Best Rim Lock Night Latches: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Bespoke Fittings Specialist
The humble rim lock, or night latch as it is more commonly known (often referred to generically as a 'Yale lock'), is a staple of British front doors. It offers convenience—shut the door and it's locked—but choosing the wrong one can lead to security vulnerabilities or, quite frequently, locking yourself out due to a faulty snib.
Working on properties across York, from Micklegate terraces to suburban semis, I often see night latches that have been poorly fitted or are simply too flimsy for the heavy timber doors they are mounted on. Old timber moves with the seasons; it swells in winter and shrinks in summer. A cheap latch with poor tolerances will jam the moment the door expands.
In this review, I've selected three rim locks that cover different needs: a budget replacement for internal or low-risk doors, a robust quality option for main entrances, and a versatile silver option ideal for gates and outbuildings.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Automatic Deadlocking Claims"
"Marketing suggests the lock is impregnable once the door is shut."
Most standard night latches are for convenience, not high security. Unless it is a BS3621 rated lock, you should always use a 5-lever mortice deadlock alongside it for overnight insurance cover.
The Spec: "Universal Fit"
"The box says it fits all wooden doors."
In older York properties, the door 'stile' (the vertical timber edge) can be narrow. You must check the 'backset'—the distance from the edge of the door to the centre of the keyhole. It's usually 40mm or 60mm. Buying the wrong size means filling holes and re-drilling.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
Rim Night Latch 60mm – Polished Brass Door Lock
Quickdraw
If you are replacing an existing lock on a budget, or securing a shared house internal door, this Quickdraw latch is a solid choice. It features a standard 60mm backset and a classic polished brass finish that suits most traditional panel doors.
The Good
- Very affordable replacement option
- Includes snib button to hold latch back (prevents lockouts)
- Traditional brass finish suits Victorian aesthetic
The Bad
- Lightweight construction compared to premium brands
- Brass coating may tarnish over time in exposed coastal or damp locations
Installer Tip:
When installing the internal knob, ensure the connecting bar from the cylinder is cut to the correct length. If it's too long, it will bind against the casing and the lock will feel stiff or jam.
Priced at £7.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonSecurity Night Latch with Heavy Duty Rim Cylinder in Polished Brass
EUROART
For a main entrance door, you want something with a bit more weight to it. This EUROART model offers a more robust build quality than budget alternatives. The machining is smoother, meaning less resistance when turning the key—crucial for longevity in daily use.
The Good
- Heavy duty rim cylinder feels more secure
- Smoother internal lever action than cheaper knobs
- High-quality polished brass finish
The Bad
- Slightly pricier, but worth it for a main door
- Requires precise chiselling for the staple (keep) to sit flush
Installer Tip:
Lubrication is key for longevity. Don't use oil or WD40 inside the cylinder as it collects dust and grit. Use a dry graphite powder to keep the tumbler pins moving freely.
Priced at £19.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonHeavy Duty Rim Lock Door Latch Polished Silver
Garden Mile
Not every door in York is a brass-adorned Victorian front door. For back gates, sheds, or modern apartments requiring a silver/chrome aesthetic, this Garden Mile latch is the problem solver. It's versatile enough for indoor and outdoor use.
The Good
- Modern silver finish works well with chrome door furniture
- Versatile - suitable for garden gates and sheds
- Surface mounted for straightforward installation
The Bad
- Silver finish may not suit heritage properties
- For outdoor gates, ensure the timber is treated behind the lock
Installer Tip:
When fitting this to a garden gate, the gap between the gate and the post is often larger than on a front door. You may need to fit a hardwood packer (block) behind the staple (the part on the frame) to ensure the latch bolt engages deeply enough for security.
Priced at £11.39 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a night latch and a rim lock?
How do I measure the backset for a replacement lock?
Are these locks sufficient for front door security?
Why does my night latch keep jamming?
Can I install these locks myself?
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