It is common knowledge that rim locks do not provide the home owner with sufficient quality security, if they are used as the sole lock for an external door. Whereas they may once have been sufficient for securing a castle, they are no longer considered safe enough to add to your front door, unless they are coupled with another more secure lock, such as a deadbolt for example.

Due to the spring release mechanism inside the rim lock, these locks are extremely easy to force open. The locks can be forced quickly and without making any noise, simply by inserting a credit card for example, around the latch that goes into the door frame. Just by inserting it and slipping it back, the door can become unlatched and a burglar can find easy entrance, without having to actually physically ‘break’ anything.

.If they are not that useful for securing a house, then why do so many homeowners still attach them to their external doors?  Oftentimes it is because of décor and style. While you can slip down to the hardware store and buy a regular rim lock, they really are not that great looking.  However, a simple search online will soon turn up a whole slew of antique or replicated rim locks that truly are very ornate and beautifully crafted.  These are the type of rim locks that home owners often delight to attach to their external doors, mainly as a decorative lock.

There is no comparison when it comes to some of the designs of the older rim locks. The locksmiths of old certainly took a real delight in their job, and they were not only metalworkers but also artists as well. Some rim locks are designed with intricate patterns, others have engraved animals on them. The brass rim lock in particular is very beautiful.

If you are interested in actual antique rim locks, there are some for sale online for fairly reasonable prices. Depending on the style of lock, how old it is, and the condition it is in you can pay anywhere from around $35 to $200 for an antique rim lock.  These locks have usually been repaired, and they actually do work. However, don’t rely on them solely for your home’s security, be sure to attach another, more secure lock to your external doors as well.

photo credit: DavidSt