Think of a good deadbolt for an outswing exterior door like a seatbelt designed for racing—not just any belt will do. The right lock has to deal with someone possibly prying on the exposed hinges, as well as withstand brute force from the outside. Some brands (like Schlage, Medeco, and Mul-T-Lock) really lean into this, offering high-security options that give your door a fighting chance. Let’s walk through what makes a deadbolt “the best” for outswing exterior doors, plus what features you—yes, even as a total beginner—absolutely need to look for.
Why Outswing Exterior Doors Need Special Deadbolts
Honestly, outswing doors need extra love when it comes to locks. Unlike most front doors in the U.S. (which swing in), outswing doors open outwards. This means the hinges are on the outside—right in plain sight. Now, most modern outswing doors use security hinges (with non-removable pins), but the lock itself still needs to protect against someone trying to pry the door open from the outside.
Another thing: outswing doors press INTO the frame when closed, which seems perfect. But if the deadbolt isn’t long enough, or if it’s not reinforced, a crowbar can sometimes pop the latch even with the door pushed tight against the frame. That’s where your deadbolt becomes the star player. You want a lock with a strong throw (that metal bar that sticks out), deep enough to get well into the strike plate, plus extra features that resist attacks like lock picking, bumping, or drilling.
Here’s the thing—many locks are “one-size-fits-all,” but for outswing doors, you need to double-check that the bolts are long enough and that the hardware is rated for exterior use. Don’t cut corners: if you have an outswing door, a budget deadbolt from the nearest big-box store just won’t give you peace of mind.
Top Security Features: What to Look For in a Deadbolt
Let me explain what separates a solid deadbolt from a flimsy one, especially for outswing exterior doors. When you’re shopping, keep an eye out for these features:
- Full 1-inch throw bolt: The bolt—the part that shoots into the frame—should be at least one inch long. Anything shorter is asking for trouble, since prying attacks can pop short bolts with surprising ease.
- Reinforced strike plate: This is the metal plate on the frame where the bolt sits. For outswing doors, opt for a heavy-duty plate secured with 3-inch screws that anchor straight into the wall stud, not just the door frame.
- High-security cylinder: Pick and bump resistance matter a lot. Brands like Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, and Schlage offer cylinders designed to make picking or forced entry nearly impossible for a would-be thief.
- Anti-saw, anti-drill features: Some deadbolts have steel pins or plates inside the bolt, so even if someone tries to saw or drill through it, they’ll have a tough time.
- Solid construction: Look for deadbolts made of solid metal (brass or hardened steel). Avoid anything that feels light or hollow.
You might be wondering: do smart locks or keypad deadbolts work for outswing doors? Yes, but make sure they’re rated for exterior use and have similar physical security features. Don’t let the convenience of code access come at the cost of security.
The Best Deadbolt Brands for Outswing Doors
You’ve probably seen Schlage and Kwikset at the hardware store, but for outswing exterior doors, a few brands really stand out:
- Schlage: Their B60 and B62 deadbolts are favorites for a reason. They’re known for their hefty bolt throw, great build quality, and affordable price. The B62 model is a double cylinder (keyed on both sides)—useful if you have glass nearby.
- Medeco: This brand is a gold standard in “high security.” Medeco deadbolts use specially shaped pins and keys that are almost impossible to copy, and their locks are a nightmare for lock pickers.
- Mul-T-Lock: If you want true peace of mind, Mul-T-Lock deadbolts are heavy, solid, and almost overbuilt. They’re pricier but seriously tough to bypass.
- Yale, Baldwin, and Emtek: These brands also make premium deadbolts with strong security features, but for most people, Schlage, Medeco, or Mul-T-Lock offer the best mix of price, function, and reputation.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Brand | Best For | Key Features | Price Range |
| Schlage | Affordable, reliable security | 1-inch throw, reinforced plate, pick-resistant | $$ |
| Medeco | High-security needs | Unique keys, anti-pick, anti-drill | $$$ |
| Mul-T-Lock | Top-tier security | Hardened steel, complex keys, anti-saw/anti-bump | $$$$ |
Pick what matches your needs and your budget, but be honest—saving $30 now isn’t worth the risk later.
Deadbolt Installation Tips for Outswing Doors
Swapping out or installing a deadbolt on an outswing exterior door isn’t rocket science, but you’ll want to get it right. Outswing doors can sometimes have slightly different frame geometry, so patience is key.
- Positioning matters: The deadbolt should sit at least 6–12 inches above your doorknob. If you’re drilling new holes, use a template to avoid “eyeballing” it.
- Strike plate reinforcement: Use those super-long 3-inch screws. They might seem overkill, but they anchor the strike plate into the wall stud, turning it into a real security feature, not just a decorative trim.
