Residential & Commercial Security - Locks, Keys & Dead Bolts - Need exterior handset/deadbolt recommendation

I am going to put in a steel, insulated back door to replace the 40 year old wood door. Will also be replacing the handle and deadbolt. Other than getting ANSI grade 1 or 2, is there anything else to look for? Are all the major brands (Kwikset, Schlage, etc.) about the same within the same price range?

I see that Kwikset has grade 1 locks in the same price range as Schlage grade 2 which makes me wonder if they aren't cutting corners somewhere else.

You are correct, ANSI testing only looks at certain limited design & construction criteria in grading locks; I think there is more quality variation amongst different brands within the same grade than the three different grades generally. So, for example, those of us in the industry would rather have the Gr.2 Schlage than the Gr.1 Kwikset any day.

rstripe is quite right.

The door is only as strong as the frame that holds it.

If you want real security, you will either need to install a steel frame and jamb or install products to reinforce the jamb.

I have been to many people homes and even the most expensive locks are irrelevant when there are only 1" screws holding the hinges to the frame or the strike plate to the jamb. Door-frames need to be secured to the stud otherwise the doors will sag over time too.