Traditional Hand Forged Latch Accessories

Staples and Keepers: What Is the Difference?

A staple is fitted over the moving latch bar on the face of a door, guiding it without stopping it from lifting. A keeper is fitted to the frame and receives the end of the bar when the door closes. Before replacing a fitting, identify whether the problem is with the staple, the keeper or their alignment.

Our standard latch keeper and Fine Latch Keeper have different profiles. Check the existing latch and the available dimensions rather than assuming the two are interchangeable.

Screw-On or Knock-In Staples?

Screw-on staples are fixed to the surface of the door using screws. Choose a style that suits your existing latch, such as the Penny End Screw-On Staple for a compatible Suffolk latch, the Arrow End Screw-On Staple for a matching Gothic-style latch or the Fine Screw-On Staple for a Fine Handle latch.

A knock-in staple has legs driven into the timber rather than a screw-on mounting. Check the door construction and thickness, and compare the existing holes and latch-bar clearance before selecting a replacement. Changing from a driven fitting to a screw-on type may require attention to the original fixing holes.

Locking Staples and Privacy Pins

A locking staple has a removable pin, typically attached by a leather lanyard, that prevents the latch bar from rising. It fits on the latch-bar side of the door and offers simple internal privacy, not the security of a purpose-designed entrance lock.

Options include Penny End, Arrow End, Fine and knock-in locking staples. Match the design and fixing method to your existing latch; an ordinary staple and a locking staple are not the same component.

The pin cannot normally be operated from the opposite side of the door. For bathrooms and bedrooms, consider who uses the room and whether emergency access is needed. Our guide to locking a Suffolk latch compares the available privacy arrangements.

Checking Compatibility Before Ordering

Replacement parts that look alike can differ in shape, size and fixing position. Before ordering, check:

• The existing latch type and whether it uses a Penny End, Arrow End or Fine Handle fitting
• Whether the original staple or keeper is screwed on or driven into the timber
• The overall dimensions, fixing positions and clearance around the moving latch bar
• Whether a locking pin needs to be operated from the latch-bar side
• The finish of the existing latch and the fittings around it

Use the dimension drawing on the individual product page where available. If you cannot identify an older latch, photographs and measurements can help us check the replacement before you order. These accessories are sold as individual components; do not assume that a pin, bar or other part is included unless the product specifies it.

Black Beeswax, Pewter and Interior Use

The black beeswax and pewter finishes in this collection are applied to mild-steel fittings. Black beeswax may need occasional maintenance; a pewter appearance does not, by itself, make a fitting suitable for outside use. Follow the care advice for the individual product.

These standard accessories should be treated as indoor hardware. For a gate or exposed outbuilding door, select parts specifically confirmed for exterior use rather than mixing unverified replacements with an outdoor latch.

Matching Latches and Further Advice

For a complete latch, compare our Suffolk latches and Gothic latches. For more detailed identification and fitting guidance, read our traditional latch accessories guide. Browse the wider Traditional Door Hardware range for related fittings.