
Shopping for the *right* strike plate, especially for outswing doors, can feel confusing. You’ll run across terms like “reinforced,” “security grade,” “universal fit,” or specific brands like Schlage, Defender Security, and Prime-Line. Here’s the thing: not all strike plates are created equal, and using the wrong type or size can leave your door vulnerable—even if you’ve spent good money on the lock itself.
Let me walk you through what makes the best deadbolt strike plates for outswing exterior doors, why they matter, and how to pick one that actually keeps your home safe.
Why Outswing Doors Need Special Strike Plates
Here’s a detail you don’t want to overlook: outswing doors are built differently from the more common inswing types. Instead of opening inward, they swing out, which means the hinges and the way the door sits against the frame are reversed. This has a real impact on the kind of strike plate you need.
With outswing doors, the doorframe offers more natural resistance to forced entry from the outside. That sounds great, but there’s a flip side. Because the door opens outward, it’s more exposed to tools that could pry it open or manipulate the lock hardware. A flimsy, thin, or badly installed strike plate is a weak point—a bit like a chain’s weakest link.
You might be wondering, “Can’t I just use any old strike plate?” Not really. Strike plates designed for inswing doors may not allow the deadbolt to fully extend or seat securely. In the worst-case scenario, the bolt might not even line up with the plate, leaving your lock only partially engaged. That’s exactly what a burglar hopes for.
So, when it comes to outswing doors, you want a strike plate that’s beefy, reinforced, and matches your door’s unique swing and hardware. Brands like Schlage and Prime-Line offer strike plates made just for these setups. It’s a little extra detail that pays off every single time you lock your door at night.
What Makes a Strike Plate “The Best” for Outswing Exterior Doors?
*Honestly, not all strike plates are up for the job.* Here’s what sets the best options apart when you’re dealing with outswing exterior doors:
- Reinforced Metal Construction: The top choices are made from thick, high-grade steel or solid brass. Thin plates will bend or tear away under force, which defeats the purpose of having a deadbolt.
- Long Mounting Screws: Look for plates that use screws at least 3 inches long. Short screws only anchor to the doorjamb trim, which is easy to break. Longer screws dig deep into the wall studs, making forced entry much tougher.
- Oversized Faceplate: Bigger strike plates distribute force more effectively. Some even have multiple screw holes for extra holding power—like the Defender Security or Schlage Security Strike models.
- Bolt Box or Reinforced Pocket: Some strike plates come with a bolt box (a metal cup or sleeve that goes inside the frame). This lets the deadbolt extend fully and stay protected from prying.
Let me explain with a quick story: I’ve seen older outswing doors where the “strike plate” was just a thin rectangle of metal with tiny screws. One good kick and the whole thing popped out, deadbolt and all. Upgrading to a heavy-duty strike plate with long screws completely changed the game. The door went from feeling flimsy to downright solid—exactly what you want on an exterior entry.
Top-Rated Strike Plate Brands for Outswing Doors
You’ll see plenty of strike plates on the hardware store wall, but a few brands consistently get high marks for outswing exterior doors. Here’s what makes these stand out:
- Schlage: Known for legendary durability, Schlage’s heavy-duty security strike plates are often used by professionals. Their 3-inch screws and multi-hole designs mean the plate stays anchored, no matter what. The Schlage 70-103 Strike Plate is a go-to for many outswing setups.
- Defender Security: This brand makes reinforced and universal strike plates that work for various lock types. Many come with a built-in bolt box and extra-long screws, perfect for boosting the security of doors that swing outward.
- Prime-Line: If you have a unique or older door, Prime-Line has a range of strike plates in different shapes and sizes. Their adjustable models are great for tricky installations, and their solid steel construction holds up against force and weather.
You might be asking, “Do I have to stick with the same brand as my deadbolt?” Not always, but matching the strike plate to the lock set (or at least the bolt size and shape) usually gets the best fit. And no matter what, don’t settle for the cheap, thin plates that sometimes come in deadbolt kits—they’re more for show than real security.
How to Install a Strike Plate on an Outswing Exterior Door
Installing a new strike plate can feel intimidating if you’ve never done it, but it’s surprisingly doable with basic tools. Here’s a step-by-step approach to get it right:
- Remove the Old Plate: Unscrew and take off the strike plate. Don’t be surprised if it’s tiny or only held in by short screws—this is common.
- Check the Bolt Alignment: Close the door and see where the deadbolt hits the frame. Mark this spot for the new plate. Some outswing doors may need you to adjust the cutout so the bolt fully extends into the plate.
- Fit the New Plate: Hold the new strike plate in place. If it doesn’t fit neatly, trace around it and carefully chisel the doorjamb until the plate sits flush with the wood. Take your time—it doesn’t have to be perfect, just snug.
