High-Security Locks
Restricted-keyway cylinders and pick-, bump- and drill-resistant hardware where a standard lock is not enough.
Short answer: High-security locks use restricted keyways so keys cannot be copied at a kiosk, plus pick-, bump- and drill-resistant cylinders. They suit front doors, rental turnover, home offices and any business that needs real key control.
What makes a lock high-security
Three things: a patented, restricted keyway so blanks are only available through authorised dealers; a cylinder design with anti-pick and anti-bump pins and hardened anti-drill inserts; and a strong bolt and strike so the door is as good as the cylinder. Brands in this class include Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, Abloy and Schlage Primus, among others.
Key control
With a restricted keyway, every key is cut from a registered blank and a signature card controls who can order more. That is why landlords, small businesses and anyone who has handed keys to contractors choose it: when a key goes missing you know how many exist.
Upgrading what you have
Many high-security cylinders retrofit into existing deadbolts and commercial locks, so you keep the hardware and change only the cylinder. The strike and door reinforcement are checked at the same time so the weak point does not simply move.
What it typically costs
High-security cylinders typically run $150 to $400 each installed, with restricted keys priced per key. A full lock rather than a cylinder swap costs more. Ask for the total for the doors you want covered.
Every job is quoted as a total, on the phone or before work starts on site. Ask for it, and see the full pricing guide for what drives the number.
What to have ready when you call
- Which doors you want upgraded
- Whether you need restricted (non-duplicable) keys
- The current lock brand and type if known
- Your address and a good time
Related services
Deadbolt Installation
New deadbolts fitted to exterior doors, including fresh bore-outs, strike reinforcement and matching keys.
Learn more →Lock Rekey Service
Keep your existing locks and make the old keys useless. The right move after a move-in, a lost key or a change of tenant.
Learn more →Commercial Locksmith Service
Offices, shops and multi-unit buildings: lockouts, rekeys, panic hardware, closers and key control.
Learn more →Frequently asked questions
Are high-security locks worth it for a home?
For a front door, a home office or a property with keys in other people's hands, yes: you get key control and real resistance to picking, bumping and drilling.
Can my keys still be copied?
Only through an authorised dealer with your signature card. Hardware-store and kiosk duplication is not possible on a restricted keyway.
Can I keep my existing deadbolt?
Often yes. Many high-security cylinders fit standard deadbolt and commercial lock bodies, so only the cylinder changes.
How do I arrange a high-security upgrade?
Call (408) 418-0044 and describe the situation, your exact location and what you need. Timing is confirmed on that call rather than promised in advance, and you get the total before any work begins.
Need a locksmith at your location?
Call with your exact location and what you need. You get a straight answer and the total before any work begins.