Controlling Locking
The SQL Server query optimizer usually chooses the correct isolation level, including the type of lock and the lock mode. You should override this behavior only if thorough testing has shown that a different approach is preferable. Keep in mind that by setting an isolation level, you will have an impact on the locks that will held, the conflicts that will cause blocking, and the duration of your locks. Your isolation level is in effect for an entire session, and you should choose the one that provides the data consistency required by your application. Table-level locking hints can be used to change the default locking behavior only when necessary. Disallowing a locking level can adversely affect concurrency.
Lock Hints
Transact-SQL ...
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