- Weatherproof everything: If you’re installing on an exterior door, make sure any exposed lock cylinder is rated for outdoor use. Add weatherstripping or a lock cover if your door is exposed to wind, rain, or salt air.
- Test before you finish: Before tightening everything down, make sure the bolt shoots smoothly into the strike plate and the door closes flush. Outswing doors can shift a bit, especially with weather changes, so double-check alignment.
If you’re not confident with DIY, a locksmith can install a high-security deadbolt for you in under an hour. Sometimes, paying for a pro is worth every penny—especially if you want code, sync, or battery-powered features (like with smart deadbolts).
Should You Consider Double Cylinder Deadbolts?
Here’s a debate that comes up: single vs. double cylinder. A single cylinder deadbolt uses a key on the outside and a thumb turn on the inside, while a double cylinder uses a key on *both* sides.
For outswing exterior doors with glass panels nearby, a double cylinder deadbolt can stop someone from breaking the glass, reaching in, and simply unlocking the door. That’s why commercial buildings and hurricane-prone homes often use them on outswing doors.
But there’s a catch—double cylinder deadbolts can be a fire hazard if you don’t keep a key nearby. Emergency exits matter! If you go this route, make sure everyone in your house knows where the key is, and never lock it in place in a way that could block a fast escape.
Most people end up choosing single cylinder models for convenience and safety, but double cylinders are worth considering if your door has windows or is in a vulnerable spot.
Can You Use a Smart Deadbolt On an Outswing Exterior Door?
The short answer: yes, but you’ll want to be picky. Smart locks have come a long way, but some aren’t built for the outdoor elements, and not all are tough enough for outswing doors.
Look for smart deadbolts with:
- Physical strength: They should have the same 1-inch bolt and solid metal construction as a regular deadbolt.
- Weather resistance: Check the IP rating, especially if your door is exposed.
- Key backup: If the code, battery, or sync functions fail, you’ll need a key to get inside—especially if it’s your only entry point.
- Secure code management: Make sure you can reset codes easily, and audit who has access.
Schlage (with the Encode and Sense series) and Yale smart deadbolts are popular, and there are models that fit outswing doors just fine. Just don’t skimp on physical security for digital convenience. If you’re not techy, a standard high-security manual deadbolt is still your safest bet.
Common Mistakes People Make With Outswing Door Locks
You might be wondering, “What could go wrong?” Quite a bit, actually—people often overlook the little details that end up making a big difference.
- Ignoring the hinges: Even the best deadbolt won’t help if someone can pop your hinges out. Always use security hinges with non-removable pins on an outswing door.
- Short screws: This one’s huge. If your strike plate is held in with 1-inch screws, you’re not really anchored into anything sturdy. Use 3-inch screws, always.
- Low-grade hardware: A deadbolt is only as strong as its weakest part. Cheap locks are easy to pick, pry, or break.
- Poor alignment: If your door doesn’t close flush, or the bolt doesn’t extend fully into the strike plate, you’ve lost most of your protection.
Here’s a tip: If you move into a new place, always replace or upgrade exterior locks, especially on outswing doors. You can’t know for sure who had a key before you, and older hardware might be hiding bigger problems.
Outswing Door Deadbolts vs. Other Security Options
Deadbolts aren’t the only way to protect an outswing exterior door, but they’re the foundation. Some folks layer up with additional hardware:
- Security bars or jamb braces: These reinforce the door against prying and kicking. They’re overkill for most homes but popular on remote cabins or hurricane-prone areas.
- Strike shields: These install over or around your door’s edge to make prying attacks much harder.
- Smart monitoring: Door and window sensors, cameras, or alarms add extra peace of mind. You can sync these with some smart deadbolts for notifications if someone tampers with your lock.
But here’s the bottom line: if the deadbolt is cheap or poorly installed, everything else is just window dressing. Start with the best deadbolt for your outswing door, and layer on other features as needed.
No matter how high-tech your locks are, physical strength and proper installation are still your best defense.
Closing Thoughts: Picking the Right Deadbolt for Your Outswing Door
Securing an outswing exterior door isn’t just about keeping strangers out—it’s about giving yourself real peace of mind. The best deadbolt options for outswing doors combine solid metal parts, deep-bite bolts, and thoughtful features that make forced entry a headache for even determined intruders. Don’t rush your pick: consider your door’s design, the location (and weather!), and whether you want classic or smart features. Brands like Schlage, Medeco, and Mul-T-Lock have proven themselves for years.
In the end, a great deadbolt is an investment in your home’s security that you’ll rarely think about—except in those rare moments when it really matters. Take the time to install it right, add a few extra screws, and rest easier knowing your door is ready for just about anything.
