BEST 45H Series Heavy Duty Mor...
IN STOCK (leaves warehouse same day if ordered before 3pm ET)
$586.00
$372.95

BEST 45H Series Heavy Duty Mortise Lock Body - Public Entrance Function with Field Reversible Operation

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Model: 45HCAC626
$586.00
$372.95
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In Stock (leaves warehouse same day if ordered before 3pm ET)

$586.00
$372.95
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BEST 45H Series Heavy Duty Mortise Lock Body - Public Entrance Function with Field Reversible Operation

Professional-Grade Mortise Lock Solution for Commercial Applications

The BEST 45H Series mortise lock body delivers heavy-duty performance for public entrance applications with field reversible operation. This lock body only configuration features a 2-3/4" backset, 1" deadbolt throw, and 3/4" latchbolt throw in a robust case measuring 5-7/8" H x 7/8" D x 4-1/16" W. Manufactured from 0.095" cold rolled steel with zinc dichromate plating for corrosion protection, this ANSI A156.13 Grade 1 Operation and Strength rated lock meets ANSI A117.1 accessibility standards.

Professional Features & Benefits

  • Heavy-Duty Steel Construction: 0.095" cold rolled steel case, cover, and armored front provide exceptional strength and durability for demanding commercial applications.
  • Field Reversible Design: Reversible latch rotates 180 degrees for easy handing change without opening the case, with four position hub toggle for flexible configuration.
  • Enhanced Security Features: Solid one-piece stainless steel anti-friction latch provides 50% more surface contact with strike for superior strength and security.
  • Precision Engineering: Roller bearing hub mechanism provides smooth, wear-resistant operation with enhanced cycle life and reduced strike wear.
  • Reinforced Construction: Armored front completely surrounds latch and deadbolt providing increased lateral strength with self-aligning installation capability.
  • Professional Grade Rating: ANSI A156.13 Series 1000, Grade 1 Operation and Strength, Grade 2 Security certification for commercial applications.
  • Accessibility Compliance: Meets ANSI A117.1 section 404.2.6 accessibility standards for universal design requirements.
  • Anti-Microbial Options: Available with UltraShield antimicrobial protected coating (626AM and 630AM finishes) for healthcare and high-cleanliness applications.

Technical Specifications

45H Series –The design and operation of the BEST® mortise lock meets the intent
of the standard for ANSI A117.1 section 404.2.6.
Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association:
45H Series –ANSI A156.13, Series 1000, Grade 1 Operation and Strength, Grade 2 Security. To meet Grade 1 Security, a drill resistant core
(1CD, 1CDP, 1CDF, or 1CDX) must be used with escutcheon trims, and 1EK7K4 high security cylinder must be used with sectional trims.
47H Series – ANSI A156.13, Series 1000, Grade 1 Operational, Strength, and Security

Auxiliary bolt – Stainless steel, non-handed.
Backset – 2-3/4"
Case –0.095” cold rolled steel, 5- 7/8" H x 7/8" D x 4-1/16" W. Steel is zinc dichromate plated for corrosion protection.
Deadbolt – Stainless steel, 1" throw.
Latchbolt –Solid stainless steel, 3/4" throw. Latch is oil-impregnated for anti-friction operation. Reversible without opening case.
Strike – For complete strike package spec’s see page 5.
Door Thickness – Standard lock configuration designed for doors 1-3/4" thick. Thick door configuration available for doors up to
5" thick (specify thickness when ordering).
Faceplate –Stainless steel, brass or bronze material, 8" H x 1-1/4" W x 1/16" T. Lock face automatically adjusts to proper bevel during
installation.
Products protected by one or more of the following patents: 4,873,853 5,590,555 5,794,472
Finishes –
• 605 - bright brass, clear coated
• 606 – satin brass, clear coated
• 611 – bright bronze, clear coated
• 612 – satin bronze, clear coated
• 613* – oxidized satin bronze, oil rubbed
• 618 – bright nickel plated, clear coated (brass base material)
• 619 – satin nickel plated, clear coated (brass base material)
• 622 – flat black coated (brass base material) 625 – brightchromium plated (brass base material)
• 626 – satin chromium plated (brass base material)
• 629 – bright stainless steel
• 630 – satin stainless steel
• 690* – dark bronze coated (brass base material)
*613 finish is designed to wear over time, providing an “antique” appearance.
*690 finish will continue as a dark brown appearance over time.
Antimicrobial Finish –
• 626AM – satin chrome plated with UltraShield™ antimicrobial protected coating
• 630AM – satin stainless steel with UltraShield™ antimicrobial protected coating
The BEST UltraShield finish inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microbes on the surface of the hardware.
NOTE: BEST UltraShieldTM option is recommended for use on any hardware application where product cleanliness is a high priority. i.e;.
Hospital/Healthcare, Elderly Care, Education, Transportation, Food-Service, Hospitality.

