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What does Grade 1, 2, and 3 mean?

All locks carry a grading certification that basically describes the durability of the lock. In addition to the grading qualifications, some high security locks also carry a U.L. certification for additional testing. Remember that a lock may have "Meets grade 2 standards" or "Exceeds grade 2 standards," but that does not necessarily mean that it was actually tested. If a lock carries the statement "Tested to Grade 2 certifications" or "Grade 1 certified" then it's actually been tested to meet the certifications.

Listed below are only some of the tests and criteria covered in this standard. For simplification, all tests and details of tests are not elaborated on. For exact and complete details of tests, etc. refer to the complete ANSI/BHMA standard.

1. Cycle test
One cycle consists of the knob or lever handle to be turned to completely retract the latch bolt allowing the test door to be opened. The knob or lever handle is then released allowing the test door to relatch. The turning direction of the knob is alternated every 100,000 cycles.

Performance tests are conducted for compliance at various intervals during and at the end of the cycle test.

Grade 1 - 1,000,000 cycles

Grade 2 - 800,000 cycles

Grade 3 - 800,000 cycles

2. Latchbolt projection

Grade 1 - 3/4 inch

Grade 2 - 1/2 inch

Grade 3 - 1/2 inch

3. Deadbolt projection

Grade 1 - 1 inch

Grade 2 - 5/8 inch

Grade 3 - 5/8 inch

4. Knob or Lever torque to retract latchbolt or latchbolt and deadbolt.

By Knob - all grades - 9 inch pounds

By lever - all grades - 28 inch pounds

5. Torque to retract deadbolt or deadbolt and latchbolt by turn.

All grades - 9 inch pounds

6. Torque to retract deadbolt or deadbolt and latchbolt by key.