Best Panic Handles of 2025

Corey Phillips Avatar
Corey Phillips
Last Updated: 31 Jan 2025

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Panic handles are an essential safety feature in buildings, particularly in emergency situations. These handles are designed to provide quick and easy exit access in the event of a fire or other emergency. Panic handles are typically installed on doors that are used as emergency exits, and they allow the door to be opened from the inside with a single motion, without the need for a key or any other special tool. Panic handles come in various designs and can be installed on a wide range of doors, including those made of wood, metal, or glass. They are a must-have for any building owner who wants to ensure the safety of their occupants.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

VEVOR Panic Bar Door Lock with Keys Cover #TOP 1
VEVOR Panic Bar Door Lock with Keys
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Strand Antipanic Push Pad Fire Exit Latch Cover #TOP 2
Strand Antipanic Push Pad Fire Exit Latch
ftb score rating icon 9.7
IRONWALLS Panic Bars for Exit Doors Cover #TOP 3
IRONWALLS Panic Bars for Exit Doors
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Panic Handles

#TOP 1

VEVOR Panic Bar Door Lock with Keys

UL600S
Silver
31''
VEVOR Panic Bar Door Lock with Keys Cover
VEVOR Push Bar Door Locks, Stainless Steel Panic Bars for Exit Doors, with Exterior Lever and 3 Keys, Push Bar Panic Exit Device Door Hardware for Metal Wood Door, for Left and Right Handed Doors

The VEVOR Panic Bar Lock is crafted from durable 304 stainless steel, ensuring rust and corrosion resistance. This sturdy construction meets UL and ANSI standards, giving you confidence in its reliability for high-traffic emergency exits. You can easily push the bar open in emergencies, while external access requires a key, enhancing security. Additionally, the lock automatically secures the door after closing, preventing unauthorised entry, and it features a quick-opening design for constant access during large evacuations.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Easy emergency access
Automatic locking mechanism
Compatible with various doors
Quick installation process
#TOP 2

Strand Antipanic Push Pad Fire Exit Latch

Strand Hardware
PH3520320
Grey
Medium
Strand Antipanic Push Pad Fire Exit Latch Cover
Fire Exit Push Pad Panic Latch - PH3520320 - Strand Antipanic Single Push Pad Panic Latch

The Strand Antipanic Push Pad is designed for emergency exits, providing a reliable and easy-to-use solution in critical situations. Its modular design ensures that it can be reversed for versatile installation, accommodating various door types. This latch is also supplied with striker plates, specifically for timber doors, making installation straightforward. Additionally, it is certified to EN 179:2008, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, giving you peace of mind when it comes to fire safety in your premises.

What We Like
Easy to use in emergencies
Versatile reversible design
Includes striker plates
Compliance with safety standards
#TOP 3

IRONWALLS Panic Bars for Exit Doors

BI0CM06R862
Silver (2 Packs)
27.5 inch
IRONWALLS Panic Bars for Exit Doors Cover
IRONWALLS Panic Bars for Exit Doors with Handle 2-Pack, 27.5” Commercial Door Push Bar Panic Exit Device with Exterior Lever, Stainless Steel Emergency Panic Exit Bar for 27.5”-41” Doors

The IRONWALLS Panic Bars provide a reliable and sturdy solution for emergency exits. With universal compatibility, these bars fit most doors between 27.5” and 41” wide, accommodating both left and right openings for your convenience. Constructed from high-hardness stainless steel, they withstand significant force and endure over 300,000 operations, ensuring durability. In emergencies, you can easily open the push bar with minimal pressure, enhancing safety when it matters most.

What We Like
Universal compatibility for various doors
Durable stainless steel construction
Effortless operation in emergencies
Automatic locking for security
#TOP 4

Hoppe AR883 Fire Door Exit Push Pad

AR883-SE
Hoppe AR883 Fire Door Exit Push Pad Cover
Hoppe AR883 Arrone Panic Emergency Hardware Fire Door Exit Reversible Push Pad

The Hoppe AR883 Push Pad is designed for emergency situations, featuring a reversible push pad that allows for easy access from either side of a fire door. Its silver enamel finish not only looks sleek but also adds durability. Rated for one hour of fire resistance, this hardware ensures safety during critical moments. Furthermore, its universal design means it can be installed on left or right opening doors, providing flexibility for various settings and making it a convenient choice for users.

What We Like
Reversible push pad design
One hour fire rated
Universal installation
Sleek silver enamel finish
#TOP 5

HOPPE AR880 Arrone Single Panic Bolt

AR880-SE
HOPPE AR880 Arrone Single Panic Bolt Cover
Hoppe AR880 Arrone Single Panic Bolt CE Marked

The HOPPE AR880 Panic Bolt is designed for safety and convenience. It features single panic hardware, making it ideal for quick exits during emergencies. This bolt is suitable for doors up to 2440mm in height and 1220mm in width, ensuring versatility for various door sizes. With a 1-hour fire rating, you can trust it to provide reliable performance in critical situations. Made from durable zinc and finished in silver enamel, this product not only meets safety standards but also enhances the aesthetic of your doors.

What We Like
Easy emergency exit
Versatile door size compatibility
1-hour fire rating
Durable zinc construction
Stylish silver enamel finish
#TOP 6

BEAMNOVA Silver Push Bar Panic Exit Device

Silver
BEAMNOVA Silver Push Bar Panic Exit Device Cover
BEAMNOVA Silver Push Bar Door Lock Panic Exit Device with Exterior Lever,104cm/41 Commercial Emergency Panic Bar for Door Width 104-134 cm/41"-53" Metal Wood Exit Door

The BEAMNOVA Panic Exit Bar is a robust emergency exit solution made from heavy-duty stainless steel, ensuring durability and resistance to high temperatures. You can easily open it by pushing the rod or using the spin button, which guarantees quick access during emergencies. This device fits door widths between 41"-53" and can be trimmed to size for smaller doors, making it versatile for various locations. Additionally, it’s suitable for both metal and wood doors, providing security while allowing safe exits when needed.

