Weslock

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Overview

Weslock is a manufacturer of residential door hardware, including lock cylinders, handlesets, levers, knobs, deadbolts, and bath and cabinet hardware, focusing on low to medium security products. It positions itself in the residential market with Grade II cylindrical locks noted for ease of installation and use by builders. The brand expanded its offerings after ownership changes, sourcing from Asia to enhance quality and competitiveness.¹²⁴

History

Weslock was founded in 1932 in California by the Hilgren family, specifically Carl and James Hilgren, and merged with Western Lock Sales to form Weslock Lock Manufacturing. The family-owned company was sold in 1960 to Tool Research Engineering, entering a corporate phase with owners like ALCOA and others, before entrepreneurs from Tulsa, Oklahoma acquired it in 1998, transitioning it back to family-oriented operation under Premiere Lock Company. Manufacturing shifted from U.S. to Mexico in 1998, then to Asia around 2001-2002 to improve quality and finances.¹²

Product Lines

Product Line	Positioning	Price Range
Molten Bronze (premium bronze finishes)	high-end residential handlesets	$200 - $800
Elegance (contemporary designs)	modern door hardware	$150 - $500
Traditionale (traditional styles)	classic lever and knob sets	$100 - $400
Premiere Essentials (builder-grade basics)	affordable cylindrical locks	$50 - $200
600 Series (cylindrical locks)	Grade II security standards	$40 - $150
400 Series (entry-level hardware)	basic residential use	$30 - $100

Manufacturing

Manufacturing was U.S.-based until 1998, moved to Mexico, then ceased there in 2001 and shifted to multiple facilities in Asia by 2002 to improve quality and financial strength. Products are not made in-house but sourced from these Asian partners under Weslock specifications.¹²

Notable Products

Grade II Cylindrical Locks - Only Grade II rated cylindrical door lock in residential market, favored by builders for reliability.
Molten Bronze Handlesets - Premium collection with bronze finishes for exterior doors.
Elegance Levers - Contemporary lever sets for interior and exterior use.
Traditionale Knobs - Traditional style knobs suitable for residential doors.
Premiere Essentials Deadbolts - Builder-grade deadbolts with basic security features.

Reputation

Weslock is recognized by builders and residential markets for its Grade II cylindrical locks, ease of installation, and value in the builder segment. Professionals note its reliability for standard home use but position it as mid-tier rather than high-security. Some criticism arises from offshoring manufacturing, though recent Asian sourcing has improved quality perception.¹²⁶

Sources (8)