6-minute read · Commercial hardware buying guide
Start an exit-device order with three decisions: how it latches, how people enter from outside, and which listing the door requires. The push bar is only one part of that order.
This guide explains the common configurations and the small components that are easy to miss. Use it when replacing existing panic hardware or preparing an exit-device parts list.
Identify rim, mortise, or vertical rods.
Choose the required handle and key operation.
Check trim, cylinder, strike, and accessories.
In this guide
Shop this guide: Exit Devices and Accessories · Cylinders Cores and Keying · Power Supplies and Transformers
Know the parts you are buying
Panic hardware releases a door through a push bar or pushpad. Fire exit hardware is also listed for use on fire doors. Which one your opening requires depends on the door and project requirements.
- Device: the push-side mechanism and its latching arrangement.
- Strike: the fitting that receives and holds the latch.
- Exterior trim: the outside lever, pull, or other operating hardware.
- Cylinder: the keyed component used by the specified outside or alarm function.
An “exit-only” configuration describes the absence of outside operating trim in that configuration. If people need keyed entry, include the compatible trim and cylinder requirements in the order.
1. Identify where the device latches
| Type | What to look for | What to match |
|---|---|---|
| Rim | A latch on the door face engages a frame or center-post strike. | Device series, strike, mounting space, and outside trim |
| Mortise | A lock case fits into a pocket in the door edge. | Door-edge cutout, case, handing, trim, and cylinder |
| Surface vertical rod | Visible rods connect the bar to top and/or bottom latching points. | Rod arrangement, door height, and strikes |
| Concealed vertical rod | The rod mechanism is inside the door. | Exact series, internal preparation, and height options |
On pairs, identify any mullion—the center post between the leaves—and record how each leaf closes and latches. A photograph of the bar alone may leave out the part that determines the replacement.
2. Check the door and required listing
Record the door width, height, material, mounting holes, and full device model. On a narrow-stile aluminum door, the stile is the narrow vertical section where the hardware mounts; its available space matters.
For a fire door, specify the required fire exit hardware configuration. Mechanical dogging is a feature that holds the latch retracted; it is not available on fire exit hardware. Removing a dogging feature does not give ordinary panic hardware a fire listing. See Allegion's comparison when checking the required device.
Shop products for this guide
Explore current exit-device configurations after identifying your door and latch type. Read the exact supplied scope on each product page; outside trim, cylinders, and electrical parts may require separate selection.
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3. Describe what should happen on the outside
Write the requirement in everyday language before choosing a trim function. For example: “Staff enter with a key, and the outside stays secured afterward,” or “A manager must be able to leave the outside lever unlocked during opening hours.” Those are different operating needs.
Match the trim to the device's approved series, door handing, thickness, and cylinder arrangement. A lever that looks right can still use a different connection or function.
4. Read the words that tell you what is included
| Listing phrase | What it means for your order |
|---|---|
| Less trim | Select the compatible outside operating hardware separately if required. |
| Less cylinder / less core | Select the specified keyed component and keying separately. |
| Exit only | Check what is needed if the opening also requires outside entry. |
| Electric latch retraction | Include the required power, wiring, and control scope. |
Confirm the device's permitted door-width range before ordering or planning a field cut. A nominal 36-inch device has model-specific limits, particularly with alarms or electrical options.
Your exit-device order checklist
- Door location, width, height, material, and single or paired layout.
- Full device model, latch type, finish, and required listing.
- Correct strike, rods, mullion, and mounting accessories where required.
- Outside trim, handing, operating function, and cylinder/core.
- Keying and the quantity of each separately supplied component.
- Any alarm, monitoring, power, and control requirements.
For multiple doors, group these items under each door number. It makes quote comparisons, receiving, and installation staging easier.
Additional exit devices, trim and repair components
Compare additional complete devices, outside trim, and cylinders. Match each component to the exact device series, function, and door preparation.
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Explore the full catalog for more options
Frequently asked questions
Does every exit device come with a cylinder and outside handle?
No. Use the listing's supplied scope and packing information to identify what is included and what needs a separate order.
Can the same device be used on wood, hollow metal, and aluminum doors?
Check the exact model's applications, mounting space, fasteners, and template. Door construction can change the required configuration.
Is an alarmed bar the same as controlled entry?
No. An alarm provides an alert; controlled entry depends on the selected lock/trim function and any electrical controls. State which behavior your project needs.
Resources for planning and verification
- Allegion: panic hardware versus fire exit hardware — Understand the significance of the required device listing.
- Allegion: power-loss behavior — Review the distinction between secure-side behavior and egress.
- Steel Door Institute assembly inspection guidance — Check the wider assembly considerations when replacing rated hardware.
- OpenAxis exit-device collection — Compare available devices and related accessories.
Choose the device and complete the entry hardware
Shop the exit-device catalog above for a known configuration. For a complete quote, include photos, door size, latch type, outside entry needs, and any fire-rating or electrical requirements.