Installation & Operation

  1. Review manufacturer specifications and verify door preparation requirements including door thickness (standard 1-3/4" or up to 5" thick door configuration), stile width, and handing as applicable to this mortise lock body.
  2. Use manufacturer-provided templates to mark mounting hole locations accurately on door and frame surfaces for the 8" H x 1-1/4" W faceplate.
  3. Prepare door and frame by drilling required holes and routing as specified in manufacturer instructions for the 2-3/4" backset configuration.
  4. Install all mounting hardware and secure the lock body to door per manufacturer torque specifications using the four case cover screws and interlocking armored front design.
  5. Adjust operational components including the four position hub toggle for proper alignment, latching, and smooth operation of the 1" deadbolt throw and 3/4" latchbolt throw.
  6. Test lock body operation to verify proper function and make final adjustments as needed. Refer to manufacturer documentation for complete installation details and troubleshooting.

Professional Applications

  • Commercial Office Buildings
  • Educational Facilities
  • Healthcare Institutions
  • Retail Establishments
  • Industrial and Warehouse Facilities
  • Multi-Tenant Residential Properties
  • Government and Municipal Buildings

Why Choose BEST Quality?

BEST 45H Series mortise lock bodies deliver professional-grade reliability with 0.095" cold rolled steel construction and precision-engineered components rated for ANSI A156.13 Grade 1 performance standards. The solid one-piece stainless steel anti-friction latch and roller bearing hub mechanism provide enhanced durability and smooth operation. Engineered for demanding commercial applications where dependable security and accessibility compliance are essential.

Product Specs

Series:
45H
Standard Cylinder:
SFIC Prep Less Core
Duty Level:
Heavy Duty
Keyed Function:
Double Cylinder
Product Group:
Mechanical Locks
Product Subgroup:
Mortise Locks and Trim
Product Type:
Mortise Locks
Subcategory:
Mortise
Keyed:
Yes
Commercial/Residential:
Commercial
Lock Type:
Mortise
Lock Function:
Public Entrance
Product Attribute:
Mortise Locks
Electronic:
No
Product Function:
Public Entrance
Face Plate:
8" H x 1-1/4" W x 1/16" T
Product Category:
Mechanical Locks
Backset (Distance):
2-3/4"
Department:
Door Hardware

