You probably know that mortise locks are perfect for commercial buildings, offices, schools, hospitals, factories, etc. They are heavy duty locks that are stronger than other standard cylindrical locks and are often recommended for top security. You may decide to use them in your home as they are also suitable for entry doors.
But, are all mortise doors on the market reliable? This is where the challenge comes in when you are out there to purchase a mortise lock. Of course, it is unwise to think that all brands are safe, and we have written this article to help you quickly find the best mortise locks.
As you may know, Schlage is one of the top manufacturers of door locks, and our assessment reveals that they have some of the best mortise locks. So, if you’re considering purchasing mortise locks, this article points you to the best Schlage mortise locks as well as other reliable mortise locks brands on the market.
First off, a quick look at our recommended Schlage mortise locks.
List of Top-Rated Schlage Mortise locks
Table of Contents
Preview
Product
Schlage L9010 06A 626 Series L Grade 1 Mortise Lock
Schlage CO100 MS70KP SPA 626 Electronics Security Lock Sparta
Schlage L9040 03A 626 Series L Grade 1 Mortise Lock
Schlage CO100 MS70KP ATH 626 Electronics Security Lock Athens for 09663 10072 KD Mortise
Schlage L9453P 06L 626 C123 Keyway Series L Grade 1 Mortise Lock
Preview | Product | |
 | Schlage L9010 06A 626 Series L Grade 1 Mortise Lock | |
 | Schlage CO100 MS70KP SPA 626 Electronics Security Lock Sparta | |
 | Schlage L9040 03A 626 Series L Grade 1 Mortise Lock | |
 | Schlage CO100 MS70KP ATH 626 Electronics Security Lock Athens for 09663 10072 KD Mortise | |
 | Schlage L9453P 06L 626 C123 Keyway Series L Grade 1 Mortise Lock |
Best Schlage Mortise Locks — Reviews
1. Schlage L9010 06A 626 Series L Grade 1 Mortise Lock
Schlage L9010 06A 626 Series L Grade 1 Mortise Lock is designed with a satin chrome finish, giving it the plain look that most people prefer to have on their doors. It fit with many doors designs.
It is also designed with a heavy-gauge steel case, which protects your door from edge attacks. In case of a break-in attempt, this mortise lock offers strong resistance. It is designed to withstand any form of forced entry. It also has an internal lock case that protects the electronic components, especially during forced entry, when fluids pour on it or when there is a fire outbreak.
More so, this mortise lock is UL-listed for “3-hour fire door”. This means it can withstand a fire outbreak. The lock is keyless, and it comes with a passage function instead. The lock also has a 3/4″ latch bolt that is anti-friction; this allows you to have easy entry and exit. It has inside and outside trims thru-bolted together and through the door.
It is an excellent lock for commercial and industrial doors. Apart from a resisting break-in, this lock also withstand the rigors that come with the daily usage of the door.
2. Schlage CO100 MS70KP SPA 626 Electronics Security Lock Sparta
If you are looking for a mortise lock with electronic access control, the Schlage CO100 MS70KP SPA 626 is an excellent choice.
This mortise lock is one of the best from the Schlage CO series. It has over 500 unique 3-6 digits long PIN codes. It is even more secure and convenient to control as you can create several codes and remove them anytime.
You can create a unique PIN code for each user, which minimizes the need for mechanical keys. Of course, this eliminates the stress of carrying mechanical keys and perhaps misplacing and re-keying them. Though this lock also comes with a keyhole for mechanical keys, you can ditch that for keypad access.
Schlage CO100 MS70KP SPA 626 has several chassis options—mortise, cylindrical, and exit trim. It is also designed with varieties of levers and finishes that work hand in hand with the existing hardware. The standard mechanical key override of this mortise lock works perfectly with multiple cylinder types.
More so, this Schlage mortise lock is compatible with various popular exit device brands. It is also an excellent choice of mortise lock for storerooms, classrooms, offices, etc. It offers excellent security from intruders, and the multiple PIN code feature is great for backup when one user forgets the password assigned to them.
3. Schlage L9040 03A 626 Series L Grade 1 Mortise Lock
This Schlage’s mortise lock is designed to withstand abuse and rigors of constant use. It is an extra heavy-duty lock, so it’s durable, and no matter how often you use it, the lock won’t fail.
It is designed with a 3/4″ anti-friction latch bolt. With this lock, you can enter and exit your commercial property easily.
It features a fully wrapped heavy-gauge steel case that protects your door from edge attacks. It also has an inside lock case that protects the electronic components. Of course, intruders won’t easily have their way through this lock.
If you’re considering aesthetics, this lock features a satin chrome finish steel case like other Schlage L-Series extra heavy duty mortise locks. It is moderately modern and may fit your door designs.
