High Security Locks & Commercial Deadbolts

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Protect your business with pick-resistant, drill-resistant locks that meet UL 437 high-security standards. Grade 1 commercial deadbolts and restricted keyway systems for offices, retail, healthcare, and industrial facilities.


What Are High Security Locks?

Not all locks are created equal. Standard commercial locks resist casual break-in attempts, but determined intruders can pick, bump, or drill them open in minutes. High security locks are engineered to resist professional attack methods that defeat ordinary locks.

A lock qualifies as "high security" when it meets UL 437 standards, which test resistance to:

• Lock picking (must resist for at least 10 minutes)

• Impressioning (making keys from the lock itself)

• Drilling (hardened drill-resistant components)

• Physical attack (pulling, prying, smashing)

• Key control (keys can only be duplicated with authorization)


For businesses throughout Greater Boston and the South Shore handling valuable inventory, sensitive data, cash, pharmaceuticals, or expensive equipment, high security locks provide protection that standard locks cannot match.


The difference between a hardware store lock and a high security lock? The hardware store lock stops opportunistic thieves. The high security lock stops professionals who know what they're doing.


We install, service, and maintain both high security lock systems and
commercial-grade deadbolts from manufacturers like Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, Assa Abloy, Schlage Primus, and Best Lock.Lock.
Our installations integrate with your existing commercial door hardware for complete security solutions.

Popular High Security Lock Brands

02 Medeco

The gold standard. Patented rotating pin technology, excellent key control, UL 437 certified. Common in government, healthcare, education.

02 Mul-T-Lock

Israeli-designed high security. Telescoping pin technology, extreme pick resistance. Popular in retail, jewelry stores, pharmacies.

03 Assa Abloy

Wide range of high security options. Excellent for master key systems. Used in corporate offices, multi-tenant buildings.

04 Schlage Primus


Integrates with existing Schlage commercial hardware. Good for facilities already using Schlage. Sidebar technology, patented keys.

Where High Security Locks Are Needed

Commercial Applications Throughout Greater Boston & South Shore

Retail Stores

Cash offices, stockrooms, back doors, display cases for jewelry/electronics, pharmacy areas. High security prevents break-ins after hours and controls employee access to high-value inventory.

Medical & Dental Offices

Medication storage (DEA requirements), records rooms (HIPAA compliance), equipment storage. High security locks meet regulatory requirements for controlled substances and protected health information.

Offices & Corporate Buildings

Server rooms, data centers, executive offices, accounting departments, file storage. Protect sensitive data, financial records, and intellectual property.

Property Management

Master key systems with high security prevent unauthorized key duplication across multi-tenant buildings. Each tenant gets restricted keys that can't be copied at hardware stores.
Many property managers combine high security locks with access control systems for comprehensive building security—mechanical locks for basic access, electronic credentials for high-security areas and detailed entry logging.

Pharmacies

DEA requires specific security measures for Schedule II-V controlled substances. High security locks meet these requirements for vault rooms, pharmacy areas, and storage.

Jewelry Stores

Inventory storage, safes, display cases, back doors. Insurance often requires UL 437 certified locks.

Industrial Facilities

Tool cribs, chemical storage, hazardous materials, quality control labs, prototype storage. Prevent theft of expensive tools, materials, and proprietary products.

Educational Facilities

Chemical storage, technology equipment, athletic equipment, maintenance storage. Prevent unauthorized access while maintaining key control.

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Have a question? We’re here to help. Send us a message and we’ll get be in touch.

FAQs

Common High Security Lock Questions

  • How much do high security locks cost?

    Pricing varies based on brand, features, and installation complexity. We provide detailed quotes after assessing your specific security needs and existing hardware. Contact us for a free security assessment and accurate pricing for your facility.


  • Can I upgrade my existing locks to high security?

    Often yes. Many high security cylinders retrofit into existing commercial locksets. We can upgrade just the cylinder (lock core) while keeping your current hardware, reducing costs significantly.


  • How do restricted keys work?

    When we install a restricted keyway system, your business is registered as the only authorized party who can request key duplication. Key blanks aren't available at hardware stores. When you need duplicates, you contact us with proof of authorization, and we cut keys from our secured key blanks.

  • Are high security locks worth the cost?

    For businesses with significant assets, sensitive data, or insurance requirements—absolutely. The cost of one successful break-in (stolen inventory, data breach, downtime, repairs) far exceeds the cost of proper high security locks. For low-risk businesses with minimal valuable assets, standard commercial-grade locks may suffice.


  • Do I need high security locks on every door?

    No. Risk-based approach: high security on exterior doors, cash offices, server rooms, medication storage, and high-value inventory. Standard commercial locks on low-risk areas like break rooms, restrooms, and general office space.


  • How long do high security locks last?

    15-20 years with proper maintenance. Commercial-grade construction and superior materials outlast standard locks by 2-3x.


What Makes a Lock "High Security"?

High security locks incorporate multiple advanced features that make unauthorized entry extremely difficult:


Pick Resistance

Standard pin tumbler locks can be picked in under 60 seconds by anyone who watches YouTube tutorials. High security locks use complex pin configurations, sidebars, rotating pins, magnetic pins, or interactive elements that require specialized tools and extensive skill to manipulate. UL 437 requires 10+ minutes of pick resistance.


