Key takeaways
- SARGENT's literature says LFIC (Removable) and SFIC cylinders do not meet Security Grade 1 requirements.
- Hardware changes on a fire-rated opening are checked with the AHJ before anyone orders parts.
- With SFIC cores, Schlage lists the L9000 at Grade 1 operational and Grade 3 security.
- Schlage lists an ANSI curved lip strike and Corbin Russwin an ANSI straight lip standard, so the strike is matched to the installed model.
Standard
The standard and the function codes
ANSI/BHMA A156.13-2022 is the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association standard for mortise locks and latches.
BHMA says the standard includes operational, strength, security, cycle and finish tests, plus dimensional criteria. One published operational limit is that lever-operated locks must open with a maximum torque of 28 in-lbf.
Schlage lists its L/LV9050 as an entrance/office lock (ANSI F04). Its F04 Entry Lock describes a latch bolt operated by lever from either side, except when the outside lever is made inoperative by a stop or mechanical means other than key.
The lock functions guide explains how each function behaves from both sides of the door.
Functions
One lock body, more than one function
| Lock series | What the manufacturer states |
|---|---|
| Schlage L9000 | Universal lock case allows creation of 7 functions from a single lock body |
| Corbin Russwin ML2000 | 12 functions configured using one lockbody |
| SARGENT 8200 | A multi-functional lockbody that embodies 8 functions in 1 lockbody |
| BEST 40H | The design enables over 12 of the most commonly used lock functions |
Replacement fit
What differs between published specifications
The handles, levers and trim guide covers the trim side of the assembly.
| Item | Schlage L9000 | Corbin Russwin ML2000 |
|---|---|---|
| Case size | 4-7/16" x 6 1/16" x 1" | 5-7/8" x 4" x 15/16" |
| Knob or lever to cylinder spacing | 3-7/8" | 3-5/8" |
| Standard strike | ANSI curved lip | ANSI straight lip |
Backset
Confirm the installed lock's backset against its own catalog page.
Stile width
SARGENT lists a 4-1/2" minimum stile for the 7800, 8200 and R8200.
Strike
The Schlage page lists an ANSI curved lip strike, and the Corbin Russwin catalog lists an ANSI straight lip standard.
Spindle
BEST states that the outside spindle on the 40H is designed to twist off during abuse. Record the spindle and trim condition when a lever turns without retracting the latch.
Cylinders
The cylinder changes the grade
Schlage and SARGENT publish security grades that depend on the cylinder used.
Thelock types guide covers cylinder formats, and the rekey and master key guide covers keying systems.
Schlage L9000
With FSIC interchangeable core cylinders, Schlage lists Grade 1 operational and Grade 2 security. With SFIC cores it lists Grade 1 operational and Grade 3 security.
SARGENT 7800/8200
SARGENT states that LFIC (removable) cylinders and SFIC cylinders do not meet Security Grade 1 requirements.
BEST 45H
BEST lists Grade 1 security for the 45H when the lock is used with a drill resistant core.
AHJ
Fire-rated and egress openings
Questions about fire ratings and free egress belong to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), not to a parts catalog.
Corbin Russwin states that any retrofit or other field modification to a fire rated opening can potentially impact the fire rating of the opening. Its catalog directs readers to consult a code specialist or local code official, the AHJ, when retrofitting an existing fire-rated opening.
The same catalog marks some function listings with a note that the function does not allow free egress and can pose a life safety hazard. Elwin does not decide those questions. The AHJ decides how fire-rating and egress rules apply to your opening.
The fire-rated door requirements guide covers the opening itself.
Questions about commercial mortise locks
What is a commercial mortise lock?
A commercial mortise lock is a lock cased in a pocket cut into the door edge. A replacement has to match the installed model's case, spacing, strike and cylinder, not just the brand name.
Do mortise locks from different brands use the same dimensions?
Their standard strikes are listed differently. Schlage lists an ANSI curved lip strike for the L9000, and Corbin Russwin lists an ANSI straight lip strike for the ML2000.
Does the cylinder affect the security grade?
Yes, as the manufacturers publish it. Schlage lists the L9000 at Grade 3 security with SFIC cores, and SARGENT states that SFIC cylinders do not meet Security Grade 1 requirements.
Who decides whether I can change a mortise lock on a fire-rated or egress door?
The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) decides. Corbin Russwin states that a retrofit or other field modification to a fire rated opening can potentially impact its fire rating, and directs readers to a code specialist or local code official.
Next step
Start with a site walk or a service call
Elwin installs, repairs, replaces and configures commercial door hardware across the San Francisco Bay Area from Santa Clara.
For a failing or mismatched mortise lock, request a site walk, or call (408) 539-0535 about commercial locksmith service and commercial door repair.
Sources and further reading
These sources back up the general guidance. Your building and the people who approve the work decide the details for your doors.