BEST 45HCAC626 – Frequently Asked Questions

1) What does the Public Entrance function do on a BEST 45H mortise lock?
Public Entrance is a double cylinder function on the 45H: a key is required on both sides to throw or retract the 1 inch deadbolt, and the latchbolt is operated by the levers or knobs. It is used on storefronts and main entrances where the opening gets deadlocked at closing and unlocked in the morning. Because it is double cylinder, check your local egress code before putting it on a required exit door.
2) Does the BEST 45HCAC mortise lock come with levers, trim, and a cylinder core?
No. This is a lock body only. You get the case, latch, deadbolt and armored front, and it is prepped for a BEST small format interchangeable core but ships less core. Levers or knobs, roses or escutcheons, and the SFIC core all have to be ordered separately to finish the opening.
3) Will a BEST 45H mortise lock fit a door thicker than 1-3/4 inches?
The standard 45H configuration is built for 1-3/4 inch doors. BEST does offer a thick door configuration for doors up to 5 inches, but the thickness has to be specified at time of order, so it is not something you can adjust in the field.
4) Do I have to specify handing on the BEST 45H, and can it be changed in the field?
Handing is a required selection (RH, LH, RHRB or LHRB), but the 45H latch is reversible in the field. The latch rotates 180 degrees without opening the case, and the hub has four positions, so a wrong-handed unit on site can be corrected rather than returned.
5) Will the BEST 45H latch into the strike I already have on the frame?
The 45H runs a 2-3/4 inch backset with a 3/4 inch latchbolt throw and a 1 inch deadbolt throw, which is the standard commercial mortise geometry. If the existing frame is cut for an ANSI mortise strike at that backset, the lock lines up. There is also an optional 7/8 inch lip to center strike if your frame or stop condition needs the longer lip.
6) Is the BEST 45H Grade 1, and what does it take to get Grade 1 security?
The 45H is certified to ANSI A156.13, Series 1000, Grade 1 Operation and Strength, Grade 2 Security. To reach Grade 1 Security you have to use a drill resistant core (1CD, 1CDP, 1CDF or 1CDX) with escutcheon trim, or a 1EK7K4 high security cylinder with sectional trim. If the spec on your drawing says Grade 1 security outright, step up to the 47H Series, which is Grade 1 for operational, strength and security.
7) I need a classroom function mortise lock instead of a public entrance one - what are my options?
The BEST 45H lock body covered here is a public entrance function. For classroom function in a mechanical Grade 1 mortise lock, the Cal-Royal NM8070 is rated Grade 1 for 1-3/4 inch doors, and the Corbin Russwin ML2003 is a Grade 1 classroom mortise lockset in the ML2000 Series for 1-3/4 inch doors.
8) Is the BEST 45H mortise lock body a complete lockset, or do I need something like the Cal-Royal NM8050 instead?
The BEST 45H is sold as a lock body only, so trim and a core are ordered separately; it is prepped for a small format interchangeable core, less core. The Cal-Royal NM8050 is supplied as a Grade 1 office/entrance mortise lockset with an auxiliary deadlatch for 1-3/4 inch doors, and the Accentra 8805FL comes with an Arcadia lever, so those arrive as complete assemblies rather than a bare case.
9) My opening needs keyless electronic access, not a keyed mortise lock body. What replaces the BEST 45H?
The BEST 45H is a mechanical, non-electronic keyed lock body. For electronic access on a mortise prep, the Alarm Lock DL3500CR is a Grade 1 classroom-function electronic mortise lock with 300 user codes for 1-5/8 to 1-7/8 inch doors, the Schlage CO-100 is a Grade 1 standalone electronic mortise lock with keypad reader in privacy function for 1-3/4 inch doors, and the TownSteel FME-2000 is a Grade 1 heavy duty classroom mortise lockset with RFID.
10) Will a Baldwin 6301 mortise lock body drop into the same door prep as the BEST 45H?
No. The BEST 45H lock body uses a 2-3/4 inch backset, while the Baldwin 6301 entry/apartment mortise lock body is a 2-1/2 inch backset design, offered knob by knob or as the 6301LS lever by lever, for doors 1-3/4 inch and over. Different backset means a different mortise pocket and faceplate location, so it is not a same-prep swap.
11) Can I use a Schlage PC10 in place of the BEST 45H mortise lock body?
No. The BEST 45H is a mortise lock type that requires a mortise pocket in the door edge. The Schlage PC10 is a Grade 1 passage cylindrical lock with rose for 1-3/4 inch doors, which uses a bored cylindrical prep, not a mortise pocket. For a mortise prep at Grade 1 passage function, the Schlage PM010 mortise passage latch is the like-for-like prep.
12) My spec calls for access control on the mortise lock - what do I order instead of the BEST 45H lock body?
The BEST 45H is a mechanical lock body with no electrical option. For an electrified mortise lock, the Command Access ML190 is a heavy-duty motorized mortise lock with field selectable EL/EU operation on 24VDC in storeroom function, and the Schlage L9092EU with 03A trim is a heavy duty corridor-function mortise lock with electric lock/unlock outside lever, keyed outside, request to exit, on 12/24VDC for 1-3/4 inch doors.
