How to Buy a 3 Star Cylinder: Features to Look For

How to Buy a 3 Star Cylinder: Features to Look For

Choosing the right 3 star cylinder is a crucial decision for any homeowner or tradesperson specifying security hardware for doors. The term 3 star cylinder normally refers to a TS007 3 star rating: a police-backed standard that confirms exceptional resistance to common forced-entry techniques such as snapping, drilling, bumping and picking. This post explains the features to look for, practical trade tips and simple DIY guidance so you can select and fit the correct cylinder for your property.

What the 3 star cylinder rating means

A TS007 3 star cylinder has been independently tested and graded to meet the highest level under the TS007 scheme; it is designed to resist aggressive attack methods. Key points to be aware of:

• Anti-snap design: sacrificial section so burglars cannot snap the portion that exposes the cam; the remaining section retains the locking mechanism.
• Anti-drill: hardened steel pins and plates to resist drilling tools.
• Anti-pick and anti-bump protection: internal pin configurations and components minimise the risk of covert entry techniques.
• Tested by accredited bodies and often referenced by insurance providers as a condition of cover.

Compatibility and dimensions: what to measure

Getting the size right is a straightforward but vital step. Euro profile cylinders are available in symmetrical and asymmetrical lengths. To measure correctly:

• Remove the existing cylinder or measure from the central fixing screw to each end; record both distances in millimetres (for example 35/45).
• Measure the overall length as a check; common overall lengths include 70mm, 80mm, 90mm etc.
• Note whether you need a double cylinder (key both sides), a single entry cylinder, or a cylinder with thumbturn on one side.
• Check the brand and type of multipoint lock or lock case; some cams or gearboxes require a specific cam profile or cam position.

Incorrect length causes the cylinder to protrude; even a high-quality 3 star cylinder that sticks out will be vulnerable to attack and may invalidate insurance requirements.

Key features to specify

When buying a 3 star cylinder, consider the following features to match performance with the installation:

• Certification: ensure the product is explicitly described as TS007 3 star; check for independent test marks and manufacturer declarations.
• Key control: restricted or registered key systems prevent unauthorised duplication; essential for communal buildings and management clients.
• Finish and corrosion resistance: choose nickel, brass or chrome finishes with anti-tarnish coatings for external doors and coastal locations.
• Cam type and rotation: confirm single or reversing cam, and whether the cam engages at 45 or 90 degrees; this must match the lock mechanism.
• Security extras: anti-bump pins, anti-drill plates and reinforced end caps increase durability and resistance to attack.

Trade advice: ordering and specifying for projects

For trade professionals specifying cylinders for customers, clarity and documentation reduce call-backs and warranty issues. Best practice includes:

• Always record exact measurements and door handedness; supply diagrams where needed.
• Specify keying requirements up front: keyed alike, keyed different or master key systems; consider registered key control for social housing and commercial projects.
• Include the TS007 3 star requirement on job sheets and client quotations; this aligns with many insurers and local authority standards.
• Keep stock of common asymmetric sizes; ordering a bespoke length can increase lead time.
• Where possible, match cylinder finish to handles and escutcheons; this improves the finish of the installation and avoids unnecessary returns.

DIY guidance: replacing a cylinder safely

Replacing a euro cylinder is straightforward for a competent DIYer; typical tools required are a screwdriver and the replacement cylinder. Steps:

• Open the door and localise the fixing screw on the face of the lock body; remove door furniture if needed to access the screw.
• Loosen the fixing screw while supporting the cylinder; insert the key and turn it about 10 to 15 degrees so the cam aligns and the cylinder can slide out.
• Withdraw the old cylinder; measure as described earlier to confirm the new cylinder length and cam orientation.
• Insert the new TS007 3 star cylinder, ensuring the cam seats correctly; re-fit the fixing screw and test key operation several times before replacing handles.
• If fitting a thumbturn variant, ensure emergency access requirements are considered, especially for communal flats or where building regulations apply.

Stop and seek professional help if the cylinder will not withdraw easily; forcing components can damage the multipoint lock or door furniture.

Complementary security measures

A 3 star cylinder forms a strong core to your door security; for best results combine it with additional measures:

• Secure the door frame with long fixings for strike plates and hinge screws; weak fixings allow the whole assembly to be levered off.
• Install anti-jemmy hardware such as reinforced rebated keepers and hinge bolts for outward-opening doors.
• Use high-quality handles and escutcheons; some furniture offers extra protection against manipulation of the cylinder from the outside.
• Consider Secured by Design accredited products and check whether your insurer or local authority offers a specification list.

Choosing a supplier and paperwork

Buy from a reputable trade supplier and retain proof of purchase and certificate information for insurance or warranty purposes. Ask for:

• Product test certificates or manufacturer datasheets confirming the TS007 3 star rating.
• Key registration cards where applicable; these help prevent unauthorised key duplication.
• Advice on matching the cylinder to the lock case, especially for older or non-standard multipoint systems.

Recommended Products

Based on this article, you may find these products helpful:

• TL Thumb Turn Euro Cylinder
• Ultion Plus TS007 3* Kitemarked Euro Key & Turn Cylinder
• Multipoint Gearbox GU Old Style
• In-Line Window Mechanism
• Offset Window Mechanism

Conclusion and next steps

Buying a 3 star cylinder means choosing a TS007 3 star rated euro cylinder with anti-snap, anti-drill and anti-pick protection, selecting the correct length and cam type, and deciding on key control and finish. For homeowners, measure your current cylinder and check existing insurance requirements. For installers and specifiers, document sizes and keying requirements and consider ordering registered key systems for managed properties. For more detailed technical information about euro cylinders and related hardware, see our pillar page: /guides/euro-cylinders. If you need assistance with sizing or a trade quote, contact our sales team with the door make, lock type and measurements and we will advise on the most suitable 3 star cylinder for the job.