ND Series versus ALX Series, and why a building might run both

The ND Series is Schlage's strongest, best-selling cylindrical lock, offering 24 mechanical functions across 9 lever designs and tested to withstand 3,100 in-lb of abusive lever torque, well beyond the Grade 1 standard requirement. The ALX Series is a Grade 2 modular lock built on a patent-pending chassis that allows in-field function changes without swapping the whole lockset, useful when a building's room-use needs shift over time. Buildings often run ND on high-traffic exterior and primary doors while specifying ALX on lower-traffic interior doors, since the two are designed for visual compatibility across finishes, which keeps a consistent look without paying Grade 1 pricing on every opening.

L Series mortise locks

Schlage's L Series is the most comprehensive mortise platform in the catalog, with standard single-point, multi-point, electrified, and electronic configurations all built around the same mortise chassis. Functions like storeroom, classroom, and corridor cover most institutional needs, and trim options range from standard levers to indication trim that shows lock status from across a room, a common spec in healthcare and classroom-lockdown applications.

B Series deadbolts

The B Series covers both Grade 1 (B500, B600, B250, B260 lines) and Grade 2 (B350, B360) deadbolts, plus the B250 deadlatch function. Grade 1 models use a 1-inch hardened steel bolt with an anti-saw pin, while Grade 2 steps down to 5/8-inch throw. These auxiliary locks get specified both as added security on exterior doors and as a standalone primary lock on lower-security interior applications.

Key systems across the Schlage line

Everest 29 and Primus cylinder options run across all three families, ND, ALX, L Series, and B Series, which means a building can standardize on one key system regardless of which lock type sits on a given door. Everest 29 cylinders use a patented undercut key design with a cylinder checkpin for enhanced physical security, while Primus adds a second set of pins for restricted, geographically exclusive key control. FSIC and SFIC interchangeable core formats are supported across the range for buildings that need on-site rekeying without pulling the whole lockset.

Browse parts for specific families: mortise locks for L Series components, or deadbolts for full B Series diagrams.

Why order Schlage hardware parts from Security Parts

Security Parts has carried Schlage commercial hardware since 2001, across the ND, ALX, L Series, and B Series lines. We stock OEM Schlage components alongside compatible aftermarket parts, ship most in-stock orders the same day, and offer free shipping on orders of $300 and up. If you're not sure which series or function is installed, our team can usually confirm it from a model number, a photo, or even a description of the lever and finish.

What's the difference between ND and ALX Series?

ND is Grade 1, ALX is Grade 2 and modular, allowing in-field function changes. They're designed to look identical across finishes for mixed-grade specification.

What's the difference between FSIC and SFIC?

Full-size interchangeable core (FSIC) and small-format interchangeable core (SFIC) are both rekeyable on-site formats, differing mainly in physical core size and which cylinders they fit.

Can I keep one key system across ND, L Series, and B Series locks?

Yes, Everest 29 and Primus cylinder options are available across all three Schlage commercial families.

Is the ALX Series as strong as Grade 1?

No, ALX is Grade 2, built for strength and flexibility at a lower price point than the Grade 1 ND Series.

Which Schlage deadbolt grade do I need?

Grade 1 (B500, B600) for higher-security or higher-traffic exterior doors, Grade 2 (B350, B360) for lower-traffic interior or budget-sensitive applications.

Does Security Parts sell genuine Schlage hardware?

Yes, we carry OEM Schlage parts alongside compatible aftermarket alternatives, and we'll always tell you which is which.

Can you help me identify which Schlage series I have?

Yes, send us a model number, a photo, or a description of the lever and finish, and our team can confirm the series and function.