Fortress BS 3621 2.5-inch/ 64mm 5 Lever Maximum Security Mortice Deadlock - Brass Effect

I removed my existing ERA 5 lever deadbolt lock, which was getting sticky and unreliable after 20 years service. The ERA fortress lock was the closest match to what I already had. On the photos it looked exactly the same and the reported dimensions were the same, so I hoped it would be a like for like replacement. The product was delivered promptly and was much as expected, though a little vertical play on the bolt meant that the action can feel like it might snag a little. but overall no issues with what I have bought. What was really irritating was the minor dimensional differences to the existing one. The spacing between the two main fixiig holes was 2mm different. The the body is slightly thicker (less than 1 mm difference) and the brass plate that holds it in position was 0.2mm wider ( some chisel work needed there then). The key hole is positioned about 3 mm different to the original (aaagh!). The bolt moves out by a further couple of mm. Thus what could have been a 10 minuted swapover job now becomes more than an hour and needs chisel work and movement of holes.Irritating.Why could they not say it is not a like for like swapover? Why do they have to make these small dimensional changes?Whilst I had the old lock out I dismantled it, cleaned and lubricated it, so that it now works more smoothly than before. So I put it back ini position. The new lock can sit on the shelf for a bit longer, until I really have to change it and can face the task of making it fit properly.However, if you just want a lock to fit into a new door, it is fine. For my purpose, not so fine.

Similar to a previous review, this lock is about 2mm wider than precious make and 3/4mm taller. So you'll need to get a wood chisel on top of this to carve out more space to replace your old lock. Furthermore, it's handy to have smaller screws to hand as otherwise not all of them will go in and hold the plates in place, if you've had a smaller lock before.I just used a screwdriver and it looks a bit messy but got the job done. The lock itself looks sturdy enough.My message to ERA is WHYYY make your new locks these tiny measurement alterations? So frustrating. But anyway got it in with 2 hours of work. Should be sorted for the next 20 years so in the grand scheme of things not bad.

Feels like a heavy well made Lock.Brass fittings and access aren't lightweight or cheap looking either.

Both Era and Gridlock are favoured by my local council. All three prone to letting you down!I recently replaced one of these, with exactly the same problem as another reviewer, key sheared in lock. It had been stiff to turn from new and was only fitted three months previously. Had to cut through bolt with grinder to get shed opened.Another Era lock I had became very awkward to get the key to turn at all. After stripping for inspection, I could not find any problems. Stripping, cleaning and reassembling using graphite powder solved the problem completely. My other two Era locks have now had the same treatment and operate smooth as silk. All three locks now operate better than they were when new.

Needs a bit of Greece but that's a manufacturing floor. This looks very well made it does the job it's easy to install and it's beautifully finished with all the parts. I am in Locksmith I recommend these although I buy most of my from Trade. Amazon speed and service of delivery is absolutely exceptional so he's worth losing the trade discount to get the service from Amazon by the lock and Amazon or outstanding