Key Highlights
Mechanical evolves: Traditional hardware gains new life through smarter integration, digital ordering, and hybrid features.
Commercial upgrades: Manufacturers focus on efficiency, customization, and control.
Design matters: Sleek finishes like black matte and refined lever styles bring aesthetics to the forefront of door hardware.
Built for the elements: Outdoor-rated exit devices and gate locks deliver reliable performance in tough environments.
Expanding markets: Multifamily and RV applications open new opportunities for locksmiths serving diverse access needs.
Though electronic access control does appear to be the sexier, faster growing segment of the locksmith industry, more traditional product lines also remain important. In fact, items like door closers, exit trim, master key systems and interchangeable cores are a big part of the commercial locksmith’s job. And keys show no signs of going away – even if they are the backup method for electronic locks.
Commercial Upgrades
As commercial customers ask for security upgrades, part of the locksmith’s job is to provide cost-effective solutions. Not every opening needs fully functioning EAC. Medeco’s Dale Bowman recommends custom-designed key systems, recognizing that only select doors require the highest measures of protection, while a moderate level of access control is fine for lower-value or secondary openings within a building. Medeco’s patented M4 cylinders provide a high level of key control, while Medeco’s eCliq electronic cylinders are a gateway to EAC.
For easier ordering, Medeco launched its Medco Fusion web-based tool that speeds-up and simplifies the Medeco ordering process. Customers are prompted to sign agreements, design coining dies, build master key systems, and upload key schedules. This innovative platform is designed to streamline and simplify the onboarding process, featuring digital agreements and coining die design capabilities.
Using Medeco Fusion, customers and dealers can:
- Digitally Sign Agreements
- Design Coining Dies
- Design Your Key System
“The other big trend is how mechanical locks now are all being ‘belled and whistled’ a little bit so that they’ve got signal switches and communicate effectively with cameras and security systems. So now we’re seeing that real integration or synergy that you see between mechanical locking coming in and being a part of the full-monitored security situation, which continues to evolve and sees a lot of movement,” noted Securitech Group General Manager Mark Berger.
Commercial and high-value retail customers are increasingly asking for more fortified locks with EAC features. One example of this trend is the Securitech Paramaxx, designed to provide secure, seamless entry with free exiting during the day. The system boasts multi-point deadbolt security, activated remotely via pushbutton, transmitter, or timed lockdown. Its surface-mounted design simplifies installation, while the 60" tall stainless-steel housing for durability.
With factory pre-installed multi-point locks, stainless steel deadbolts, and a vandal-resistant slip clutch, Paramaxx provides top-tier protection. An internal shutter enhances resistance against tampering, and its compatibility with standard mortise cylinders ensures versatility.
Following this trend of customized solutions, Schlage has packaged its commercial/multifamily locks together into the Schlage Performance Series, which includes:
- PM Series Grade 1 Mortise Locks – 23 mechanical and three electrified functions
- PC Series Grade 1 Cylindrical Locks – eight mechanical functions PT Series Grade 2 Tubular Locks – four mechanical functions
· "With the Performance Series, property teams can outfit every door with hardware that works as hard as they do," said Nate Spitz, general manager, Locks & Access Solutions, Allegion. "This portfolio expansion helps customers match the right product to the right performance need and application – without sacrificing the quality you expect from Schlage."
In addition to the in-demand levers and finishes offered, two new decorative levers—Selena (contoured, round concave) and Playa (bold, rectangular)—plus a square rose (D) on PM and PT Series can help create a cohesive look from lobby to unit.
Exiting in Style
Aesthetics are also important, with black matte finishes gaining in popularity in the last two years. The Adams Rite 8800 Series Starwheel Rim Exit Devices are the latest exit trim to go dark. Finish choices now include Black Suede Powder (BSP).
The durable Adams Rite 8800 Rim Exit Devices offer reliable security and streamlined design for narrow stile aluminum doors. Its unique Starwheel bolt interlocks door to frame to provide enhanced strength and prevent jamb spread, while a clean profile and fewer pinch points make it ideal for high-traffic storefronts. They are available with a range of mechanical and electrical options, multiple finishes and compatible products for a seamless solution.
Meanwhile Allegion has fortified its popular Von Duprin 98/99 Series exit devices to withstrand rugged environments, offering the Outdoor Defense (OUT) option.
"As the demand for reliable security solutions in outdoor environments continues to grow, we're excited to introduce the Outdoor Defense option for Von Duprin exit devices. This innovation not only enhances the durability and performance of our 98/99 Series but also offers additional protection for critical components against weather conditions,” said Marli Williams, general manager, Exits & Door Controls at Allegion. “Our commitment is to provide our customers with peace of mind, knowing that their panic hardware is built to help withstand the elements."
