Tubular vs Cylindrical

[darklide]

Ok both are cylindrical so what exactly is the difference between the two then

[jpb06080]

no, top is cylindrical, bottom tubular. notice that the latch in the bottom one extends through the 2 1/8" hole drilled in the door. On the top image, the latch just barely reaches that hole, where it connects to a spring chamber inside the chassis. Its a much beefier, more solid and long lasting design and is standard for almost all commercial grade knobs and levers. The only thing I can think of that is commercial grade but uses a tubular design is sargent 8 line. If its a residential application either one should be fine, but youll get more life out of a heavier duty knob obviously.

[gswimfrk]

I, personally would recommend the cylindrical lock over the tubular lock because of 1. the concealed screws, 2. Durability, 3. Easier to re-key, 4. Lock parts are more universal and replacement parts are more widely found, 5. Less subject to torque damage, 6. More durable springs (if it's a lever then the lock will suffer less lever sag as the lock set ages).

Tubular Cons: If installation simplicity is paramount and security is not, then i would go with the tubular design. Tubular locks are more probable to torque damage due to their canter axle. In addition tubular locks have less durable roses.

Cylindrical Cons: Substantially more expensive, back sets are not adjustable (independent sizes per latch), if its a lever then through bolts must be drilled.

I would recommend Cylindrical locks for all exterior door applications due to the increased durability and security.

Good Luck
-Ivan