Too many posts to quote directly, but thanks for the feedback.
To highlight a couple general thoughts w/ a response...
Yes, I understand that things could go wrong down inside the lock that a keypad won't fix, however my thinking was that the most susceptible component imo also happens to be the least expensive and easiest to replace component, the keypad. Therefore, I was thinking, and wanting to discuss this logic as it related to general failures, as well as the EMP failure.
Why EMP failure? Well, as stated, I don't know much about them, and while it is a low risk issue w/ potentially deadly consequences (nuclear) more important than the EMP part of the equation, there are non nuclear EMPs in existence now, and from my experience technology changes, so this may become a more prevalent risk at some point in the future. Also, over the years, I've seen a number of comments from other users saying they would not get electronic locks for this reason, or I would have never thought about it, so while hypothetical, I was thinking about others that may have these locks, or others that may be concerned about the issue, as well as my own possible needs.
As to why people would not just get a mechanical lock in the first place, I can't speak for everyone, but sometimes you inherit things, or stumble across a steal/deal on something, and so while one may desire a mechanical lock, they end up w/ an electronic lock. So again, to anyone that may have an electronic lock, I was thinking the keypad might be a point of failure, and I didn't realize it was so cheap to have a replacement on hand, and thought it might be a good idea for anyone interested.
I have simplex locks on my quick access boxes, I have one quick access long gun box that has a keypad and back up key, but I have another RSC that has electronic lock only, hence my questions.
As for how to replace it, I'm looking into that now, but I can physically remove the keypad from the safe to change the battery, and there's a cord attached to it. I think in theory, I could take the backing off the lock and probably unplug the keypad from the safe, and plug in the new keypad if needed, w/out calling a service person, or possibly waiting several days for a replacement (assuming time of peace, or wait could be longer, or indefinite). Again, this is my theory, and am trying to confirm it.
I don't see this as a security risk really, as someone commented, since the lock is inside the safe. The keypad is merely an input device, and whether or not a keypad is removable is irrelevant to how someone might 'hack' into the lock. I mean, swapping out a keypad is just swapping out something to press the buttons with to let the lock know you have the combination. Wrong tampering w/ this device or wires and it will throw the re-lockers (I believe correct term), in theory, making it inaccessible if tampering. I think it's a good idea to have a removable keypad and battery outside the safe, from a maintenance perspective, to allow for the owner to operate and possibly fix something simple like a battery or keypad failure, w/out having to have the door open (although recommended when possible), in case of failure while it's locked.
Thanks for the feedback, and the jokes, it's all good.