There’s a (Mag)Lock for That
Every opening deserves the right protection — especially when it’s unconventional, exposed to the elements, or governed by strict codes. From delayed egress to rooftop access, maglocks and specialty locks provide locksmiths and installers with flexible, code-compliant ways to secure challenging applications.
Today’s maglocks are more than strong—they’re smarter and easier to work with. Options like integrated motion sensors, bracket mounting, and strike templates simplify installation and minimize on-site work. Autosensing dual voltage and microprocessor controls eliminate the need for field adjustments, while LED indicators make it easy to confirm lock status from the secure side of the door.
And when it comes to meeting life safety and fire codes, maglocks are up to the task. Many models now support programmable delay times that meet local code requirements, such as the 30-second door release delay in California or 15 seconds in Chicago. Delayed egress models can include digital countdown displays, audible alerts, and integrated key reset switches—ensuring compliance with minimal added hardware.
Whether you’re upgrading an existing opening or securing a new one, maglocks and specialty locks offer a dependable way to expand your capabilities and meet code requirements head-on.
Retrofit Delayed Egress Made Easy
When code requirements change, many standard openings—such as interior and perimeter out-swinging doors—can be retrofitted with delayed egress maglocks to meet local regulations. These updates don’t have to be costly or complicated.
Bracket-mounted maglocks simplify the process by eliminating the need for special tools, reducing install time compared to direct-to-frame options. Many models now include integrated key reset, digital countdown displays, and audible alerts—all features designed to help meet modern code requirements for delayed egress while minimizing installer hassle.
Whether it’s a school, retail space, or healthcare facility, these features make it easier to bring existing openings up to code with confidence.
Solutions for Unconventional Openings
Maglocks and specialty locks continue to evolve, opening new possibilities for securing non-standard areas. For doors that don’t work well with electric strikes — or where standard hardware just won’t fit —there’s still a reliable solution.
Today’s offerings include compact maglocks for coolers and cabinets, explosion-proof models for hazardous industrial environments, and gate-ready units designed to protect large swinging or sliding access points. Roof hatches, glass entries, sliding doors, tool cages, and specialty enclosures can all be secured with the right maglock solution.
For locksmiths and installers, these options create new business opportunities without requiring new skill sets — just smart use of trusted hardware.
Strength for Every Scenario
Maglocks come in a range of holding forces to match the demands of different openings. Smaller models for cabinets or drawers offer around 300 lbs. of holding power, while utility enclosures may need closer to 600 lbs. High-security options can provide up to 1,800 lbs., and some heavy-duty models go as high as 4,000 lbs.—ideal for institutional or perimeter use. With the right force for each application, it’s easy to find a maglock that fits the job.
Specialty Locks Built for the Job
Locksmiths often face unique challenges on the job — tight spaces, tricky openings, or strict codes. Maglocks and specialty locks now come in a wide range of options to help meet those challenges head-on.
· Shear Aligning Maglocks
These fully concealed locks are ideal for clean aesthetics or small spaces — like cabinet doors, sliding glass panels, or frameless entries. They mount into the header, threshold, or door edge for a discreet and secure solution.
· Hybrid High-Security Locks
Combining magnetic and mechanical strength, these locks feature spring-loaded jaws and hold up to 4,000 lbs. — ideal for mental health centers, detention facilities, and other high-risk environments. Despite their robust performance, they’re surprisingly compact and installer-friendly.
· Compact Cabinet Maglocks
From jewelry cases to cash drawers to under-counter access, mini maglocks offer reliable protection for inventory or sensitive items. Weather-resistant models are also available for outdoor enclosures and retail displays.
· Shock-Absorbing Gate Locks
Designed to handle force and motion, these maglocks use a special shock-absorbing strike mount to extend hardware life—especially important in outdoor or industrial settings like refineries, grain mills, or storage yards. With 1,200 lbs. of holding force and real-time monitoring integration, they offer serious security where strikes won’t work.
· Gate Locks with High Holding Force
These perimeter-grade locks provide up to 2,000 lbs. of holding power and are available with automatic dual voltage and simple mounting kits. Common applications include amusement parks, tool storage, or anywhere free egress must be preserved in a power outage.
Expand Access, Even Off the Grid
Some openings just don’t play by the rules—think overhead doors, rooftop hatches, or remote loading docks. That’s where wireless card readers with onboard relays can help. They’re a simple way to trigger electrified hardware without pulling cable, giving you a reliable option when wired connections aren’t practical.
Surface-mounted and retrofit-ready, these readers open new possibilities for maglock installations in hard-to-reach or previously overlooked areas.
A Lock for Every Challenge
From delayed egress and fire code requirements to perimeter gates and display cabinets, today’s maglocks and specialty locks are more versatile than ever. With holding forces ranging from 300 to 4,000 lbs., integrated features that simplify setup, and configurations to suit almost any door type, these products give locksmiths and installers a better way to secure more spaces, with less friction.
Before you wrap your next job, take a second look around. There might be another opening that could use extra protection.
There’s a lock for that.
Ollie Shouse is a Product Manager for ASSA ABLOY’s Electromechanical Solutions Group in Phoenix, Arizona