How do I Choose a Lock?

Mechanical Lock, Electronic Lock, or Other System?

Most of our safes are built on a serviceable platform that allows for a variety of different locks to be fitted on the safe. Customer’s often ask “What do you think? Electronic Lock or Mechanical Dial?” There’s a common misconception that mechanical locks are full proof. However, all lock can have malfunctions, and we see similarly low rates between mechanical dials and electronic locks. It’s important to note that not all locks are designed or manufactured equal, and we work to only bring locks in the building that are well made, require little maintenance, and are dependable for the long run. 

Here’s our normal explanation of the options: 

1.) Mechanical Dial - These are the common “traditional” rotating lock with 4 numbers and a certain number of rotations in between. We see these go out on safes about 10% of the time. These are typically a “Group 2 High Security Safe Lock” certification, higher security models are available, but are also more complicated. These locks are typically made by Sargent & Greenleaf or Big Red.

Advantages: No battery, and the design hasn’t changed much in the past century. The lock could be left, unused for 10 years, and will likely operate the same way as it did 10 years earlier, with nothing needed. These have a classic look and are available in a few different finishes (silver, gold, black chrome, matte black). Some of the finishes have better visibility than others. 

Disadvantages: In a perfect scenario, these take about 15-20 seconds to get into. However, oftentimes customers have to try it a few times to get the rotations right, and opening the safe could take a couple of minutes. These are also not built for the end-user to change the combination, so if you want the combination changed, you likely need a service call from a safe technician. 

2.) Group 1 Electronic Locks - These locks typically have an 6 digit combination. We see them outfitted on the safes we sell about 90% of the time. These have the higher “Group 1 High Security Safe Lock” certification because they have a time out feature that limits how many combinations can be tried in an 24 hour period. These locks are typically made by Securam, Sargent & Greenleaf, or American Security. 

Advantages: These locks are fast and allow access in a few seconds or less with your 6 digit code. They also are designed for the end user to change the combination as often as their needs may be. There are a variety of different locks that offer options like fingerprint entry as additional access to the 6 digit code, hybrid versions that use a 6 digit code but allow for mechanical bolt retraction for less wear on electronic components, and others that allow multiple users so that different people accessing the safe can customize their code. Some also have lighting for better visibility in the dark. These also allow for a management user that can revoke access codes for secondary users. 

Disadvantages: These locks have a 9 volt battery that powers the lock, and the 9 volt is accessible from the outside of the safe. So while you’re never locked away from your battery, you do have to have a good battery in the lock to access your safe. A single 9 Volt often lasts years in a lock - similar to a smoke detector. 

As you choose, you’re safe, we want you to have the type of lock that best suits your application. Be sure to talk to your options with your Dexter‘s team member to help decide!