It works fine on deadbolts, as long as it takes a non-cylindrical key. but again, bump keys are generally loud when used, and snap guns are imho the best way to commit a burglary. if you are paranoid, you can get a cylindrical dead bolt half that takes the kinds of keys that are on vending machines. I have a training lock of one of these and it is so hard to pick, most burglers would just go to the next house.