AUTOMATIC DEADLOCKING - A device fitted to a lock where closing the door or gate reverts the bolt into a deadlocked state.
BOLT - A device usually made from brass or steel used to secure a door or gate to its frame.
DEADBOLT - A bolt which is put into the locked and unlocked position by the key only. The exception to this is a fire escape lock which can be unlocked from the inside, usually using a handle.
DEADLOCK - A lock which is locked and unlocked by the key only. The exception to this is a fire escape lock which can be unlocked from the inside, usually using a handle.
DETAINER - A unique, alternative to a lever which offers a greater number of key variations, particularly when the key is master keyed.
DIFFERS - The number of different key combinations that are possible with a particular locking mechanism.
DUAL CONTROL - A lock which can be locked/unlocked both electronically & mechanically.
ESCUTCHEON - A protective plate around a key hole. Larger escutcheons support the key as it enters the lock ensuring correct alignment with the mechanism.
FACE PLATE - Plate or outer forend which is the only part of a fitted mortice lock that is visible.
HOOK BOLT - A lock with a hook shaped bolt used for securing sliding doors.
HORIZONTAL - Lock which has its key hole and handle on the same horizontal line.
LATCH - A bolt which is with drawn by the handle, not the key.
LEVER - A moving obstruction in a lock activated by the key. Use of the wrong key will either over-lift or under-lift the lever rendering the lock inoperable. The more levers there are the greater number of key combinations.
LOCKING LATCH - A latch which can be locked and withdrawn by the key as well as being withdraw by the handle when in the unlocked condition.
LOCKS TO PASS - Any number of locks made to one key combination.
MASTER KEYING - An arrangement which allows one key to operate a number of differing locks.
MORTICE - Fixed into the edge rather than onto the face of the door.
REVERSIBLE LATCH - A latch which can be reversed to suit opening in or opening out situation.
SURFACE MOUNTED - Fixed onto the face of a door.
SINGLE SIDED - A lock operable from one side only. (Such locks are handed)
SUITED LOCK - A lock which is one of a number which are made to be operated by more than one key combination i.e. Master, Servant.
THROW - The distance a bolt travels from the unlocked to the locked position. Some locks may have the bolt 'Double Thrown' by an extra turn of the key or a second key called the 'Doubles Key'.
VERTICAL - Lock which has its key hole and handle on the same vertical line.