Why is a Mortise Lock Considered Mysterious?

In its most basic form, a mortise lock is a lockset typically seen in institutional and business buildings. The mortise, on the other hand, will seem enigmatic due to the complexity of the lock's construction and operation. I have compiled these 5 entertaining and enlightening explanations for the lock's mysterious reputation and dispelled them here.

5 Reasons Why Mortise Lock Considered a Mystery

• Mortise lock cuts may compromise the door's integrity, although they are more secure than drilled cylindrical locks. They are more durable and reliable than cylindrical locks, and their adaptability makes them easier to integrate with pre-existing security infrastructure.

• Mortise locks include several mechanical pieces with strange shapes housed in a thick steel casing with holes punched in what seems like a code. The complex structure of these locks gives it a mysterious look. 

• The 'bodies' of these locks are concealed in an inconspicuous pocket carved into the door's edge. By the way, they are rarely something you can install alone. The installation specialists use their pocket-cutting accuracy. However, if the installer lacks competence, the installation of the outside trim might be a mystery.

• A Mortise lock has a variety of uses. The most typical roles for locking and unlocking doors in schools and hospitals are the entrance, classroom, classroom security, office, hallway, and storage functions. You can't tell much about the operation of this lock by inspecting its trim alone; instead, you need to look at the latches and the bolt.

• These locks are the standard for older structures, and a skeleton key unlocks them. Ancient civilizations were the ones who first used keys and locks. Genuine antique skeleton keys are very collectible, but the value of any set can vary widely based on factors like age, rarity, extras, and even the key's weight, form, and dimensions.

Mortise Lock Structure

A mortise lockset consists of a metal box housing the lock's operational component, which is then installed into a mortise carved into the door. Latch and lock bolt are the components of locks for interior and exterior doors. The lock on an inside door with continuous usage needs a latch bolt to keep the door shut. 

The components of a two-bolt mortise are a case, a face, a striking plate, and a lock assembly, which includes the handle or knob, the deadbolt, the keys, and so on. To enhance its visual beauty, the lock is constructed with a case plate that is screwed into place flush with the edge of the door, and it is then completed with a face plate of brass that is devoid of rivets.

The size of the lock is measured as the total length of the body from the exterior face of the front to the rear end. Mortise locks come in three standard sizes: 65, 75, and 100 mm. The lock may be unlocked with a key from the inside as well as the outside.

Conclusion

Due to its complex construction and hidden mechanism, a Mortise lock exudes an air of mystery. The complexity of the operation is concealed behind the door, heightening the sense of mystery. The complexity of its design enhances the secret of how it works.