13) For a behavioral health or hospital opening, is the BEST 45H the right mortise lock or is there a ligature resistant alternative?
The BEST 45H is available with UltraShield antimicrobial coating in 626AM and 630AM for healthcare cleanliness, but it is a conventional lever/knob-trim lock body. Where ligature resistance is required, the TownSteel MRX-L-01 is a Grade 1 heavy duty anti-ligature lever mortise lockset in passage function, the MRX-A-01 is the satin stainless ligature resistant arch trim version, and the Marks USA 5PDN is a Grade 1 hospital passage mortise push/pull paddleset that is ligature resistant and ADA compliant in satin stainless steel.
14) My drawing calls for a fire rated mortise lock - which comparables state a fire rating next to the BEST 45H?
The BEST 45H is rated ANSI A156.13 Series 1000 Grade 1 for operation and strength and Grade 2 security, and meets ANSI A117.1 section 404.2.6 for accessibility. Where the submittal needs a stated fire rating, the Falcon MA101 Grade 1 heavy duty mortise passage lock carries a fire rating, and the Schlage Electronics LEMD-GRW Grade 1 ENGAGE wireless mortise lock lists a 3 hour rating.
15) What size pocket and faceplate cutout does the BEST 45H mortise lock need?
The case measures 5-7/8 x 7/8 x 4-1/16 inches, and the faceplate is 8 x 1-1/4 x 1/16 inches. Mortise the door to suit both. The lock face self-adjusts to the door bevel during installation, so you do not need a beveled face ordered to hand.
16) Which BEST 45H finish should I use in a hospital or long term care facility?
Two of the fifteen finishes carry the UltraShield antimicrobial coating: 626AM satin chrome and 630AM satin stainless. The coating inhibits growth of bacteria and other microbes on the hardware surface, and BEST recommends it for healthcare, elderly care, education, transportation, food service and hospitality. The other thirteen finishes run from 605 bright brass through 690 dark bronze with no antimicrobial coating.
17) Does the BEST 45H meet accessibility requirements for lever operation?
The design and operation of the 45H mortise lock meets the intent of ANSI A117.1 section 404.2.6. That is the operable-parts requirement, so it holds up on an accessible route provided you pair it with lever trim rather than a knob.
18) I need a Grade 1 mortise lock but not a double cylinder entrance function. What else is there?
Function drives the choice here. For a storeroom opening, the Accentra 8805FL and Cal-Royal NM8080 are Grade 1 storeroom mortise locksets. Classroom calls for the Corbin Russwin ML2003 or Cal-Royal NM8070. For office or entrance use with a latch and auxiliary deadlatch instead of a keyed deadbolt, look at the Cal-Royal NM8050. All three Cal-Royal units are listed for 1-3/4 inch doors, the same standard thickness the BEST 45H is built for.
19) Is the BEST 45H electronic, or can it be made access-control ready?
The 45H is a mechanical lock body with no electronics. If the opening needs credential or keypad access, that is a different product: the TownSteel FME-2000 is a Grade 1 RFID classroom mortise lockset, the Schlage CO-100 is a standalone keypad mortise lock, and the Command Access ML190 is a motorized mortise lock with field selectable fail safe or fail secure on 24VDC.
20) Which other 2-3/4 inch backset mortise locks match the BEST 45H backset?
The BEST 45H lock body is a 2-3/4 inch backset. Among other mortise products at that same backset, Hager's 3800 Series includes the 3810S passage with rose and 3810E passage with escutcheon for 1-3/4 to 2-1/2 inch doors, the 3840S privacy for 1-3/4 to 2 inch doors, and the 3850E non-keyed office function with lever and escutcheon; the Sargent 4874 is a double cylinder mortise deadbolt at a 2-3/4 inch backset.
21) I do not need the door keyed at all - what is the simpler mortise option next to the BEST 45H?
The BEST 45H is a keyed public entrance lock body. Where no key is needed, the Schlage PM010 is a Grade 1 non-keyed passage latch mortise lock for 1-3/4 inch doors, the Falcon MA101 is a Grade 1 heavy duty mortise passage lock with field reversible operation and a fire rating, and the Hager 3850E is a non-keyed office function mortise lock with lever and escutcheon.
22) The BEST 45H is field reversible - which comparable mortise locks are also non-handed or reversible?
The BEST 45H latch rotates 180 degrees for handing change without opening the case, and it has a four position hub toggle. The Falcon MA101 Grade 1 heavy duty mortise passage lock is also field reversible, and the Kaba Ilco 185 Series mortise deadbolt is supplied with no handing. By contrast, the Baldwin 6310190RRLS is specified as a right hand reverse unit, and the Schlage LEMD-GRW wireless mortise lock is a right hand build.
23) What looks like a substitute for the BEST 45H mortise lock but will not actually secure the door?
