Locks

Safe locks

Last reviewed on 10. August 2026 8 min read by Tim Herberger, Fachredaktion bei Bremer Tresor

All safe locks installed by Bremer Tresor guarantee a high level of security. The locking systems are adapted to the respective security level of the safe. When choosing a safe lock, your preferred method of operation is the priority.

Among the most popular locks are both the classic double-bit high-security lock and the electronic combination lock. One variation of this is the electronic combination lock with revision (emergency opening). In the event of an electronic lock failure, fire, or a melted keypad, or vandalism following a failed break-in attempt, the safe can be opened using this emergency key.

3 questions to find the right lock

Which lock is right for me?

Instead of reading through all the systems, tell us how you would like to open it and what functions you need. The tool will suggest the smallest lock that can do everything you need. Detailed descriptions can be found below.

With key

Safe lock with key: Double-bit lock

Double-bit key of a Bremer Tresor security cabinet
Standard equipment, at no extra cost

The double-bit lock is one of the most reliable opening and locking systems. Due to its sophisticated mechanics, the lock cannot be defeated without the key. With a key lock, you must always ensure the key is stored securely and is inaccessible to other persons.

Advantages:

  • Reliable locking mechanism
  • Cannot be destroyed by fire or physical force
  • Affordable variant, installed as standard closure at no extra charge

Disadvantages:

  • Depending on the thickness of the safe door, the key can be up to 17 cm long, making it inconvenient to carry around permanently.
  • Since the key is the only opening medium, potential burglars often assume it is kept nearby. This can lead to reckless searching and destructive actions.
  • If all existing keys are lost, a safe emergency opening is unavoidable.
  • A trained look at a key ring reveals the possession of or access to a safe.

More about the double-bit lock

With code

High-quality electronic combination lock

Electronic combination lock Stellar with number pad
No key to lose

Our high-quality electronic combination lock is operated via a subtle number pad. It can be opened with a 6-digit user code or a 7-digit super code (if the user code is lost). The lock features an electronic opening motor and a locking mechanism for securing. The numerical code can be changed as often as desired. If the battery is dead, the lock can be powered externally from the outside (instructions). An opening log of the last 32 events can be output via acoustic signals.

Advantages:

  • The safe cannot be opened without the code. There is no key that can fall into the wrong hands.
  • The police advise using this locking mechanism to prevent vandalism. Potential burglars will not look for a key.
  • The code can be reprogrammed as often as desired; emergency opening via a super code.
  • A code can be shared in an emergency.

Disadvantages:

  • If the lock is defective, only an emergency opening helps.
  • Destruction of the lock in case of fire, can only be opened via safe emergency opening.
  • If both the code and the super code are lost, it can only be opened via safe emergency opening.

More about the combination lock Safes with a combination lock

Combination

Electronic combination lock with emergency key opening: Stellar with revision

Electronic combination lock Stellar with revision, combined with double-bit lock
Two locks, mechanically coupled

Two installed locks that are mechanically connected to each other. Activating one lock unlocks both. This lock combination is also referred to as an electronic combination lock with revision, where "revision" refers to the possible emergency opening via the key lock. The installed electronic combination lock offers additional functions: The numerical code can be changed as often as desired, as can the 7-digit super code, and an opening log of the last 32 events can be output via acoustic signals.

Advantages:

  • Combines the advantages of both locks.
  • In case of electronic combination lock failure (e.g., due to fire, lost code, vandalism), a key can be used as a backup.

Disadvantages:

  • Due to the width required, it cannot be implemented on narrow safes.
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Note: Since the key is usually only used for emergencies, it should not be kept in the house.
Premium

Kaba Mauer lock: Combination lock with hidden emergency key opening

Kaba Mauer Combi lock with rotary handle and number pad
VdS Class 2, independent of safe grade

The Kaba Mauer Combi B 90 is the highest quality lock that can be installed in our safe models. It features VdS Class 2 certification, regardless of the safe's security level. It consists of an electronic combination lock and a concealed double-bit lock, which can be used as a mechanical revision lock in an emergency. An excerpt of its functions:

  • Up to 90 user codes, plus master code, manager code, and courier code
  • Independent user codes, individually lockable and unlockable
  • Dual code as a four-eyes principle, opening only via two independent codes
  • Code lockout after three incorrect attempts, followed by 1, 2, 4, 8, and a maximum of 16 minutes
  • Opening delay time of 1 to 19 minutes
  • Opening delay to prevent robbery; the courier code bypasses it
  • Remote lockout, as long as the home alarm system is armed
  • Removal contact against manipulation of the input unit
  • Silent alarm via separate code, only in conjunction with alarm system and Kaba alarm box
  • Audit function with the last 960 events, readable via PC software. The software is an accessory available at an extra charge.

Advantages:

  • Up to 90 user codes plus master, manager, and courier codes
  • Combines the advantages of logical and mechanical locking
  • In case of electronic lock failure (e.g., due to fire, lost code, damage), a key can be used as a backup.
  • Since the key is generally only used for emergencies, it does not have to be stored in the house. Prevents vandalism. However, the police advise against using a key lock.

Disadvantages:

  • Cannot be installed in narrow safes due to the required width.
  • More expensive to purchase due to installation and mechanical coupling.
  • Alarm functions and remote lockout only run with a VdS alarm system and the additional EMA product, not ex works.