The Outdoor Defense option is designed to safeguard against moisture, temperature variations and corrosion in exterior applications. Available for the popular 98/99 Series rim and surface vertical rod exit devices, this option is engineered to protect device functionality. The Outdoor Defense option is also available for mechanical devices as well as popular electronic components, such as switches, latch retraction, delayed/controlled egress, alarm kits and more. Outdoor Defense products are designed to perform in outdoor conditions within the parameters of the products testing conditions such as courtyards, perimeter security, rooftops and patios.
Several popular electrical options are available with the Outdoor Defense option. Latch retraction (QEL), alarmed exits (ALK), delayed/controlled egress (CX) and monitoring (RX and LX), are all available options.
"With the introduction of the Outdoor Defense option, we are setting a new standard in exterior security solutions. This offering reflects our dedication to engineering excellence and customer satisfaction, providing robust protection for both mechanical and electronic components,” said Williams. “Whether it's for courtyards, rooftops or perimeter security, Von Duprin's Outdoor Defense helps ensure safety without compromise in outdoor environments.”
TownSteel’s Aegis ESG Exit Device Trim is a durable, retrofit-friendly exit device trim engineered for high-traffic openings in commercial, healthcare, and educational facilities. Following the trend in recent years, a status indicator is included. Available in multiple trim and cylinder configurations, the double-sided status indicator provides instant visual confirmation of the trim’s status from either side of the door and adjusts automatically as the device is engaged.
Another advantage is its retrofit capabilities, with leading exit devices from Von Duprin, Sargent, Dorma, Corbin Russwin, and others, eliminating the need for full replacements while reducing costs. Built from machined stainless steel, the ESG is ANSI/BHMA A156.3 Grade 1 Certified, UL 10(C) 3-hour fire rated, and ADA compliant.
The Growing Multifamily Market
Marks USA is ready to capitalize on the booming multifamily housing market with its new line of deadbolts and interconnected Locks, designed for superior security, effortless egress, and smart integration — ideal for commercial, multifamily, and residential applications.
"Marks USA has always stood for strength, reliability, and innovation," said Ray Krispin, Sales Director for Marks USA. "With these new Deadbolts and Interconnected Locks, we're offering property owners and security pros the best of all worlds — durability, code compliance, security, and the modern convenience of keyless smart access."
These new locks meet growing demands for cost-effective, code-compliant quick egress while providing enhanced security and one-motion exit for seniors, children, and others needing easy, reliable escape. Each model combines deadbolt strength with the convenience of a passage lever or thumbturn and a non-handed, cylinder-free design for fast retrofits without mortise door prep.
Reducing liability and supporting insurance and ADA code compliance, the locks also offer smart access options, including Smart Cards (MiFare EV1/EV2/EV3), Bluetooth, and mobile credentials. Powered by just four AA batteries, they support 5,000 users, 7,000 audit events, and hundreds of schedules, with battery life of up to three years.
(See our Best of Electronic Access Control article, pages 20-24, for more on multifamily solutions.)
Multifamily properties also involve gated access and amenities, and Codelocks’ XtraD Gate Lock, the newest member of the Gate Solutions by Codelocks line, is designed to stand up to robust use. This single point, bolt through, fixed gate lock is specifically designed for gates where a coded lock is the preferred method of entry for secured perimeters and outdoor areas.
The XtraD Gate Lock is engineered to work with Codelocks’ heavy duty CL500 and CL600 mechanical locks for basic access control, and the electronic CL5000 lock for enhanced flexibility with time-sensitive codes. These options make the XtraD Gate Lock suitable for a wide range of gated access control environments, including those with high traffic use and in corrosive environments.
Options available for the XtraD Gate Lock include a marine grade finish for harsh outdoor and coastal environments. Lock options operated by either a knob or a lever are available.
Matt Welty, Vice President at Codelocks Inc. said, “Perimeter gates, and especially its locking systems, are crucial to the overall security of commercial properties and public areas like tennis courts, schools, parks and playgrounds. The XtraD is a long-lasting gate solution, with the convenience and quality of Codelocks’ mechanical and electronic locks, to withstand harsh conditions while providing secure and reliable access control.”
Codelocks’ XtraD Gate Lock has a full stainless-steel construction for corrosion resistance and durability and has been tested to over a million cycles. The heavy-duty latch bolt with a separate deadlocking plunger bolt can be adjusted up to 5/8” – to accommodate variations in the gap between gate and post – without the need for lock removal.