Drill Resistance

Burglars drill locks to destroy the pin stack and turn the cylinder. High security locks include hardened steel inserts, ball bearings, and anti-drill pins that destroy drill bits and prevent penetration to the cylinder core.


Key Control

This is what most businesses actually need. Standard keys can be copied at any hardware store. High security locks use patented keyways with blanks only available to authorized locksmiths. You control who can duplicate keys—employees can't make unauthorized copies.


Restricted Keyways

Each business gets a unique key profile registered to your company. Key blanks require authorization to obtain. When you request duplicates, we verify your identity against our records. Former employees, contractors, or anyone else cannot walk into a hardware store and copy your keys.
This restricted keyway technology integrates seamlessly with
master key systems for businesses needing hierarchical access control.


Physical Attack Resistance

Reinforced cylinder housings, hardened bolts, anti-pry shields, and tamper-resistant set screws prevent forcible removal or destruction of the lock.

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Grade 1 Deadbolts for Business Security

Deadbolts are separate from high security locks, though you can get high security deadbolts. Here's what you need to know:


ANSI/BHMA Grading System:


Grade 1 (Commercial)

Highest security rating. Required for commercial applications. Withstands 10 strike test cycles (250,000 cycles), 360 lbs of force, and multiple attack methods. These are heavy-duty locks built for business use.


Grade 2 (Light Commercial/Residential)

Moderate security. Suitable for low-risk commercial applications or residential use. Withstands 5 strike cycles (150,000 cycles), 150 lbs force.


Grade 3 (Residential)

Basic security. Not recommended for commercial use. Minimal testing requirements.


For commercial properties, we only install Grade 1 deadbolts. Anything less fails during forced entry attempts and may void insurance coverage.


Deadbolt Types:


Single Cylinder Deadbolt

Key outside, thumbturn inside. Most common commercial deadbolt. Simple, effective, meets fire code for unobstructed egress from inside.


Double Cylinder Deadbolt

Key on both sides. Used on doors with glass panels (prevents breaking glass and reaching through to thumbturn). Fire code restrictions apply—can't use on primary exit paths.


Captive Key Deadbolt

Key can only be removed when deadbolt is locked. Ensures door is always secured when leaving.


Interconnected Deadbolt

Combines deadbolt and latch in single assembly. Push handle to exit (releases both), pull handle for reentry. Common on main entrances.

Why Businesses Choose High  Security Locks

Protection Beyond Standard Locks


Insurance Requirements

Many commercial insurance policies require high security locks for businesses handling high-value inventory, pharmaceuticals, jewelry, electronics, or cash. Some policies offer premium discounts for UL 437 certified locks.


Key Control Prevents Internal Theft

The biggest security risk isn't burglars—it's unauthorized key copies. Employees or former employees making copies of standard keys accounts for significant theft. High security key control prevents this entirely. Only authorized personnel can request duplicates, and all duplications are logged.


Protection from Professional Criminals

Smash-and-grab criminals don't pick locks. But organized retail crime rings, industrial espionage, and targeted thefts involve professionals who defeat standard locks easily. High security locks force them to move to easier targets.


Regulatory Compliance

Pharmacies, medical offices, research facilities, and businesses handling controlled substances often face regulations requiring high security locks on medication storage, data rooms, and restricted areas.


Long-Term Value

High security locks last 15-20 years with minimal maintenance and provide superior protection throughout their lifetime. Standard locks fail sooner and provide no key control. The high security lock delivers better protection and lower long-term costs.


Peace of Mind

Know that your business uses the same locks protecting banks, hospitals, government facilities, and high-security commercial properties nationwide.

New High Security Lock Installation

We assess your facility's vulnerabilities, recommend appropriate security levels for different areas, install UL 437 certified locks, and establish your restricted keyway registration.


Lock Upgrades & Retrofits

Upgrade existing locks to high security without replacing all door hardware. Many high security cylinders retrofit into existing commercial locksets.


High Security Master Key Systems

Combine the convenience of master keying with the protection of restricted keyways. Department managers get master keys that can't be duplicated, while maintaining hierarchical access control.


Key Control & Duplication

Registered key systems ensure only authorized personnel can request duplicates. We maintain records of all key cuts and verify authorization before duplicating.


Lock Rekeying & Maintenance

Rekey high security locks when employees leave or keys are lost. Regular maintenance ensures long-term reliability.


Emergency Services

Lock failures, lost keys, or break-in damage requiring immediate high security lock replacement. Available 24/7.

Why Choose Astro Locks as Your Locksmith?

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Top-Quality Hardware

Only high-grade, durable locks and security products 

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Licensed & Insured

Fully licensed locksmith professionals with comprehensive insurance coverage

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Transparent Pricing

Upfront quotes with no hidden fees or surprises

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Fast Response

We are local! 20-30 minute average response time near Canton, MA

Upgrade Your Business Security Today

Stop relying on standard locks that can be picked, bumped, or copied at any hardware store.


Free security assessment. UL 437 certified locks. Restricted key systems. Expert installation.


Greater Boston: (617) 448-6554 (Brookline Office)

South Shore: (617) 359-5625 (Sharon Office)


Authorized dealer: Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, Assa Abloy, Schlage Primus. Licensed, bonded, and insured in Massachusetts.