- Drill for Longer Screws: Pre-drill holes for the long screws that come with reinforced plates. This helps prevent splitting the wood and gets the screws deep into the framing.
- Secure Everything: Screw the plate in tight. Test the deadbolt several times to make sure it slides smoothly into the bolt box or pocket. Adjust as needed for a perfect fit.
Here’s a tip: If your deadbolt keeps sticking or doesn’t line up with the new plate, try adjusting the hinges or sanding the door edge a bit. Outswing doors can shift over time, especially in old houses.
Common Problems With Outswing Door Strike Plates—And How To Fix Them
Troubleshooting strike plates on outswing doors is often about small adjustments—but they matter. Here are some typical headaches and how to solve them:
- The Deadbolt Won’t Fully Extend: If your bolt only goes partway into the strike plate, the cutout in the frame is probably too shallow. Remove the plate and enlarge the mortise so the bolt can move its full length.
- Door Won’t Stay Locked: Sometimes the bolt slips out of the plate, especially after slamming the door. This usually means the plate isn’t lined up with the bolt. Loosen the screws, shift the plate up or down, and try again.
- Short Screws Keep Loosening: If you notice wiggling, replace the factory screws with 3-inch wood screws. This trick is simple but seriously increases holding power.
- Weatherstripping Interference: Outswing exterior doors often have weatherstripping, which can get in the way of bigger strike plates. If this happens, trim or reposition the weatherstripping instead of skipping the plate upgrade. Security comes first!
Don’t ignore small problems. Over time, a misaligned or loose strike plate becomes an easy target for anyone trying to break in. Staying on top of these fixes keeps your outswing door secure and working the way it should.
Are Universal Strike Plates Good For Outswing Doors?
You might hear about universal strike plates that promise to fit any lock and any door. They sound appealing, especially if your setup is unusual. But do they actually work for outswing exterior doors?
Here’s the honest answer: Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Universal strike plates are designed to cover a range of bolt and doorframe sizes, and many are adjustable. They can be a lifesaver if you have an older or custom door where standard plates don’t fit. Brands like Prime-Line offer adjustable models that work for both inswing and outswing doors, provided you install them correctly.
However, some universal plates sacrifice thickness or reinforcement to stay “one size fits all.” For outswing exterior doors—where forced entry is a real risk—a heavy-duty, reinforced strike plate usually wins out. If the universal plate is made from thick, solid metal and comes with long screws, you’re probably in good shape. Otherwise, you might be trading security for convenience.
If you’re not sure which way to go, check your lock’s model and your door’s thickness before buying. Sometimes, calling a lock pro for advice (even just over the phone) can save you time and hassle down the road.
Comparing Popular Strike Plate Features (Table)
Here’s a quick table to compare some of the most important features of top-rated deadbolt strike plates for outswing exterior doors:
Brand | Material | Length of Screws | Reinforced Box | Universal Fit |
Schlage Security Strike | Heavy-duty steel | 3-inch | Yes | No |
Defender Security S 4180 | Solid brass | 3-inch | Yes | Yes |
Prime-Line U 9987 | Stainless steel | 3-inch | Optional | Yes |
If you want that extra feeling of security, prioritize reinforced metal and long screws. These make the biggest difference on an outswing exterior door.
When Should You Replace Your Strike Plate?
Even the best deadbolt strike plate doesn’t last forever. If you’re not sure when to swap yours out, here are a few signs it’s time for an upgrade:
- Rust or Corrosion: Exposure to rain and humidity can eat away at the metal. Once a plate gets pitted or rusty, it’s easier to break.
- Loose or Missing Screws: If you keep tightening the screws and the plate still wiggles, chances are the holes are worn out or the screws aren’t long enough.
- Visible Bending or Dents: If you see signs the plate has been forced (even accidentally), it’s already been weakened.
- Difficulty Locking the Door: This can mean your frame has shifted, or the plate isn’t lined up right—time for a replacement and realignment.
Upgrading isn’t just about safety—it often makes your lock work smoother, too. And if you ever upgrade to a smart lock or new deadbolt, it’s smart to put in a heavy-duty strike plate at the same time.
Investing in the right deadbolt strike plate is an easy, affordable way to seriously boost your home’s security—especially with outswing exterior doors that face the weather and the world.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Deadbolt Strike Plate for Your Outswing Door
When it comes to outswing exterior doors, security upgrades start at the frame. The strike plate might be small, but it takes the brunt of any attempted break-in. Getting the best one—like a heavy-duty option from Schlage, Defender Security, or Prime-Line—means you’re not just locking the door, but locking out worry.
Pay attention to fit, reinforcement, and those all-important long screws. Don’t rush, and don’t settle for the cheapest or thinnest plate. The peace of mind you’ll get every time you twist your deadbolt into a solid strike plate? That’s worth every penny—and every minute spent getting it right.