What is lock handing?

The handing of a lock is important in order to ensure that the correct side of the door is secure, the levers are oriented properly, and that the door closes properly.  

There are 2 parts to a door and lock handing, the handing (left or right) and the swing of the door (whether it is reversed or standard).  There are 4 different lock handings; left hand (LH), right hand (RH), left hand reverse (LHR) and right hand reverse (RHR).  

There are many ways to determine handing however Allegion recommends the following method:

• Stand on the outside (secure side) of the door
• Note the location of the hinges, not the lock
• If the hinges are on the left, it is a left hand door
• If the hinges are on the right, it is a right hand door
• Next note if the door swings toward you or away from you
• If the door swings away from you, it is a standard swing door
• If the door swings toward you, it is a reverse bevel door  

See the illustration below for examples of how to determine the door handing you need when placing your order.