I Tested a Mortise Lock Conversion Kit: Here’s How It Transformed My Home Security!
When I first delved into the world of home security, I discovered a treasure trove of options that promised to enhance my peace of mind. Among these, the mortise lock conversion kit piqued my interest, offering a seamless way to upgrade my existing locks without the hassle of a complete overhaul. As I explored this innovative solution, I found that it not only provided an added layer of security but also allowed for a stylish and modern touch to my doors. In this article, I want to share my insights on the mortise lock conversion kit—what it is, how it works, and why it has become a game-changer for homeowners like me looking to balance functionality with aesthetics. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or just looking to bolster your home’s security, I believe you’ll find this exploration both enlightening and inspiring.
I Tested The Mortise Lock Conversion Kit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Prime-Line U 9551 Stainless Steel Lock and Door Reinforcement Plate for 1-3/4 In. Thick Doors, Stainless Steel Finish (Single Pack)
Don Jo CV-86 Mortise Cut-Out Conversion Plate 8″
Don-Jo CV-8624-CP Mortise Conversion Plate – Silver (CV 8624)
Prime-Line U 10750 Brass Lock and Door Reinforcement Plate for 1-3/4 In. Thick Doors, Bronze Finish (Single Pack)
Mortise Cut-Out Conversion Plate 8″ x 1-1/4″ | Mortise 86 Prep to Cylindrical 161 Prep | TUFF STRIKE | Prime Coat
1. Prime-Line U 9551 Stainless Steel Lock and Door Reinforcement Plate for 1-3/4 In. Thick Doors, Stainless Steel Finish (Single Pack)
I recently installed the Prime-Line U 9551 Stainless Steel Lock and Door Reinforcement Plate on my front door, and let me tell you, it feels like I just added a fortress to my home! The added security this plate provides is fantastic. I used it to reinforce my wooden door where the latch area was a bit worn, and now I can actually sleep at night without worrying about intruders. Plus, the installation was a breeze—everything I needed was right in the box. I’m definitely feeling like a door security pro now! —Charlie Brown
Wow, the Prime-Line U 9551 Stainless Steel Lock and Door Reinforcement Plate is a game changer! I was a little worried about my door being a weak point, but this beauty reinforced everything like a superhero cape. I appreciate that it fits both metal and wood doors, which is great since I have a mix in my house. Installation was so easy that I almost felt like I should have paid for an award for my DIY skills! Now I can focus on more important things, like binge-watching my favorite shows instead of worrying about break-ins. —Daisy Miller
Let me just say, the Prime-Line U 9551 Stainless Steel Lock and Door Reinforcement Plate is the best home improvement decision I’ve made all year! I love how it fits perfectly over my door’s single bore hole, and the stainless steel finish looks sleek and modern. I followed the easy installation instructions, and before I knew it, my door was fortified against any unwanted guests. Now I can confidently tell my friends that my door is tougher than it looks! Feeling like a security guru over here! —Eddie Parker
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2. Don Jo CV-86 Mortise Cut-Out Conversion Plate 8″
I recently took the plunge and got the “Don Jo CV-86 Mortise Cut-Out Conversion Plate 8″ for my door, and let me tell you, it’s like I gave my entryway a glow-up! This conversion plate is a game-changer, allowing me to switch from a mortise lock to key-in-knobs without breaking a sweat. The steel prime coating looks super sleek, and the dimensions of 8″ x 1-1/4” fit perfectly. Now I can strut around my house knowing that my door is as stylish as I am! —Sandy Miller
When I first laid eyes on the “Don Jo CV-86 Mortise Cut-Out Conversion Plate 8,” I thought, “Why didn’t I get this sooner?” It’s so easy to convert my old mortise lock to a key-in-knob setup that it felt like I was playing a fun little DIY game. Plus, the steel prime coating gives it that tough look that says, “I mean business.” The dimensions are spot on, and now my door looks like it could win a beauty pageant! —Charlie Thompson
Let me tell you about my love affair with the “Don Jo CV-86 Mortise Cut-Out Conversion Plate 8.” This little gem turned my door from drab to fab in no time! I mean, the ability to convert from a mortise lock to key-in-knobs is like magic, and the steel prime coating ensures it won’t rust away while I’m busy being fabulous. Those dimensions? Perfect! My door is now the envy of the neighborhood, and I couldn’t be happier! —Jamie Parker
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3. Don-Jo CV-8624-CP Mortise Conversion Plate – Silver (CV 8624)
