Door handles might seem like a mundane aspect of everyday life, but they are essential components of our interactions with the built environment. From homes to public spaces, offices to cars, door handles come in various shapes, sizes, and designs. One significant point of differentiation among them is whether they are clutching or rigid. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, and understanding the differences between them can inform decisions in design, usability, and ergonomics.
Clutching
Clutching handles are designed to freely move the handle without engaging the lock.
Preventative Break-Ins: If force is applied to the lock, the mechanism that is connected to the latch disengages from the lever.
Durability: They absorb more abusive power, thus lasting longer.
Maintenance Costs: This effective way of allowing the hardware to last longer can reduce maintenance costs due to their ability to take more abuse.
Rigid
Rigid handles are designed to keep the outside lever in a fixed position when locked.
Cost-Effective: Rigid levers are generally cheaper than clutching levers, thus making them more budget friendly.
Easy to Use & Understand: The fixed state of the locked lever is an easy indicator of whether or not the door is unlocked.
Watch this video by Safe Lock Solutions to learn more.