Rim Panic Device Guide: Types, Trim & Installation
A rim panic device is surface mounted to the door's face, with the latch protruding from the device itself rather than the door edge. It is the most common type of exit device — easiest to install, works on single and double doors, and supports the widest range of exterior trim and alarm options.
Key Features
- Surface mounted — no door prep or mortising required
- Built-in deadlatch prevents forced retraction from the exterior
- Compatible with a wide range of exterior trim options
- Most common type for alarmed panic devices
- Works on single doors, double doors with mullion, and double doors without mullion
Exterior Trim
Rim exit device exterior trim options
Rim exit devices can be equipped with a variety of exterior trim depending on the access control function required:
Pull Plate with Rim Cylinder — Key entry from outside, push bar exit from inside. Most common exterior trim choice.
Classroom Lever — Outside locked or unlocked by key only. Inside always free. For school and office corridor doors.
Night Latch Lever — Key retracts latch from outside. Used where after-hours key access is needed.
Passage Lever — Non-locking, free entry from both sides. For doors that must remain accessible at all times.
Door Configurations
Rim exit devices work on 3 door types
Single Doors
Strike mounts to the door frame.
Double Doors With Mullion
Strike mounts to the center mullion.
Double Doors Without Mullion
Strike mounts to the inactive door, secured by a vertical rod exit device.
Sizing
Measuring for a rim exit device
The key measurement is door width. Many models are field sizable — cut to fit within a specified range. The two most common size ranges are:
30" – 36" Door Width
Standard single door width range. Most common for commercial interior doors.
38" – 48" Door Width
Wider commercial and institutional doors. Common on main entry and assembly doors.
Need to cut a device to fit? See our Panic Device Basics guide for field sizing instructions.
Alarm Applications
Rim devices & alarmed panic hardware
Rim panic devices are the most common type for alarmed applications. The larger push rail housing provides more interior space for alarm circuitry, making them the preferred choice for doors requiring integrated alarms. See our Alarm Panic Device Guide for full details on alarmed exit hardware.
Need help choosing?
Not sure which rim exit device is right for your application? Contact us with your door measurements and we'll help you find the right device. Browse our full panic device collection or return to the Help Center.