What lock would you buy (for protection)?

[globallockytoo]

Zeke is right. The frame and jamb are integral to security. It really doesnt matter what you install if the frame and jamb are weak.

Most apartments these days have steel jambs (cheaper and easier for builders to pre-fab).....so this is usually a good sign.

One reason, I really like the clawbolt deadlock is because it actually physicaly connects the door and jamb together. Even the elcheapo Bird brand or common Yale....will stand up to some punishment, when locked. It is surface mounted and if fitted correctly will have 6 screws holding the lock body to the door and at least 3 screws holding the strike to the jamb. The strike is often flanged too, which greatly increases the strength.

If you want to maximise pick resistance or key control, perhaps consider a 'high security' cylinder product. I really think sometimes it can be overkill to put something that good on, in an apartment and agree that it could potentially be inviting trouble.

[Raymond]

MHole,
I do agree with your statements to a certain degree. If there are two identical cars in the parking lot and one has a chain on the steering wheel, it most likely will not be the first one stolen. However, I kind of like things to be very subtle. If the burglar sees deadbolts on all the doors from a distance and when he gets there finds a Schlage Primus instead of a Schlage standard it should give him cause to seriously reconsider. The other example of lots of deadbolts is comic overkill and the neighbors will only think this person is seriously paranoid or actually has something worth the protection.

Adding heavy, reinforced strikes and cylinder guards can be very normal in appearance depending on the brand and installation style.