There’s A Code for That
In some great industry news for locksmiths, Framon and HPC/Hudson Lock have announced a collaboration that results in a comprehensive shared key code database for users of both Framon’s Genericode 25 and Hudson Lock’s CodeSource. Each company still has its own front end and market their own software, but all codes will be available in both products.
Genericode 25 includes the following key enhancements:
Expanded Code Libraries: Genericode 25 incorporates an updated vehicle index and thousands of new codes, including support for Trimark high-security and FIC J series keyways. These will be added automatically via a forthcoming update, keeping users current without extra steps
Enhanced Hardware Support: Genericode 25 now includes support for the HPC Codemax machine, giving locksmiths the ability to control one of the industry’s most trusted code machines directly from the software. This integration streamlines the key-cutting process and marks the beginning of expanded hardware compatibility in future releases.
User-Friendly Updates: The latest version is delivered via USB drive or digital download, making installation easy across multiple PCs. Each update includes three activation codes, and additional unlock codes are available for purchase.
Comprehensive Tools: Genericode 25 offers robust features including general code lookup, key blank cross-referencing, depth & space data, and code retrieval for vehicle, utility, motorcycle, and padlock keys. It also includes a handy locksmith company directory for quick reference.
From Hudson Lock/HPC: CodeSource 2025 is the essential software upgrade locksmiths have been waiting for! It is packed with the latest automotive, commercial, and residential key data. Whether you’re cutting by code or confirming a key series, this easy-to-use program puts powerful, accurate information right at your fingertips.
Designed for professionals who demand precision and speed, CodeSource helps you cut with confidence, every time. Compatible with HPC cutting machines, let it be your go-to tool for smarter service and faster turnarounds. It is available through authorized distributors.
Automotive
STRATTEC, the OE-licensed aftermarket supplier for Ford, General Motors and MOPAR, continues to add GM-licensed fobs to its lineup. The latest include proximity fobs for multiple truck and SUV platforms, compatible with the 2015-2020 Chevy Tahoe, 2019-2020 Chevy Silverado, 2019-2020 GMC Sierra, and 2015-2020 GMC Yukon. On the Ford side, the transponder key and fob product line has also increased. Go to http://aftermarket.strattec.com for full lists.
Meanwhile, just a few days too late for our 2025 roundups, Kaba Ilco Corp. has introduced its Ilco Eco Keys, which the company describes as “entry-level automotive transponder key designed with locksmiths and their customers in mind. Ilco Eco Keys offers a cost-effective solution for key replacement without compromising on quality and reliability.” OEM refurbished remotes are also available from Ilco.
We expect 2026 to be a big year for transponder equipment and key machines. Advanced Diagnostics has introduced the Smart Pro Mini and Lock Labs and XHorse are among the companies bringing new key machines to the market. We will dive into the key machines in our January issue.
For locksmiths and others concerned about securing their equipment, Mul-T-Lock expanded their MVP (Mul-T-Lock Van Protection) line with the MVP 3000, which took top product honors at ALOA 2025. MVP locks are trusted by fleet owners, service providers, and delivery operations for their durability, key control, and flexible keying options. The newest addition, MVP3000, is a stainless steel slam-lock engineered for rear and sliding van doors, but also suitable for industrial enclosures and entrance doors. It’s compatible with the MTL400 platform—Mul-T-Lock’s advanced key system that offers patented key control, high resistance to picking and drilling, and long-term key duplication protection.
The Great Outdoors
An emerging lucrative market for locksmiths could be campers and campsites. U.S. recreational vehicle (RV) market is estimated at between 10 and 12 million units and growing.
“Most lock manufacturers build their locks around that RV lock system where each brand has their own proprietary cylinders, their own proprietary keys, and the locksmith needs an awareness of each brand's limitations or each brand’s strengths,” explained Todd Peterson, CPG Brands, which is the aftermarket supplier of Global Link RV locks and keys.
More than 4 million RVs in the field today have at least one door that is keyed to one of these mass-produced, generic key codes: CH751, G391, CK330, CH502, R001, 35. CPG Global PRO Series locks can be re-keyed to 1 of 91 unique key codes for a more secure key system on your customer’s RV.
Capitalizing on this market, Framon Mfg./Blue Dog Keys has released additional Global Link RV key sets, ideal for locksmiths and RV service pros working with the Global Link 500 series.
- BD1103 - Global Link 500 Series Master Key (MK9012)
- BD1104 - Global Link 500 Series Change Key (CK9012)
- BDGL500SET - Global Link Tryout Set with MK and CK
· The BD1103 Master Key provides master access for Global Link 500 Series locks, while the BD1104 Control/Removal Key lets you easily remove and install lock cores.