Kwikset San Clemente Front Door Lock Handle and Deadbolt Set, Entry Handleset Exterior with Interior Reversible Lever, Satin Brass, Pick Resistant SmartKey Deadbolt Security, with Microban Protection

Why I chose the San Clemente handleset

I upgraded my front door hardware to the San Clemente handleset because I wanted a clean, modern profile without compromising security or ease of installation. The satin brass finish has a warm, muted sheen that reads more architectural than flashy, and the low, rectangular escutcheon lines suit contemporary and transitional doors alike. More importantly, I needed something that would fit a standard two-bore door prep, work with an adjustable backset, and give me the flexibility to rekey without calling a locksmith. On paper, this set checked those boxes; in practice, it has held up well.

Design and build

The exterior pull is long and comfortable to grab, with a thumb-press that engages smoothly. Inside, the lever is reversible, so left- or right-hand swings don’t require special ordering. The lever uses dual compression springs, and that detail matters: lever “sag” is a common failure on cheaper sets, but here the handle returns crisply to horizontal and stays there. After repeated daily use, the action remains tight with no play.

Satin brass can be tricky—some finishes skew too yellow or too shiny. This one lands in a nice spot: a soft satin with enough depth to hide fingerprints better than a high-polish brass, and it ties in nicely with other warm hardware tones. The rosettes and escutcheons sit low and flat, which helps the set look more expensive than it is.

A small but welcome touch: the hardware is treated with Microban. It doesn’t replace cleaning, but it does inhibit surface bacteria between cleanings. That’s not a reason alone to buy it, yet it’s a meaningful add-on for a high-touch piece of hardware.

Security and SmartKey

The deadbolt is the heart of any entry set, and this one is BHMA Grade 1 for security, durability, and finish—the highest residential rating. The key cylinder uses Kwikset’s SmartKey system. I rekeyed it myself in under a minute with the included tool, which is the real draw: if you want all your exterior doors on one key or need to change keys quickly (new roommate, lost key), you can do it without swapping cylinders or paying a pro.

SmartKey has matured into a robust, pick-resistant design. As with any lock, overall security depends on the whole door system: a reinforced strike plate, long screws into the framing, and a solid door edge. The set includes the strike plate and standard hardware; I recommend replacing the short strike screws with 3-inch screws into the stud for best results.

Inside, the turn piece operates with a positive, smooth throw. Outside, the keyway is aligned and accessible—not always a given on long plates where misalignment can creep in if you rush the install.

Installation experience

This is a true DIY install with a screwdriver if your door already has two standard bore holes. The adjustable latch is a thoughtful touch: twist to set for 2-3/8" or 2-3/4" backset, and you’re done. The set fits standard door thicknesses between 1-3/8" and 1-3/4". If your door is thicker, plan on a thick door conversion kit.

A few practical notes from my install:

• Check for the bottom support. Many long pulls use a bottom through-bolt or support post. If your old door didn’t have that hole, you’ll need to drill. Measure twice, tape the area to prevent finish chipping, and drill straight through for a clean fit.
• Align the latch correctly. Make sure the slanted face of the latch points toward the door closing direction.
• Don’t fully tighten anything until everything is aligned. Set all components loosely, ensure the deadbolt throws cleanly and the handle operates without rubbing, then tighten in sequence.
• If you have a metal-clad door, be mindful of insulation pushing into the bottom support hole. Clearing it before final assembly makes threading the machine screw much easier.
• Rekey after installation, not before. With the door open, follow the SmartKey steps carefully; it’s simple, but precision matters.

From box to working door, I was done in under an hour, including drilling the bottom support hole and rekeying.

Daily use and ergonomics

Operation is quiet and confidence-inspiring. The thumb-press outside requires a deliberate but smooth push; the interior lever has just enough spring resistance to feel precise. The lever’s shape avoids sharp edges, so it won’t snag sleeves, and it offers good control when your hands are full. The deadbolt turn has a clear stop at locked and unlocked.

I appreciate that the lever stays horizontal—no slow droop over time, which is both a cosmetic and functional headache on many budget sets. The finish has shrugged off routine handling and weather exposure so far, and it wipes clean without streaking.

Fit and compatibility

• Door prep: Standard two-bore exterior prep is required (one for the deadbolt, one for the handle/lever). The set also expects a bottom support point for the long pull; if your door lacks this, plan on drilling.
• Backset and thickness: The adjustable latch covers 2-3/8" and 2-3/4" backsets. Standard thickness doors (1-3/8" to 1-3/4") are supported out of the box.
• Handing: The interior lever is reversible.
• Keyway: SmartKey uses the Kwikset keyway; you can rekey to compatible keys, but not to other manufacturers’ keyways.

If you have double doors, matching dummy trim is available separately for the inactive leaf, which keeps the look consistent across both doors.

Durability and finish considerations

The construction is robust for the category, and the BHMA Grade 1 rating covers not just security but cycle durability and finish performance. That said, all finishes age differently depending on exposure. If your door faces harsh sun or salt air, basic care goes a long way: gentle soap-and-water cleanings, no harsh chemicals, and an occasional non-abrasive wax can help maintain the sheen. The mechanism itself feels well-supported by the dual springs; no rattles, no looseness.

What I’d change

• The bottom support screw can be fussy to start, especially on metal-clad doors. A slightly more forgiving capture nut or tapered lead-in would make that step faster.
• A clearer callout on the box regarding thick door compatibility would help DIYers avoid surprises. The set is designed for standard thickness; if you’re at 1-7/8" or 2", you’ll need the conversion kit.
• Including longer strike screws in the box would better align with the security story. They’re inexpensive and make a real difference.

None of these are deal-breakers, but they’re worth knowing before you start.

Value and warranty

Between the modern aesthetic, BHMA Grade 1 rating, and SmartKey convenience, the San Clemente handleset offers strong value. It looks and feels more premium than many similarly priced sets. The lifetime mechanical and finish warranty is reassuring, especially for an exterior piece that will see years of weather and daily handling.

Recommendation

I recommend the San Clemente handleset for homeowners who want a modern, low-profile look without giving up Grade 1 security or DIY-friendly installation. It fits standard doors, the lever stays crisp thanks to the dual spring design, and SmartKey makes rekeying a quick, tool-included task. Plan ahead if your door is thicker than 1-3/4" or lacks the bottom support hole, and upgrade the strike screws during install for best security. With those notes in mind, it’s a well-rounded, reliable entry set that elevates both the look and function of a front door.