Let me start by saying this lock cylinder feels substantial. The moment I held it, the weight of the H59 copper material gave me confidence – this isn't some flimsy hardware store lock. The machining is precise, and the dual-open mechanism operates smoother than my old lock ever did.
I installed it on my backyard gate that gets heavy use (deliveries, dog walks, kids coming/going). After 3 months of daily use, there's zero visible wear on the keyway or pins. The powder metallurgy core really does seem to reduce friction – my keys slide in effortlessly compared to the gritty feel of my previous lock.
BUT – and this is major – check your measurements twice before ordering. When I initially received a wrong size (my mistake), the return shipping quote was $300 via UPS. For a $25 lock! I ended up keeping it as a spare rather than paying that absurd fee. Customer service was responsive but couldn't offer reasonable return alternatives.
The security upgrade is noticeable though. The pins have a more complex configuration that makes picking attempts obvious (tested with my locksport buddy). For high-traffic exterior doors where you want durability without rekeying often, it's excellent – just be absolutely certain about your cylinder measurements first.