Schlage B563 Classroom Deadbolt

The Schlage B563 is the classroom deadbolt from the B500 Series - Grade 2. If you've been searching "b563", "classroom deadbolt", "schlage grade 2 deadbolt", or "schlage deadbolt" - the B563 is ANSI function E0172, the classroom deadbolt configuration. The classroom function means the thumbturn on the inside can retract the bolt but cannot extend it. Only a key can throw the deadbolt from outside. This design prevents occupants from accidentally or intentionally deadbolting themselves inside the room without a key - the correct function for classrooms, teacher workrooms, and institutional interior doors.

Classroom Deadbolt Function: What E0172 Means

The difference between a classroom deadbolt (B563) and a standard single-cylinder deadbolt (B560) is in how the inside thumbturn works. On a standard single-cylinder deadbolt, the thumbturn both throws and retracts the bolt. You can deadbolt the door from inside without a key. On the B563 classroom function, the inside thumbturn retracts the bolt only. It can't throw it. The only way to extend the deadbolt - to lock the door - is by key from outside.

In a classroom application, a teacher can exit the room, key-lock the door from the corridor, and students inside can still use the thumbturn to exit without needing a key. But no one inside can lock themselves in from inside using the thumbturn alone. This is why it's specified for K-12 and institutional doors where inside-lockout capability is an operational and safety concern.

B563 vs B663: Grade 2 vs Grade 1

The B563 is from the B500 Series - Grade 2. The B663 is the identical classroom deadbolt function (E0172) from the B600 Series - Grade 1. Both are classroom deadbolts. Grade 1 means the B663 meets higher cycle count, resistance, and strength testing thresholds than the B563. For interior classroom doors with light to moderate daily use, the B563 Grade 2 is adequate and more economical. For high-traffic or institutional doors with documented abuse, the B663 Grade 1 is the correct specification. If you're adding a deadbolt as an auxiliary lock to a door that already has a Grade 1 primary lockset, the B563 may be the right balance of cost and function for secondary locking.

B500 Series Security Features Above Grade 2

The B563 includes security features not common to most Grade 2 deadbolts. The bolt uses zinc construction with a hardened steel anti-saw pin insert that spins when it contacts a saw blade - defeating cutting attacks. An anti-pry shield on the latch body protects the bolt from prying attacks. The free-spinning cylinder collar resists wrenching and grip attacks. The metal dust box ships with three 3-inch screws that anchor deep into the door frame - improving kick-in resistance at the strike side. These are all features more typically found in Grade 1 products and give the B563 security characteristics above its grade classification.

180-Degree Indicator Trim Option

The B563 is marked with an asterisk in Schlage's catalog, indicating it's compatible with optional 180-degree visibility indicator trim. The indicator window wraps three sides of the trim assembly and is large enough to read from across a room - showing locked/unlocked status without approaching the door. For facilities where staff need to quickly verify room status from a distance, the indicator option is specified alongside the B563.

Specifications

Model: Schlage B563

Series: B500 Series Classroom Deadbolt

ANSI Function: E0172 - Classroom (thumbturn retracts only; key throws and retracts)

Grade: ANSI A156.5 Grade 2

Grade 1 Version: B663 (B600 Series)

Deadbolt: 1" throw, zinc with hardened steel anti-saw pin

Backset: Adjustable 2-3/8" or 2-3/4" standard; 5" fire-rated option

Door Thickness: 1-3/8" to 2-1/4" standard conventional

Faceplate: Square corner 1-1/8" x 2-1/4" standard

Strike: 1-1/8" x 2-3/4" with metal dust box, three 3" screws

Cylinder: 6-pin solid brass

IC Options: SFIC (-B suffix); FSIC (-J suffix); conventional (-P suffix)

Indicator Trim: Optional 180-degree visibility indicator compatible

UL: Optional UL10B/10C listing for fire door

Finishes: 605, 606, 612, 613, 619, 622, 625, 626

Suites With: Schlage, Von Duprin, LCN products

American Locksets has stocked Schlage B500 Series deadbolts since 2001.