose it over Medeco or Mul-T-Lock?

Accepted Answer

Abloy Protec2 uses a disc detainer mechanism rather than pin tumbler — the lock cylinder contains rotating discs that align only when the correct key is inserted. There are zero pins to pick or springs to manipulate. This makes it virtually immune to any picking attack that works on pin tumbler locks. It is also drill-resistant and has an exceptional restricted key system. Abloy is the right choice for the highest-security applications — when you want the lock that cannot be picked by any known technique. It is more expensive than Medeco and Mul-T-Lock.

Question 5

Do high-security locks require special door preparation?

Accepted Answer

Most high-security deadbolts are designed to standard ANSI dimensions and replace existing deadbolts without additional drilling, assuming your door already has a standard 2-1/8" bore. We measure and confirm fit before installation. Pre-war Brooklyn doors sometimes have non-standard preparations from decades of previous lock changes — we assess these on arrival. Reinforcing the strike plate and door frame is always recommended regardless of which lock you choose.

High-Security Locks in Brooklyn, NY — Medeco, Mul-T-Lock & Abloy

What Standard Locks Resist — and What They Do Not

High-Security Lock Brands We Install

High-Security Lock FAQ — Technical Questions Answered

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