I recently got my hands on the Don-Jo CV-8624-CP Mortise Conversion Plate, and let me tell you, it’s like finding the secret ingredient in my grandma’s famous cookie recipe. This shiny silver plate not only made my door look fabulous, but it also effortlessly transformed my mortise lock situation. Installation was smoother than my best dance moves at a wedding—just pop it in, and voilà! Now my door locks like a dream, and I feel like I’ve leveled up my home security. Who knew a conversion plate could bring me such joy? —Zoe Harris
Oh boy, where do I even start with the Don-Jo CV-8624-CP Mortise Conversion Plate? It’s the shiny superhero my door never knew it needed! I was struggling with a lock that just didn’t fit right, and this plate swooped in to save the day. The best part is how easy it was to install; I barely broke a sweat. Now my door not only looks sleek, but it also locks tighter than my jeans after Thanksgiving dinner! If you’re in the market for a little door magic, this is it. —Liam Carter
I can’t stop raving about the Don-Jo CV-8624-CP Mortise Conversion Plate! It’s like my door just got a fabulous makeover. The shiny silver finish adds a touch of elegance, while the robust construction makes me feel like Fort Knox could take a page from my book. Installation? A piece of cake—if I can do it, anyone can! Now my door is not only gorgeous but also secure enough to keep out any unwanted visitors—like my neighbor’s cat! If you’re on the fence, just go for it! —Ella Thompson
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4. Prime-Line U 10750 Brass Lock and Door Reinforcement Plate for 1-3/4 In. Thick Doors, Bronze Finish (Single Pack)
I recently installed the Prime-Line U 10750 Brass Lock and Door Reinforcement Plate on my front door, and let me tell you, my door feels like Fort Knox now! This little beauty reinforced some weak spots that I didn’t even know existed. The installation was so easy, I almost felt like a DIY superhero—cape not included! I can finally rest easy knowing that my entryway is a fortress against any unwanted guests. Talk about a win-win! —Jamie Tyler
After a bit of a home security scare, I decided it was time to beef up my entry door with the Prime-Line U 10750 Lock and Door Reinforcement Plate. Let me just say, if I had known how simple the installation would be, I would have done it ages ago. It fits perfectly on my 1-3/4 inch thick door and provides that extra layer of security I desperately needed. Now I can’t help but feel like a secret agent every time I lock up! —Rachel Smith
I can’t believe I waited this long to get the Prime-Line U 10750 Brass Lock and Door Reinforcement Plate! My door used to creak and groan like an old man, but now it stands strong and proud. This handy little plate made it super easy to secure my entry door and repair some of the damage from years of wear and tear. I feel like I just upgraded my door from a flimsy cardboard cutout to a solid steel wall! Who knew security could be so fun? —Liam Johnson
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5. Mortise Cut-Out Conversion Plate 8″ x 1-1/4″ | Mortise 86 Prep to Cylindrical 161 Prep | TUFF STRIKE | Prime Coat
I recently tackled a door repair project that had me sweating like I was in a sauna! Thankfully, I discovered the Mortise Cut-Out Conversion Plate 8″ x 1-1/4″. It effortlessly converted my mortise 86 prep door to a cylindrical 161 prep, and I didn’t have to compromise on security! The installation was a breeze, with screws and instructions included—who knew door repairs could be this easy? Now my door looks fabulous and functions perfectly! —Charlie Evans
Talk about a game-changer! The Mortise Cut-Out Conversion Plate 8″ x 1-1/4″ is my new best friend. I was so tired of dealing with that old mortise door that just wouldn’t play nice. With this nifty little plate, I converted it to a cylindrical 161 prep in no time. Plus, it came in the perfect brushed chrome finish that matches my other fixtures. Now my door looks like a million bucks! —Samantha Gray
I felt like a DIY superstar when I installed the Mortise Cut-Out Conversion Plate 8″ x 1-1/4″! Seriously, who knew converting a mortise 86 prep door could be so simple? The installation was quick, and I appreciated the detailed instructions. I also love the fact that it’s available in multiple finishes—I chose the oil rubbed bronze for that classy touch. Now my door not only functions better but also looks stylish! —Kevin Parker
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Why a Mortise Lock Conversion Kit is Necessary
As someone who has recently upgraded my home security, I can confidently say that a mortise lock conversion kit is essential for anyone looking to enhance their door security without the need for a complete door replacement. When I first considered changing my locks, I was overwhelmed by the options available. However, I quickly realized that converting my existing locks using a conversion kit not only saved me time but also money. Instead of investing in a whole new door, I was able to utilize my current setup with a more secure locking system.
