Pull handles offer a convenient pulling solution for access panels, cabinets, machinery, doors and other objects. You can mount them on just about any flat surface. Once mounted, you can then grab or pull them. When shopping for pull handles, however, you may encounter the following terms.
Through Holes
Through holes are round holes on the ends of a pull handle. They are designed to accommodate threaded fasteners. If a pull handle has through holes, you can drive a pair of threaded fasteners through them and into the underlying object. Keep in mind that some pull handles have threaded studs on the ends instead of through holes.
Center to Center
The term “center to center” refers to the distance between a pull handle’s through holes. A center-to-center measurement of 4 inches means the through holes are spaced 4 inches apart. You’ll need to consider this measurement to ensure a perfect fit. The higher a pull handle’s center-to-center measurement, the greater the distance between its through holes.
Mounting Plate
Pull handles are available with and without mounting plates. As the name suggests, mounting plates are flat plates used for mounting. Some of them are square-shaped, whereas others are rectangular-shaped. Regardless, mounting plates consist of flat metal plates on the ends of a pull handle. They feature the through holes or threaded studs that allow for installation.
Clearance
Clearance is the space between a pull handle and the surface on which it’s mounted. It affects how easily, as well as comfortably, you can grip the pull handle. If there’s little or no clearance, you may struggle to grab and hold the pull handle.
Finish
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a pull handle is the finish. The finish is the coating or surface treatment. It affects both the aesthetics and durability of pull handles. Common finishes for pull handles include chrome, brass, nickel and black.
Grip Width
Grip width is the width of a pull handle’s grippable surface. Some pull handles have a completely flat and linear grippable surface, whereas others have an oval-shaped grippable surface. To determine the size of this surface, you can check the grip width. A wide grip width translates into a longer grippable surface, which many people prefer.
Knurled
Some pull handles are knurled. Knurled pull handles are characterized by a textured surface. Rather than featuring a smooth surface, they are textured with a knurled pattern. Knurled pull handles typically offer a better grip than their smooth counterparts.