Understanding Lock Grades: Your Guide to ANSI/BHMA Security Ratings
Not all locks are created equal. Learn how to read security ratings and why the difference between Grade 1, 2, and 3 locks could determine whether your property is protected or vulnerable.
Walk into any hardware store and you'll see dozens of locks at vastly different prices. A basic deadbolt might cost $20, while a high-security lock can run $300 or more. What's the difference? The answer lies in ANSI/BHMA security ratings—an industry standard that most consumers don't understand, but absolutely should.
What Are ANSI/BHMA Lock Grades?
ANSI (American National Standards Institute) and BHMA (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) developed a standardized testing and grading system to measure lock security, durability, and functionality.
Locks are tested rigorously and assigned one of three grades:
Why This Matters:
Most consumers choose locks based on appearance or price without understanding that:
Bottom line: You can't tell lock quality by looking at it. You must check the ANSI/BHMA grade.
The Testing Process: How Locks Are Graded
Every graded lock undergoes rigorous testing across multiple categories:
1. Strength Testing (Force Resistance)
What they test: How much force the lock can withstand before failing
Test method:
Failure points: Lock must maintain security under specified force levels
2. Cycle Testing (Durability)
What they test: How many times the lock can be opened/closed before failing
Test method:
Requirements vary dramatically by grade (see detailed breakdown below)
3. Door Impact Testing
What they test: Lock's ability to withstand door slamming
Test method:
4. Finish Testing
What they test: Corrosion resistance and finish durability
Test method:
5. Security Testing
What they test: Resistance to picking, bumping, and other attack methods
Note: Specific testing methods are not publicly disclosed to prevent providing information to burglars
Grade 1: Commercial/High-Security
Performance Requirements:
Cycle testing: 800,000+ cycles
Force resistance:
Door impact: 10 full-force door slams with no failure or loosening
Where Grade 1 is Required:
Typical Price Range:
$100-$400+ per lock (depending on features and brand)
Common Grade 1 Brands:
When to Choose Grade 1 for Residential:
Grade 2: Residential Standard
Performance Requirements:
Cycle testing: 400,000+ cycles
Force resistance:
Door impact: 5 full-force door slams with no failure or loosening
Where Grade 2 is Ideal:
Typical Price Range:
$50-$150 per lock
Common Grade 2 Brands:
Grade 2 Advantages:
When Grade 2 is Sufficient:
Grade 3: Basic/Minimum Security
Performance Requirements:
Cycle testing: 200,000+ cycles
Force resistance:
Door impact: Limited testing requirements
Where Grade 3 Might Be Acceptable:
Where Grade 3 is NOT Acceptable:
Typical Price Range:
$20-$60 per lock
Common Grade 3 Examples:
Grade 3 Problems:
Visual Comparison: What You're Really Getting
Internal Components:
Grade 1:
Grade 2:
Grade 3:
External Construction:
Grade 1:
Grade 2:
Grade 3:
How to Identify Lock Grade
On the Lock Itself:
Look for markings on:
Look for: "ANSI/BHMA Certified Grade 1," "Grade 2," or "Grade 3"
On Packaging:
Warning Signs of Low Quality:
Price vs. Security: What Should You Spend?
Budget Reality Check:
The $20 Lock: Grade 3, minimal security
The $75-100 Lock: Grade 2, residential standard
The $200-400 Lock: Grade 1, maximum security
ROI Perspective:
Average burglary loss: $2,800 (FBI statistics)
Emotional toll: Priceless
Investment in proper locks:
One prevented burglary pays for all your locks—with $2,350 to spare.
Common Myths About Lock Security
Myth 1: "All deadbolts are the same"
Reality: Grade 3 and Grade 1 deadbolts look similar but perform vastly differently under attack.
Myth 2: "Burglars will just break a window"
Reality: Most burglars prefer quiet, quick entry through doors. Strong locks force them to make noise, which increases their risk of being caught.
Myth 3: "Expensive locks are just marketing"
Reality: ANSI/BHMA testing is objective and rigorous. Higher grades perform measurably better.
Myth 4: "My lock looks secure"
Reality: Appearance means nothing. A shiny brass finish on a Grade 3 lock doesn't improve security.
Myth 5: "I live in a safe neighborhood"
Reality: 60% of burglaries occur in residential areas considered "safe." Burglars go where valuable items are.
Beyond Basic Grades: Additional Security Features
Even within the same grade, locks can have additional security features:
Pick-Resistant Pins:
Bump-Proof Technology:
Drill-Resistant Plates:
Smart Lock Integration:
Key Control:
Making the Right Choice for Your Property
Residential Front Door:
Minimum: Grade 2
Recommended: Grade 1
Why: Your primary entry point deserves maximum protection
Residential Back/Side Doors:
Minimum: Grade 2
Recommended: Grade 2 (or Grade 1 for sliding doors)
Why: Common entry points for burglars
Interior Doors:
Minimum: Grade 3 acceptable
Recommended: Privacy locks (no security rating needed)
Why: Security isn't the primary concern
Commercial Properties:
Minimum: Grade 1
Recommended: Grade 1 with key control
Why: Insurance requirements, liability concerns, asset protection
Rental Properties:
Minimum: Grade 2
Recommended: Grade 2 with rekeying capability
Why: Balance between cost and tenant safety
What We Recommend: ASAP Mobile Locksmith MD
Our Standard:
We never install Grade 3 locks on exterior doors. Period.
For residential clients:
For commercial clients:
Our Process:
1. Free security assessment
2. Explanation of appropriate grades for each door
3. Product options at different price points
4. Professional installation with warranty
5. Honest recommendations based on your needs, not our profit
Service Area:
Take Action: Assess Your Current Locks
Check your locks now:
1. Look for ANSI/BHMA grade marking
2. If there's no grade marking, assume Grade 3 or unrated
3. Check the age of your locks (over 7 years should be replaced)
4. Test if they operate smoothly
5. Assess whether grade is appropriate for door location
If you can't find grade markings or have Grade 3 locks on exterior doors, it's time for an upgrade.
Call (443) 400-5125 for a free lock assessment and security consultation.
ASAP Mobile Locksmith MD will evaluate your property, explain which lock grades are appropriate for each door, and provide honest recommendations to protect your home or business.
Don't gamble with security—choose locks that meet professional standards.
Need Professional Locksmith Service?
ASAP Mobile Locksmith MD provides 24/7 emergency locksmith services throughout Maryland.
Call (410) 590-9844