I see that Sturdy is now offering an option to have -both- a mechanical (dial) and electronic lock. This would be the best fo both worlds to me. The electronic for everyday convenience, but the manual for when (or if) the electronic goes tits-up.
I've not pulled the back off of my Big Horn door yet, but it's something I'm planning on doing. For those more "in the know" than I...what would be involved in adding a 2nd lock to an existing safe? Specifically, adding an electronic lock to my (current) mechanical lock? I would really, really like to have an electronic lock, but I've just heard too many stories about failed electronic locks to be comfortable with that.
Some safes use two locks, that each work as individual locks. Both locks need to be open in order to open the safe.
Some safes use two locks, and opening either lock will open the safe.
Some safes use a single lock that has both functions built in. Either function will open the safe.
It would be very difficult to convert an existing safe to either of the first two options. The third option is usually doable as a retrofit. Keep in mind this is not a new invention by gun safe manufacturers. Dual locks have been used on safes going back well into the 1800's, and there have been instances of gun safes using this set up in the past. National Security used to offer dual locks set up as the first option back in the 1990s.
Ok, I've found reference to the Lagard 2441 and 6441, but haven't actually been able to find either for sale. That sounds like exactly what I would want.
Ok, I've found reference to the Lagard 2441 and 6441, but haven't actually been able to find either for sale. That sounds like exactly what I would want.
LaGard builds a redundant lock, and it is my understanding that another manufacturer should be unveiling one in the very near future.
You can probably find somebody to sell you locks (even I sell locks), but it's usually not very common to just find somebody in the lock selling business. Most of the manufacturers only sell to distributors which restrict the sale to bonafide professionals. The installation of a redundant lock is also a bit more tricky that installing a regular lock (which itself can be tricky). I can't say that I would suggest trying to do it yourself, unless you have previous experience. It is not uncommon for me to see locksmiths asking for advice on installing these locks on one of the safe tech forums I belong to.
I have an Amvault with Lagard 3000 electronic keypad and 6441 redundant mechanical lock w/ duress output. You can open the safe with either the electronic lock or the mechanical dial. Important to note that the mechanical lock is a UL Group 1 and has 4 wheels instead of the usual 3. Takes a bit longer to open, but is more secure.
I have heard of some companies charging upwards of $750 to install this combo. The dealer I used sells the upgrade for <$300.
