Most often found in commercial, institutional, and heavy duty applications, mortise locks are also found in many older homes, built prior to the introduction of tubular locks, as well as on some newer and higher priced installations. Mortise locks are more expensive, and more labor intensive to install, even when replacing an existing mortise lock. Ordering, installation and replacement of mortise locks is best left to a professional locksmith, or someone with professional installation experience. Most mortise locksets are special order items, with a wide range of levers, finish and trim combinations. To replace the Baldwin® double handle lock shown in the picture above took several weeks wait time for the special order with a total bill of over two thousand dollars, including installation. The brand names are often found on the latch trim plate (armor front) on more modern locks. They can be identified by the larger size of the latch faceplate, usually around 8" on a full mortise lockset. The cylinder is located above the knob or lever. Mortise deadbolts are also available, they have only the deadbolt feature and do not have knobs or levers. Mortise locks can accept a wide range of cylinders, including high security cylinders.

MAJOR COMPONENTS OF A MORTISE LOCKSET