The Locksmith Dictionary defines a rim lock as;
a lock or latch typically mounted on the surface of a door or drawer.
In addition to the potential for having a different operating mechanism, the rim lock may be offered with different functions. For example, it could contain a simple latch, or it could be a dead bolt. The image shows clockwise from 12, a nightlatch, a bit key lock that could be a lever lock or just warded, and a drop bolt or Jimmyproof deadbolt. There are four general types of deadbolts.
- The standard deadbolt consisting of a square bolt projected from the lock face to engage a strike.
- A rotary deadbolt which extends one or more bolts from the lock face and rotates them to interact with the strike in a way that would prevent spreading the jamb to defeat the lock.
- A drop bolt deadbolt, (also called Jimmyproof), which is typically not exposed to view. The strike has individual loops that mesh with the lock case and the drop bolt typically moves vertically to enter them. This lock design also prevents spreading the jamb to defeat the lock.
- An Automatic deadbolt, typically only available in Europe and Specifically England, this deadbolt has a trigger that activates the bolt toward its extended position as the door is moved to the closing position. A US version made by Ideal Security has been discontinued since around 1978.