More about the Kaba Mauer lock

Contactless

RFID lock: Contactless access with up to 20 user chips

RFID lock from INSYS locks with contactless chip opening
Opening via chip, without code or key

Our innovative RFID lock combines state-of-the-art technology with maximum ease of use. The lock can be opened contactlessly via an RFID chip, ideal for fast and secure access. Programming is user-friendly and performed directly at the lock. The scope of delivery includes one RFID master chip and two user chips. Up to 20 chips can be programmed simultaneously. Below is a small excerpt of the functions:

  • Contactless opening via RFID chip
  • Storage of up to 20 user chips
  • Master chip for programming additional chips
  • Automatic closing after 4 seconds
  • External emergency power supply via Micro-USB
  • Acoustic signal for confirmation of every action

Advantages:

  • Contactless access, ideal for fast, hygienic use
  • Simple programming directly at the lock without additional devices
  • Up to 20 user chips possible simultaneously
  • External power supply possible in case of dead battery (Micro-USB)
  • Acoustic confirmation of every action for clear feedback

Disadvantages:

  • If the master chip is lost, a complete reprogramming is required.
  • No code access, exclusively chip-based.
  • Interference from electromagnetic fields is theoretically possible.
  • In case of defect, only emergency opening by qualified personnel helps.

More about the RFID lock Safes with an RFID lock

Break-in behavior

Combination lock against vandalism

As another aspect, you should consider the behavior of burglars. The police report that there is increased vandalism with locks that can obviously only be opened with a key. Due to the size of a safe key (from 9 cm to 18 cm), burglars assume it is not carried around but stored near the safe.

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Tip: Choose a combination lock if your safe is in a visible area. Even in private settings, a combination lock is recommended. Rummaging through personal belongings is a precarious invasion of privacy.
Technology

How reliable is the electronics?

The electronic components of our installed combination locks are very high quality and designed to be fail-safe. Potential wear parts of the electronic locks have been mounted on the outside. For example, in the event of a defective number pad, a simple replacement can be carried out from the outside while the safe is locked. We would be happy to help you with safe repair in this case. Therefore, a safe emergency opening is only necessary in the most extreme exceptional cases. The electronics are powered by an internal 9V block battery. Even though a battery charge is sufficient for several thousand opening cycles, a situation may arise where the battery is dead. The Stellar combination lock indicates a low battery via acoustic signals, and the Kaba Mauer lock via additional visual signals, so that a change can be made early. If this point is missed, the lock can still be opened via an external power supply. See our guide: Open safe when battery is empty.

In addition to technical failure, human error can also lead to denied access. If the electronic combination lock does not have a revision (emergency opening via key), there is no other way to open the safe if the code is forgotten. To prevent this, our Stellar combination locks have the option of opening via a super code. The functionality can be most easily compared to unlocking your mobile phone's SIM card. You have your PIN with which you can unlock your card. As a backup, you have the PUK, which also unlocks your SIM card in an emergency. You have one or more opening combinations for daily use, but for emergencies, you have your super code noted somewhere, with which you can open your safe even if you lose your user code.

Standard

Safe lock classes

In contrast to the resistance grades of a safe, the security levels of the locks are divided into only 3 levels and are permitted for a different number of security classes. Safe locks, like the safes themselves, are tested by the VdS for their resistance to physical force as well as mechanical and electronic opening tools. The locks are divided into 3 classes according to EN 1300 and are compatible with almost all of our safe types: Lock class VdS 1, VdS 2, and VdS 3.

The lock class depends on the security level of the safe. The VdS specifies which lock class must be installed for which security level. For safes from resistance grade 4 upwards, the installation of 2 locks is mandatory.

Resistance grade (EN 1143-1) Number of required locks Required lock class
N/0 1 1
1 1 1
2 1 1
3 1 2
4 2 2
5 2 2
Tim Herberger
Tim Herberger
Fachredaktion bei Bremer Tresor

Tim Herberger schreibt die Ratgeber von Bremer Tresor. Er bereitet Normen, Vorschriften und Praxiswissen so auf, dass daraus eine klare Kaufentscheidung wird, und gleicht jeden Text mit unseren Fachleuten aus Beratung und Service ab.

Frequently asked questions

Which safe lock should I choose?
That depends primarily on your preferred method of operation. A double-bit lock if you like it mechanical and low-maintenance and can keep the key safe away from home. A combination lock if you do not want to carry a key with you. Stellar with override or Kaba Mauer if you want to combine both. RFID if multiple people need quick and contactless access.
Is a combination lock safer than a key lock?
Both are tested according to EN 1300 and secure. The difference lies in the behavior during a break-in: The police report that more vandalism occurs with visible key locks because burglars suspect the key is nearby. That is why they recommend a combination lock, especially if the safe is in a visible location.
What lock class do I need?
This is specified by the VdS depending on the security level of the safe. Up to Grade 2, lock class 1 is sufficient
What happens if the electronics fail?
Wear parts are located on the outside and can be replaced while the safe is locked. If the battery is empty, power can be supplied externally. If the code is lost, the supercode can help. Only if none of this works is an emergency opening necessary. Locks with an override or the Kaba Mauer additionally have an emergency key.
Can I change the lock later?
For most models, yes, for an additional charge. The most common case is switching from a double-bit lock to an electronic combination lock, see Retrofitting a safe combination lock. Important: The new lock must meet the same lock class according to EN 1300, otherwise the certification will be void.