Due to misplaced keys, we are going to either rekey or replace an old lock on our front door.
The manufacturer was Barrows, which seems to be somewhat rare since our local hardware doesn't carry blanks for new keys.
We would replace it only if it is feasible replace only the approx 1" diameter cylinder on the deadbolt with common brand such as Schlage or Baldwin or …
What security factors come into play? For example, does the rarity of Barrows locksets make them more secure, or is Barrows know for poor or good security?
Best Answer
Lockpicking is tremendously sensitive to the accuracy of manufacture. A good-quality cylinder really is more secure than a cheap equivalent. (There are good-quality second-source cylinders, but don't expect to find them in a $3 lock set.)
Degree and kind of protection from brute-force attacks varies; that's a lot of what the lock grading system is about. Grade 2 locks are physically more durable than the cheap grade 3 versions. (Grade 1, commercial, is more so but is mostly needed where you're also concerned about how well the lock will stand up to the wear and tear of being used frequently.)
High-security cylinders do make a difference. So do higher-security strikes, anchored to the framing rather than the trim.
Master keying should be used only when necessary and should always start with a more-secure-than-usual cylinder. (Some locksmiths describe master keying as "the controlled destruction of security" -- I'd say reduction but they aren't far off.)
And so on. Seriously, the number of ways to get security wrong or right approaches the number of lock designs on the market, and there are real limits on what can be discussed in a public forum .... or should be, anyway.