Mortice Knobs

Mortice knobs are designed to work with internal mortice latches or locks fitted inside the door, while rim knobs are surface-mounted and used with rim locks.

We recommend at least a 3-inch (76mm) tubular mortice latch. This helps prevent your knuckles from catching on the door frame when turning the knob.

Some mortice door knobs can technically be used on timber fire doors when paired with a correctly rated fire door latch or fire-rated mortice lock. However, it’s generally not recommended, especially in settings where the door also has a door closer fitted. Turning a door knob can require more effort than using a lever handle, and in situations like this, children, elderly users, or people with limited grip strength may struggle to operate the door safely and easily. Always check with your installer or refer to product specifications for suitability.

Popular UK finishes include Polished Brass, Antique Brass, Polished Chrome, and Satin Nickel.

Some mortice knobs, especially traditional or unsprung designs, can be more difficult to turn compared to lever handles. This can be an issue for elderly users, children, or anyone with arthritis or limited hand strength. It’s also worth noting that some mortice knobs come with a single spring, while others have no internal springs at all, meaning the turning force relies entirely on the spring strength of your latch. If your latch has a strong or heavy spring, this can make the knob feel overly stiff and hard to operate—especially when your hands are full (like when carrying shopping bags).

To help reduce resistance and improve ease of use, we recommend using a light-action tubular mortice latch and, where possible, choosing a knob design with some internal spring assistance. Professional installation also helps ensure correct alignment and smooth operation.