What We Like
High-quality stainless steel construction
Easy emergency access
Fits a range of door sizes
Suitable for various door types
#TOP 7

IRONWALLS 27.5” Stainless Steel Panic Exit Bar

BI00TPS7020
Black
Door Push Bar
IRONWALLS 27.5” Stainless Steel Panic Exit Bar Cover
IRONWALLS Door Push Bar Panic Exit Device, 27.5” Stainless Steel Commercial Emergency Exit Panic Bar Handle Black, Emergency Exit Door Hardware for 27.5”-41” Doors

The IRONWALLS Panic Exit Bar is an essential safety device designed for commercial use. It fits most wood and metal doors between 27.5" and 41" wide, making it versatile for various door types. Constructed from high-hardness stainless steel, it offers impressive durability, withstanding over 1300N of force. In emergencies, it allows for a quick escape through a simple push or a spin of the button. Additionally, the bar automatically locks when the door closes, enhancing security and preventing unauthorised entry.

What We Like
High compatibility with various doors
Durable stainless steel construction
Easy emergency exit access
Automatic locking for security
#TOP 8

Exidor 297 Emergency Fire Exit Push Pad

Exidor
PH.297.SIL
Silver
Exidor 297 Emergency Fire Exit Push Pad Cover
Exidor 297 Emergency Fire Exit Push Pad Panic Latch for Single Door (Silver)

The Exidor 297 Panic Latch is designed to meet BS EN 179 standards, ensuring safety in workplace emergency exits. It is suitable for both left and right-handed doors, providing versatility for various users. This product has been tested and certified by an independent test house, guaranteeing its reliability. Additionally, it is CE marked for safety and certified for use on fire doors, giving you peace of mind during emergencies. You will also receive a self-adhesive sign to clearly indicate the exit point, enhancing visibility for anyone needing to exit quickly.

What We Like
Meets safety standards
Versatile for door orientations
Tested and certified
CE marked for safety
Includes exit sign
#TOP 9

IRONWALLS Commercial Emergency Panic Exit Device

BI00TPS7249
Silver
27.5 inch
IRONWALLS Commercial Emergency Panic Exit Device Cover
IRONWALLS Surface Vertical Rod Exit Device, 27.5” Commercial Emergency Panic Exit Device Door Push Bar Door Lock, Stainless Steel Panic Bar with Top Rod Locking, Panic Hardware for 27”-41” Wide Doors

The IRONWALLS Panic Exit Device features an upgraded single point top latching design that allows for easy use and accessibility, especially for wheelchair users. Its wide compatibility means it can fit various door sizes, making it versatile for different installations. Constructed from strong stainless steel, this device ensures durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. Additionally, it allows for quick escapes while automatically locking when the door closes, enhancing security by preventing unauthorised access.

What We Like
Easy wheelchair access
Durable stainless steel design
Quick exit for emergencies
Versatile for various door sizes
#TOP 10

IRONWALLS Panic Exit Device with Keyed Lever

PushBarPanicExitDevice-275SS
Silver
IRONWALLS Panic Exit Device with Keyed Lever Cover
IRONWALLS Push Bar Panic Exit Device with Exterior Lever Keyed Alike, 2-Pack 27.5” Stainless Steel Panic Bar Lock Set for Commercial Door, Fire Emergency Exit Door Panic Hardware for Hotel, Hospital

The IRONWALLS Panic Exit Device is designed for 27.5"-41" wide doors, making it versatile for various installations. Its robust stainless steel construction ensures it can withstand significant external forces, providing peace of mind in high-traffic areas. In emergencies, you will appreciate the ease of operation, as a light push or spin button rotation allows for quick exits. Additionally, the automatic locking feature enhances security, ensuring that only those with a key can access the door from the outside.

What We Like
Fits various door sizes
Sturdy stainless steel construction
Easy emergency exit
Automatic locking for security
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a panic lock?

A panic lock (also called a panic bar, a crash bar, or a panic device) is used to provide quick unlocking of a door in an emergency situation. ... Pushing on the bar will release the lock, making it easy to push the door outward and escape to the outside.

2. What is panic hardware for doors?

An exit device – sometimes called a Panic Device or a Crash Bar – is mechanical door hardware operated from the inside of an outswing exit door through the use of a crossbar or push rail and extends at least halfway across its width.

3. How does panic hardware work?

Panic hardware is a door component that was designed to allow fast and unencumbered exit from a doorway. ... You simply push a rod, a bar or other activator, the latch mechanism is retracted and you are able to push the door open.

Editor's Notes

During our panic handle research, we found 82 panic handle products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 2,543 customer reviews through our big data system to write the panic handles list. We found that most customers choose panic handles with an average price of £167.72.

The panic handles are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of panic handles, including VEVOR, Strand Hardware, IRONWALLS, HOPPE, BEAMNOVA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 65 consumers with an average rating of 4.1.

Written by
Corey Phillips Avatar

Corey Philips is an electrician and lighting expert. He graduated from the University of Birmingham in 2012 with a Bachelor's degree in electrical and electronics engineering. Corey is a specialist contractor in lights. He sells and installs and recommends lights and lamp sheds, and other lights accessories. Aside from that, Corey is vast in installing and maintaining electrical appliances like air conditioners, water heaters, and the likes.