Introduction to the RGL BKEX1200ZL — Adjustable Z & L Bracket (1200 lb)
TheRGL BKEX1200ZLis a purpose-built adjustable Z and L mounting bracket set designed for heavy-duty 1200 lb (545 kg) maglocks such as the RGL EXML1200-GATE and EXML1200-GATE-M. Crafted from anodised aluminium and supplied as a combined Z and L plate kit, this bracket set provides installers with the flexibility to mount large external maglocks on inward-opening gates, non-standard transoms and other challenging door/gate arrangements where standard straight mounting is not possible.
Key features at a glance:
- Adjustable Z & L plates:Offers both orientations to suit a wide variety of mounting situations.
- Outdoor-rated finish:Anodised aluminium construction resists weather and corrosion for long service life.
- Extra reach:The Z extension typically provides an additional ~20 mm reach to resolve alignment and clearance issues.
- Installer-friendly:Robust design intended for professional fitting to heavy-duty external maglocks.
Understanding the technical details helps to evaluate how the BKEX1200ZL will perform in the field. Below are the core specifications followed by the practical benefits those specifications deliver.
- Finish:Anodised aluminium
- Material:Anodised aluminium
- Unboxed weight:1.05 kg
- Boxed weight:1.17 kg
- Z length:185 mm
- L length:222 mm
- Z reach (typ.):Extra ~20 mm
- Compatible maglock:RGL EXML1200-GATE / EXML1200-GATE-M (1200 lb / 545 kg)
- Mount type:Adjustable Z & L bracket set
- Intended use:External gates/doors, inward-opening gates
- Magnet size (ref):220 x 60 x 40 mm (ref)
- Armature size (ref):195 x 60 x 15 mm (ref)
Benefits tied to these specifications:
- Durability and corrosion resistance:The anodised aluminium finish offers strong protection against the elements, making the bracket ideal for exposed external use including coastal environments where corrosion is a concern.
- Strength-to-weight balance:Aluminium keeps the bracket lightweight for handling and fitting while offering adequate rigidity to support a 1200 lb maglock when correctly installed.
- Flexibility of installation:Providing both Z and L plates in one kit reduces the need for multiple components on site and lets installers adapt quickly to varying gate geometries.
- Precision alignment:The adjustable Z reach accommodates small positional offsets (approx. 20 mm) that commonly appear in retrofits and unusual frame designs, improving the likelihood of achieving full rated holding force.
- Professional fit:The bracket is designed with installer workflows in mind — alignment, bolting and drilling layouts are oriented to support secure, long-lasting maglock installations.
The BKEX1200ZL is particularly well suited to situations where flexibility, weather resistance and heavy-duty performance are required. Typical use cases include:
- Inward-opening gates:Inward-opening gates frequently require a Z-style offset to position the maglock correctly relative to the armature plate; this kit was designed precisely for those circumstances.
- Non-standard transoms and frames:Older properties and bespoke installations often present transoms or frames that dont align with a maglocks default mounting footprint. The adjustable reach and dual plate options simplify retrofit work.
- External commercial entrances:High-traffic shopfronts, offices and service yards that need a robust, weatherproof maglock mount benefit from the anodised aluminium construction.
- High-security residential gates:Where a powerful holding force is required but the gate geometry is unconventional, the BKEX1200ZL allows installers to achieve the necessary mechanical alignment without resorting to bulky custom fabrication.
- Coastal and exposed sites:The anodised finish is advantageous where salt spray and damp conditions accelerate corrosion of untreated steel brackets.
Practical installation tips for these scenarios:
- Always confirm compatibility with the EXML1200-GATE series before fitting and check magnet/armature size references.
- Use the extra Z reach to test alignment before final fixing — a few millimetres can be the difference between full holding force and reduced performance.
- Ensure fixings into the substrate (gate post, frame, masonry) are rated for the load and appropriate anchors or bolts are used.
- Isolate lock power during mechanical installation and follow electrical safety regulations when connecting power and control wiring.
When choosing a maglock mounting solution you typically consider fixed brackets, adjustable brackets in different materials (stainless steel or galvanised steel) and manufactured kits specific to particular maglock models. How does the BKEX1200ZL compare?
- Versus fixed steel brackets:Fixed brackets are simple and often cheaper but lack the adjustability needed for inward-opening gates or offset transoms. The BKEX1200ZLs adjustable Z option removes the need for on-site fabrication and reduces installation time.
- Versus stainless steel or galvanised steel brackets:Steel options can offer higher raw tensile strength, but the BKEX1200ZLs anodised aluminium provides excellent corrosion resistance with a lighter weight and easier handling. For most external maglock installations supporting the EXML1200-GATE, the aluminium bracket offers a balanced combination of performance and longevity.
- Versus brand-specific fixed kits:Some vendors offer single-orientation mounting kits specific to a maglock. The advantage of the BKEX1200ZL is its dual-orientation kit, meaning one product can cover both Z and L mounting needs, reducing SKUs and simplifying procurement for installers who manage varied sites.
- Value perspective:With a suggested retail price of around $29.99 and built to support a 1200 lb maglock, the BKEX1200ZL represents good value compared with heavier, more expensive stainless solutions — especially when factoring in labour savings from reduced on-site modification.
While individual experiences vary by site and installer skill, aggregated feedback from installers and end users highlights some common positives:
- "Easy to adapt on-site — the Z reach saved time on a retrofit that would otherwise need a custom plate." (Installer feedback)
- "Durable finish — after months of coastal exposure there was no sign of corrosion and the maglock continued to perform reliably." (Site maintenance feedback)
- "Compact and straightforward to fit, good value compared to some heavy stainless kits we considered." (Contractor note)
These impressions reflect typical scenarios where the brackets adjustability and anodised finish produce real installation and lifecycle benefits. Prospective buyers should still ensure the bracket suits their specific maglock model and site conditions.
For installers and specifiers working with RGL 1200 lb maglocks, theRGL BKEX1200ZLoffers a pragmatic, cost-effective and robust mounting solution. Its adjustable Z and L plates reduce the need for custom fabrications, the anodised aluminium construction provides excellent outdoor resistance without unnecessary weight, and the dimensions and reach are tailored to the EXML1200-GATE series.
Whether youre retrofitting an older gate, installing on an inward-opening leaf, or specifying mounts for new external access control points, the BKEX1200ZL provides the flexibility and reliability required for heavy-duty maglock applications. Ensure competent installation, correct fixings and alignment for full rated holding force, and youll have a mounting kit designed to deliver consistent performance in demanding external environments.