Passage Door Hardware: The Complete Guide for Residential and Commercial Use

When designing or renovating interior spaces, the importance of selecting the right door hardware cannot be overstated. Among the various categories available, passage door hardware stands out as a fundamental component that affects both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Whether you're working on a commercial project or updating your home, understanding the passage door handles and their applications will help you make informed decisions.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore what passage door hardware is, how it differs from other door functions, and which types best suit your specific needs. Read on to discover how the right passage lockset can transform your interior spaces.

What Is Passage Door Hardware?

The passage door hardware refers to a specialized category of architectural fittings designed specifically for interior doors that require no locking capability. Unlike privacy or keyed entry systems, a passage door handle operates on a straightforward principle: it allows anyone to open and close the door at any time without restriction or the need for keys or locking buttons.

Common applications for passage door lever systems include hallways connecting different rooms, closet doors, pantry entrances, and transitions between living spaces such as from a dining room into a kitchen. In commercial settings, passage doors facilitate smooth traffic flow through corridors, conference room entrances that don't require security, and other high-traffic interior pathways. The absence of locking mechanisms means fewer points of potential failure and a longer operational lifespan.

Different Types of Door Functions

Doors serve various purposes, and their hardware reflects that. It’s necessary to understand different door functions before you pick the right one for each room. Each category serves distinct purposes and offers specific features suited to different applications.

1. Passage Function

The passage door handle sets represent the most straightforward door hardware category. As discussed earlier, this hardware that has no locking and is used where continuous access is required. Terms such as door passage lever or passage lever door handles are commonly used.

2. Privacy Function

Privacy door hardware introduces a basic locking mechanism, typically a push-button or thumbturn on the interior side. These are commonly found in bathrooms and bedrooms where temporary privacy is needed but high security isn't required. Unlike door passage lever systems, privacy locks can be engaged from inside but can usually be overridden from the outside using a small tool or pin, making them ideal for residential applications where emergency access might be necessary.

3. Dummy Function

Dummy hardware is stationary and doesn't operate a latch at all. These door handle passage fixtures are purely decorative and are typically used on doors that remain permanently open, closet doors that use magnetic catches, or as the inactive handle on double doors where only one side needs to be operable. While they look identical to functional passage lever door handles, dummy handles don't rotate or engage any mechanical components.

4. Keyed Function

Keyed entry systems offer the highest level of security, requiring a physical key to unlock from the outside. These are standard for exterior doors but may also be used for sensitive interior spaces like offices, storage rooms, or areas requiring controlled access. Unlike passage door lever options, keyed locks incorporate complex pin tumbler cylinders and are significantly more expensive due to their intricate mechanisms and security features.

Function Type	Locking Capability	Typical Applications	Key Features
Passage	None	Hallways, closets, pantries, connecting rooms	Free access, simple mechanism, high durability
Privacy	Interior lock with emergency release	Bathrooms, bedrooms	Push-button or thumbturn, can be overridden
Dummy	None (non-functional)	Decorative use, inactive door panels	Fixed handles, aesthetic purposes only
Keyed Entry	Full keyed security	Exterior doors, secure interior rooms	Requires physical key, maximum security

Which Types of Passage Door Hardware Should You Choose?

1. Mortise Locks for Passage Door Applications

For many commercial or heavy-duty interior doors, the choice of a mortise lock system—even for a passage function door—can deliver superior durability and performance. A mortise lock requires a pocket (or “mortise”) to be cut into the door edge, and the mechanism is housed within that pocket. This robust construction translates into longevity and reliable operation. When selecting a passage door mortise lock, you are essentially choosing a heavy-duty solution that supports frequent use, making it a smart choice for schools, hospitals, hotels or high-traffic office buildings.

At Camax Hardware we manufacture ANSI-certified mortise locks and CE-certified mortise locks that are ideally suited to passage door use. Our mortise lock units with passage function are engineered to meet rigorous commercial standards while enabling the smooth un-hindered operation characteristic of passage hardware.

2. Lever Handles for Passage Door Use

Lever handles are increasingly preferred for passage door hardware because they require minimal effort to operate. Instead of needing a fine twist of the wrist or strong grip, a lever can be pressed down with a forearm or elbow—valuable when hands are full or in emergency egress scenarios. In addition, lever handles align with accessible design principles, satisfying regulatory frameworks inspired by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and making them ideal for commercial buildings.

Camax offers a wide range of commercial door handles, including models that conform to EN1906 Class 4 and Class 3 specifications, in a selection of finishes to match architectural aesthetics. Whether you are looking for black passage door handles, satin stainless lever sets, or designer finishes for upscale interiors, our product portfolio delivers choice and quality.

Why Choose Camax to Manufacture Your Commercial Passage Door Hardware?

When you partner with Camax, you’re working with a manufacturer that understands commercial architectural hardware inside and out. Since 2006 we have specialized in OEM/ODM manufacturing of high-performance door hardware, offering passage door hardware and comprehensive commercial hardware solutions for markets around the world.

Our certifications include ANSI, BHMA, CE and UL compliance, ensuring that both our mortise locks and passage lever sets meet stringent global standards.

We also provide tailored service, from design concept through to finished product and logistics, helping you integrate passage door hardware seamlessly into your architectural specification. With Camax you benefit from:

High-quality production equipment and tight quality control

Wide finish choices and custom branding (OEM/ODM) to match design intent

Full documentation and testing for commercial projects (fire ratings, heavy duty cycles, etc)

Whether you need a robust commercial passage door lever, a passage door mortise lock, or a complete hardware set for a building project, Camax stands ready to assist with expert advice and custom solutions.

Contact Camax and Manufacturer Passage Door Hardware for Your Projects

Selecting appropriate passage door hardware represents a critical decision that impacts functionality, aesthetics, compliance, and long-term maintenance costs. By understanding the fundamental differences between passage, privacy, dummy, and keyed functions, you can specify the right hardware for each application within your project. Recognizing the engineering advantages of mortise lock systems and the accessibility benefits of lever handles enables informed decisions that serve both immediate needs and long-term performance requirements.

Ready to upgrade your doors with high-quality passage door hardware? Contact Camax today and let our team help you choose the ideal passage door handles, passage lever sets or mortise locks for your building. Your next project deserves hardware that works as beautifully as it looks.