Several mortise-family items are trim or non-latching parts. The Schlage L0170 is a half dummy trim in the L Series with a dummy function, and the Emtek 3019 Brisbane, 3102 Memphis, 3104 Hamilton and 3106 Manhattan mortise entrance locksets are dummy function. The Sargent 130KB and 130W are mortise thumbturns. None of these give you the keyed public entrance operation, 1 inch deadbolt throw and 3/4 inch latchbolt throw of the BEST 45H lock body.
24) The BEST 45H goes on 1-3/4 inch doors up to 5 inch thick - which mortise alternatives fit thinner doors?
The standard BEST 45H configuration is for 1-3/4 inch doors, with a thick door configuration up to 5 inch when specified. For thinner openings, the Baldwin 6310 entry/storeroom mortise lock body covers 1-3/8 inch and over, the Alarm Lock DL2700CR classroom electronic mortise lock covers 1-5/8 to 1-7/8 inch, and the Marks USA 21AC and 22AC ornamental iron mortise locks are built for 1 inch doors.
25) I only need a deadbolt on this mortise prep, not the BEST 45H latch-and-deadbolt lock body. What should I use?
The BEST 45H combines a 3/4 inch latchbolt and a 1 inch deadbolt in one case. If the opening only needs a bolt, the Sargent 4874 is a double cylinder mortise deadbolt with a 2-3/4 inch backset matching the 45H backset, and the Kaba Ilco 185 Series is a no-handing mortise deadbolt. For a keypad deadbolt, the Alarm Lock DL4500 is a Grade 1 electronic mortise deadbolt with 2,000 user codes and privacy keypad for 1-5/8 to 1-7/8 inch doors.
26) Which mortise lock should I use for a dormitory or corridor opening rather than the BEST 45H public entrance lock?
The BEST 45H is a public entrance function with double cylinder keying. For corridor/dormitory duty, the Sargent 7925 is a Grade 1 heavy duty dormitory exit function mortise lock in the 7900 Series with rose trim and a single cylinder deadbolt, and the Schlage L9092EU with 03A trim is a heavy duty corridor function mortise lock for 1-3/4 inch doors.
27) The BEST 45H takes a small format interchangeable core - which comparable mortise locks also offer interchangeable core or cylinder override?
The BEST 45H lock body ships with SFIC prep, less core, so you supply the core. The Cal-Royal NM8080 Grade 1 storeroom mortise lockset is offered with an interchangeable core option, and the Accentra NTM623-NR nexTouch Generation 3 mortise lock uses a capacitive touchscreen keypad with cylinder override, no deadbolt.
28) For a privacy bathroom door, what mortise lock replaces the BEST 45H?
The BEST 45H is keyed public entrance function and is not a privacy set. For privacy, the Cal-Royal NM8440 is a Grade 1 privacy mortise lockset with deadbolt for 1-3/4 inch doors, and the Hager 3840S is a Grade 1 privacy mortise lock with a 2-3/4 inch backset for 1-3/4 to 2 inch doors, matching the 45H backset.
29) Are the Dormakaba E-Plex mortise locks a direct swap for the BEST 45H lock body?
No. The BEST 45H is a mechanical keyed lock body with SFIC prep and no electronics. The Dormakaba E-Plex E5086 is a Grade 1 entry/egress electronic pushbutton and card lock in a back to back mortise configuration, the E-Plex 2066 is an electronic pushbutton keyless mortise lock built for wide stile, and the PowerPlex P2066 is a separate mortise lock series. Those require credential programming and their own prep, so treat them as an access control decision rather than a like-for-like body change.
30) How durable is the BEST 45H for a high traffic entrance?
Built for commercial heavy duty service. The case, cover and armored front are 0.095 inch cold rolled steel, zinc dichromate plated against corrosion. The latchbolt is solid one-piece stainless with an anti-friction oil-impregnated surface that gives 50 percent more contact area with the strike, and the hub runs on roller bearings to cut wear on both the lock and the strike.
31) Can I get tamper resistant screws with the BEST 45H mortise lock?
Yes, security head screws are a selectable option on the 45H, along with the 7/8 inch lip to center strike. Both are chosen when the lock is ordered, so decide before the order goes in if the opening is in a detention, transit or otherwise exposed location.
How fast can I get the BEST 45HCAC626 delivered?
Most orders ship the same day from our distribution partners, with quick delivery throughout the continental U.S. Need it urgently? Contact Us for expedited shipping options.
Can I return it if it doesn’t work for me?
Yes—ZenSupply offers a hassle-free return policy. If the product isn’t the right fit, reach out to our support team for a return authorization or setup a return by following our return instructions.
Does the BEST 45HCAC626 come with a warranty?
Absolutely. The BEST 45HCAC626 is backed by a manufacturer’s warranty. For full warranty terms, check the product documentation or Contact Us.
How do I get technical support or installation help for the BEST 45HCAC626?
You can call, text, or email our expert support team for fast answers. We’re here to help with product selection, installation tips, and troubleshooting. Contact Us
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