Are you looking to buy a swing handle? Swing handles offer a convenient latching solution for doors, cabinets, toolboxes, control panels and other surfaces. As their name suggests, they are designed to swing open. Pulling and turning a swing handle will open the surface in which it’s installed. While most swing handles use a similar method of operation, however, they are available in different types.
Lock Type
You should consider the lock type when choosing a swing handle. Some swing handles feature a built-in lock that requires a key to open. Other swing handles require the use of a padlock.
Swing handles with a built-in lock typically come with a key. You can lock or unlock them using this key. Those that require a padlock, on the other hand, feature a metal shackle. After closing them, you can place a padlock through this metal shackle to lock the swing handle.
Lock Body Material
In addition to the lock type, you should consider the lock body material when choosing a swing handle. Some of the most common materials in which lock bodies are made include stainless steel and die-cast zinc.
Both stainless steel and die-cast zinc swing handles are strong. Stainless steel is an iron alloy with a relatively high chromium content. Die-cast zinc, in comparison, is zinc that’s smelted and poured into a pressurized mold cavity. While there are nuances between them, stainless steel and die-cast zinc both make excellent materials for swing handle lock bodies.
Color
Swing handles are available in different colors. Among the most popular colors in which they are made include black and chrome. Black swing handles feature a sleek and modern appearance that integrates easily with other black objects and devices. With that said, many people prefer the timeless appearance of chrome swing handles.
Single vs Multi-Point Latching Points
Not all swing handles have a single latching point. You can find swing handles with multiple latching points as well.
Swing handles are essentially latching devices with a handle. They are typically installed flush with the surface of a door or object. Once installed, they will leverage a latching mechanism to keep the door or object closed. While some swing handles have a single latching point, though, others have two or more latching points.
Electronic vs Mechanical
You might be surprised to learn that there are electronic swing handles available. They still feature moving parts — just like mechanical swing handles — but electronic swing handles feature software-controlled locking.