Topic: Reviews
Zoo hardware are now stocking a range of reproduction lever locks from various manufacturers that have expired patents.
I have used a lot of the three lever mortice range from my local locks supplier without any issues for well over a year now but was only recently made aware of the newer BS rated locks.
The first I got my hands on was a free sample lock, a BS Era Fortress copy from my mate Steve at Hugo Locksmiths Barking. The lock looked and functioned as good as, if not smoother than the original Fortress design, I particularly preferred the new chunkier keys.
Upon internal inspection it seems the dimpled ERA levers have been replaced with flat spaced levers.
I was however concerened about the quality of the latch spring in the sashlock version which does not sit comfortably in place and will undoubtedly fall loose once the grease has thinned out some.
The genuine ERA version has a much beefier spring.
The price difference compared with the originals was peanuts so decided not to buy into any of these particular locks.
Last week a locksmith on the Island forum mentioned they were now reproducing the 3g114/3k74 Union (formerly Chubb) range of mortice locks, which as you know have always been pricier than your average lock.
I have always replaced these like for like where possible in the past due to the non standard dimensions so was interested to see what an alternative could offer.
I ordered a couple of Zoos BS deadlocks replicating the 3g114 and was thus time pleasantly surprised with the quality which was as good as the originals aside from the lesser grade brass in the bolt.
At nearly £10 cheaper than the genuine Union locks, these are worth investing in.
Zoo has an extensive and expanding range of products that are worth checking out via the website: http://www.zoohardware.co.uk/products/byhierarchy/15/17.html#1/12
Updated: Tuesday, 13 April 2021 10:21 AM BST
Post Comment | Permalink | Share This Post