As a locksmith, I am always trying to keep up with new products (locks) in order to be able to service them.  Along came the Kiwkset SmartKey series.  KwikSet is widely used in residential applications.  Mostly due to low price and easy availability and brand recognition.  Standard KwikSet stuff is rather easy to work on and bypass or pick, so as a locksmith, I like them.  As a homeowner, I have always avoided KwikSet, until now!

ANSI RATING 

In particular, the KwikSet SmartKey Deadbolt is a fine lock for the low price.  ANSI rates locks based upon a variety of criteria and assigns a grade 1-3, with 1 being the best lock.  Regular KwikSets are Grade 3 and provide "adequate" security.  The new KwikSet SmartKey Deadbolt is an ANSI Grade 1 deadbolt.  What does this mean?  It means it can: withstand more beating, withstand more kicking, has a longer deadbolt and a "cup" strike which adds significant kick-in protection.  I will say this now, I have the KwikSet SmartKey Deadbolt on my home.

INSTALLATION AND KICK-IN PROTECTION

Installing the lock properly is the only way to ensure you are fully protected.  Call me at 303-339-0085 if you live in the Denver, Colorado area, and I will get you an estimate.  When installing yourself, you need to make sure you use the strike and cup they provide, this includes the 3-4 inch screws.  These giant screws along with the cup and strike and longer deadbolt, provide EXCELLENT kick in protection.  Installing these items will require some drilling, a drill with a philips driver bit and maybe some chiseling.  Proper installation is crucial.  On the door, the parts should be an easy fit, if you had a deadbolt previously installed.  An unprepped door (no holes for a deadbolt) should be handled by an experienced installer or locksmith.

 THE LOCK CYLINDER SECURITY

Now to discuss the lock itself.  I hope to keep this part short, but I doubt it will happen.  First of all, lets talk about how secure it is.  This lock is not easily picked or bumped.  If you do not know what bumping is try looking around this sitem we have articles on lock bumping.  In fact, I have never picked or bumped mine, and I have quit trying.  Picking is possible but not practical unless the locksmith gets lucky.  As an experienced locksmith I would not even try to pick or bump this lock.  The lock can be opened, but that is my secret (shared with KwikSet rep.). 

The lock uses a sidebar system that is sheilded from drill attacks with a Hardened Steel Ball.  Another thing that this allows for is easy rekeying.  The little slot like hole to theleft of the keyway is for rekeying.  In order to change the key using the SmartKey tool, you will need the current key and a new key.  A side effect of this convenience is the lock is not easily masterkeyed.  I do have a way to do it, but the labor is definately more than a normal pin tumbler lock.  However, given the better security this lock offers, masterkeying is a small concession.

CONCLUSION

For an affordable lock, the KwikSet SmartKey Deadbolt is a  great buy.  ANSI Grade 1 securitythat is VERY pick and bump resistant.  Kick-In protection is excellent and rekeying is easy!

 Our Pricing On These Locks:

Single Cylinder (Most Common Finishes) $45

Single Cylinder (Some Finishes) $55

Double Cylinder (Most Common Finishes) $65

Double Cylinder (Some Finishes) $75

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