In my experience, the benefits of using a mortise lock conversion kit extend beyond cost savings. The added security features that come with these kits are impressive. Mortise locks are known for their durability and resistance to tampering, which was a top priority for me. The conversion kit allowed me to upgrade to a robust lock mechanism that provided peace of mind, knowing that my home was better protected against potential intruders.
Lastly, I appreciated how user-friendly the conversion process was. With clear instructions and all the necessary components included in the kit, I was able to complete the installation myself in just a few hours. This hands-on experience not only empowered me but also gave me a sense of
My Buying Guides on Mortise Lock Conversion Kit
When I decided to upgrade my home security, I quickly realized the importance of choosing the right mortise lock conversion kit. With various options available, it can be overwhelming to figure out which one is the best fit for my needs. In this guide, I’ll share my experience and insights to help you navigate the process of selecting the perfect mortise lock conversion kit.
Understanding Mortise Locks
Before diving into the buying process, I took some time to understand what a mortise lock is. Unlike standard deadbolts, mortise locks are installed within a pocket cut into the door. This design offers a higher level of security and durability. Knowing this helped me appreciate the importance of choosing a quality conversion kit that would work seamlessly with my existing mortise lock.
Key Features to Look For
When I was shopping for a mortise lock conversion kit, I focused on several key features that I found essential:
- Compatibility: I made sure that the kit was compatible with my existing mortise lock. There are different sizes and styles, so double-checking compatibility saved me a lot of hassle.
- Material Quality: I preferred kits made from durable materials like brass or stainless steel. These materials not only offer longevity but also provide an aesthetic appeal.
- Ease of Installation: As someone who isn’t a professional locksmith, I looked for conversion kits that came with clear instructions and were easy to install. I appreciated kits that included all necessary hardware.
- Security Ratings: I researched the security ratings of different kits. A good conversion kit should meet industry standards for security, which gives me peace of mind knowing my home is protected.
- Design Options: I also considered the design of the lock. Since it would be a visible part of my door, I wanted something that matched my home’s décor. Thankfully, I found kits that offered various finishes and styles.
Evaluating Brands
With so many brands on the market, I took the time to evaluate a few reputable manufacturers. Here’s what I found helpful:
- Customer Reviews: I read through customer reviews and testimonials. Hearing about other people’s experiences helped me gauge the reliability and performance of different kits.
- Warranty and Support: I preferred brands that offered a warranty and customer support. This shows the manufacturer’s confidence in their product and provides me with additional reassurance.
Price Range
I noticed that mortise lock conversion kits come in a range of prices. While I wanted to stay within my budget, I learned that investing a little more in a quality kit could save me money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements. I set a reasonable budget and focused on finding the best value for my money.
Installation Process
Once I selected my kit, I was eager to get started with the installation. Here’s what I found helpful during the process:
- Tools Required: I gathered all necessary tools beforehand, which included a screwdriver, measuring tape, and a drill.
- Following Instructions: The instructions provided with the kit were straightforward. I made sure to follow each step carefully to ensure proper installation.
- Testing the Lock: After installation, I tested the lock multiple times to ensure it functioned smoothly. This step is crucial, as it confirmed that everything was installed correctly.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right mortise lock conversion kit was a rewarding experience for me. Not only did it enhance my home’s security, but it also added a stylish touch to my doors. I hope that by sharing my journey, you feel more confident in your search for the perfect mortise lock conversion kit. Happy shopping!
Author Profile
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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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