Review of the Kwikset 660 Deadbolt Lock, Polished Brass

 

When it comes to securing your home, one of the most fundamental and important choices is selecting a reliable deadbolt lock. The Kwikset 660 Deadbolt Lock in Polished Brass offers a combination of robust security features and an elegant aesthetic, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their front entry door. This review will dive into the details of this product, covering its design, features, installation, performance, and overall value to help you determine if it's the right fit for your home.

Overview of the Kwikset 660 Deadbolt Lock

The Kwikset 660 is a single-cylinder deadbolt lock designed for residential use. It is available in a variety of finishes, including Polished Brass, which gives it a bright, classic look that complements both traditional and modern entryways. This deadbolt offers a simple yet effective way to increase the security of your home, combining solid construction, easy installation, and a range of security-enhancing features.

Key Features

1. Single-Cylinder Design:
   The Kwikset 660 is a single-cylinder deadbolt, meaning it can be locked or unlocked from the outside with a key and from the inside with a thumb turn. This design is one of the most commonly used types of deadbolts for residential doors, providing a good balance between ease of use and security.

2. Polished Brass Finish:
   The polished brass finish on the Kwikset 660 is a classic and timeless choice that brings a touch of elegance to your door hardware. The finish is durable and resistant to tarnishing, maintaining its bright, shiny appearance over time with minimal maintenance.

3. SmartKey Rekey Technology:
   One of the standout features of the Kwikset 660 is its SmartKey technology. This feature allows homeowners to rekey the lock without the need for a locksmith. You can rekey the lock in seconds with a special tool (included with the lock), which is especially convenient if you’ve lost your keys or want to restrict access to certain individuals. This rekeying functionality offers peace of mind, allowing you to control who has access to your home without having to replace the entire lock.

4. Pick-Resistant Mechanism:
   The Kwikset 660 incorporates a pick-resistant mechanism, which provides added security against break-ins. This feature helps protect your home from burglars who might attempt to use common lock-picking tools to bypass the deadbolt.

5. Durability and Construction:
   This lock is built with durability in mind. The solid brass construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The deadbolt itself is thick and sturdy, providing resistance against forced entry. The mechanism is designed to operate smoothly and consistently, even after years of use.

6. ANSI Grade 3 Rating:
   The Kwikset 660 is certified with an ANSI (American National Standards Institute) Grade 3 rating, which is the minimum security rating for residential locks. While this grade may not be the highest available, it offers a good level of protection for most homes, especially when paired with other security measures such as a reinforced door and a sturdy frame.

7. Easy Installation:
   Like most Kwikset products, the 660 deadbolt is designed for straightforward installation. It fits standard door preparations (2-1/8" bore) and comes with all necessary hardware. The installation process is relatively simple and can be completed by most homeowners in less than an hour, even without prior experience.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Kwikset 660 does a solid job in delivering on its core function: securing your door. The lock cylinder operates smoothly, and the thumb turn on the inside provides easy access when you need to exit the house quickly. The SmartKey rekeying technology is especially useful, as it allows for quick and easy rekeying if necessary, eliminating the need for expensive rekeying services.

The lock's pick-resistant features also add an extra layer of security, making it more difficult for burglars to bypass with standard tools. Though it is rated as ANSI Grade 3, it is still more than sufficient for typical residential needs. For areas with heightened security concerns, such as high-crime neighborhoods, homeowners might want to consider a higher-grade lock (Grade 1 or 2), but for the average home, this lock should provide adequate protection.

The polished brass finish is aesthetically pleasing and durable, maintaining its luster even with exposure to the elements. However, it’s worth noting that polished brass may require occasional cleaning to keep it looking pristine, as it can accumulate smudges and fingerprints more easily than other finishes like satin nickel or matte black.

Pros

• SmartKey Rekeying: The ability to rekey the lock yourself is a major benefit. It saves time and money compared to calling a locksmith each time you need to change the keys or restrict access.
• Pick-Resistant: Provides an extra layer of security against traditional break-in methods like lock picking.
• Ease of Installation: The lock is simple to install, making it a great option for DIY enthusiasts or anyone looking to upgrade their home security quickly.
• Classic Aesthetic: The polished brass finish offers a timeless look that complements most home exteriors.
• Affordable Security: While it may not be the highest-rated deadbolt on the market, the Kwikset 660 offers solid, reliable security at a relatively low price point.

Installation Process

The installation of the Kwikset 660 is straightforward, especially if you're replacing an old deadbolt. The lock comes with detailed instructions, and all the hardware you need for installation is included in the package. If you're installing the deadbolt for the first time, make sure your door meets the standard preparation specifications, as the lock requires a 2-1/8" hole and a backset of either 2-3/8" or 2-3/4". Most doors today come with this standard preparation, so installation should be quick and easy.

1. Install the exterior lock assembly and the interior thumb turn.
2. Insert the latch mechanism and secure it with screws.
3. Test the functionality of the lock, ensuring that it turns smoothly and securely locks.

If you need to rekey the lock, Kwikset provides easy-to-follow instructions for using the included SmartKey tool.

Price and Value

The Kwikset 660 is an affordable option for homeowners looking for a quality deadbolt lock without breaking the bank. It provides reliable security features, such as pick resistance and SmartKey rekeying, at a price point that’s competitive within its category. For homeowners on a budget or those who simply need a standard, reliable deadbolt, the Kwikset 660 offers great value for money.

Conclusion

Overall, the Kwikset 660 Deadbolt Lock, Polished Brass is a solid and affordable option for homeowners looking to secure their front entry door. Its SmartKey rekeying technology, pick-resistant design, and classic finish make it a well-rounded choice for those seeking a simple yet effective locking solution. While it might not be the most advanced deadbolt on the market, its reliable performance, ease of installation, and overall value make it a popular choice for residential security needs.

If you're looking for a basic deadbolt that provides solid protection, easy maintenance, and a touch of elegance, the Kwikset 660 should be at the top of your list. However, if you require higher security features or prefer a more advanced smart lock solution, you may want to consider other options.

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