AboutJames Expertise I am knowledgeable in almost every area of Locksmithing. This includes locks, keys, lost keys, residential and commercial lockouts, rekeying, masterkeying, high security locks, access control, electric locks, security cameras and home safety. I have been running an online business since 2004 where I sell all types of lock and security hardware to everyone from apartment renters to business owners to the US government. Before that I started a locksmith service in 1999. I deal with many types of security equipment including high security safe locks, heavy duty padlocks, exit devices, biometric readers, electric strikes, magnetic locks, full surface hinges and I only sell what I personally stand behind 100%. The online business has given me a more in-depth look at the locksmithing industry, helping me to learn more about each and every product that I offer, as well as products I don't have but end up finding for customers to solve any issues they have with security or door hardware.
Please don't submit any automotive or safe questions as these aren't areas that I can help in.
Experience I have been Locksmithing since 1999 and own my own Locksmithing business. I have many years of hands-on experience through the many services I have performed for my customers. I've run my business the way I wanted, treating everyone as I would like to be treated and knowing that any customer could be my last if I didn't perform my locksmithing duties as I had promised.
Organizations Montana Locksmith Association
Education/Credentials I have a diploma in Masterkeying, Advanced Locksmithing & Locksmithing from Foley-Belsaw.
Past/Present Clients US government, colleges, schools, city and state governments, large and small corporations, home owners.
Question I bought two handles for front and rear door and was sooo excited to install (I've done a bunch so it was no big deal...) and tore off the Schlage handle and went to install the new Kwikset handle...
I then realized after the handle was about destroyed that the deadlatch won't reach the middle of the hole. It's the standard 2 3/4 or whatever backset and apparently this front door was cut for a 4" backset...
I've tried everything from buying a new Schlage handle or an extender for the Kwikset handle. No one has anything in this backset. Any options other then replace the front door?? Please hurry before someone breaks into my house!
Answer Hello Greg,
Your only option is to redrill the door for 2-3/4" backset and cover the old hole with a piece of metal on each side. There are wrap around plates that are 3 sided but none that I know of are made longer than 4-1/2", measured from the latch edge across the face of the door toward the hinges. Most home centers have blank sheets of steel or brass you can cut to fit.
That is of course unless you change the door.
Nobody I know of makes a 4" backset for anything. 5" is available with some though.