Schlage L9040 03A 626 Series L Grade 1 Mortise Lock is UL-listed for “3-hour doors”, which means it can withstand fire outbreaks.
SEE ALSO: The 8 Best Commercial Keypad Door Locks
4. Schlage CO100 MS70KP ATH 626 Electronics Security Lock Athens for 09663 10072 KD Mortise
This is another top mortise lock by Schlage. It is designed with electronic access control for added security. It’s slightly more expensive than Schlage CO100 MS70KP SPA 626 but worth the price.
Schlage CO100 MS70KP ATH 626 is an offline lock that can be programmed manually. Entry can be via access codes or mechanical keys. This mortise lock allows you to create up to 500 unique PIN codes, making it easier to assign different PIN codes to several users. It also helps in reducing the number of mechanical keys that need to be issued to each user.
This lock is also designed with exit trim, mortise, and cylindrical chassis options. It also has several levers and finishes that complement existing hardware.
This lock is designed for commercial and factory doors and can withstand severe break-in attempts. Basically, it is suitable for storeroom functions, classroom functions, and office functions.
You won’t have a hard time installing this lock if you’re a bit techy. However, this lock functions correctly when installed the right way, so you should only fix it yourself if you’re sure of doing it correctly. Otherwise, you want to call a locksmith for proper installation.
5. Schlage L9453P 06L 626 C123 Keyway Series L Grade 1 Mortise Lock
This is another mortise lock from the L-Series extra heavy-duty mortise lock. It has a grade 1 security rating that meets commercial buildings requirements. One of the unique features of this mortise lock is its grade 1 rating, which makes it an excellent lock for securing commercial doors. This rating also translates to the lock’s sturdiness in terms of frequent use.
This lock is also beautifully designed, so you can expect to have something that matches your office design and other business places.
More so, the lock comes with two anti-friction nickel cut silver keys and a latch. With just a turn, the deadbolt retracts by 90-degree rotation. When locked, you can use the key or knob to retract both the latch bolt and the deadbolt at the same time. It also features a lever for quick egress.
Like other L-Series extra heavy-duty mortise locks, this lock is UL-listed for a “3-hour fire door”. It can protect your properties in the event of a fire outbreak until help arrives.
Overall, this lock is designed with the user in mind—it is easy to operate and suitable for commercial and industrial doors.
SEE ALSO: Top 10 Reliable Schlage Door Handles
Frequently Asked Questions About Mortise locks
How Does a Mortise Lock Work?
Unlike other locks, mortise locks require a door frame to have a mortise or a pocket for it to function correctly. It comes with a bolt that fits into the mortise. When correctly installed, mortise locks tend to be far off secure than other locks as it uses the strength of the door frame.
Are Mortise Locks More Secure?
Mortise locks are considered the most secure for entry door locks. The locks have a unique cut in the door that lets longer and thicker mortise to slide right into the pocket—in the door. This provides advanced protection.
What is the Difference Between a Mortise Lock and Cylindrical Lock?
There are huge differences between these two locks. However, the most glaring difference points to the usage, sturdiness, and installations. Mortise lock is considered to be the most secure locks, and it’s recommended for use in factories and other commercial buildings. This is not the same for cylindrical locks, but that doesn’t mean the locks are weak. Another significant difference between these two locks is in terms of installations. Cylindrical locks are quite easy to install while mortise usually requires an expert to carry out the installation as they seem more technical.
Can You Change a Mortise Lock to a Regular Lock?
Yes, you can remove a mortise lock and replace it with a regular lock. You need to remove the screws holding the doorknob first. After that, separate the doorknob by turning one of its sides in a counterclockwise motion. Depending on the lock you’re replacing, it might have another installation process. Otherwise, after separating the doorknob, you can slide the block in place—using a 1-inch finish nail to lock the top of the block. You can proceed to install your new lock.
The bottom line is mortise locks can be replaced. You can get a technician to replace them if the re-installation seems complicated.
Are Mortise Locks a Standard Size?
Mortise locks are available in various sizes, functions, and security levels. You need to know the size that fits your door when you’re out to make a purchase.
SEE ALSO: 8 Best Kaba Door Locks for Commercial and Industrial Use
Wrap Up
No one loves to buy a product and immediately head for another as the previous one wasn’t worth it. Besides, door locks are associated with your safety. Apart from a break-in, some door locks can prevent severe damages if a fire outbreak occurs.
So, it’s essential to buy trustworthy brands—like Schlage. As you already know, mortise locks are the best when it comes to commercial building locks and entry doors. We already reviewed the top Schlage mortise locks that can give you value for your money. Should you take our word for it? Firsthand experience can prove further.