Abstract: A reversible latch bolt and lock bolt assembly, where the latch bolt has a spring mounted latch bolt member with a slanted contact face. The latch bolt member can be rotated 180.degree. about its horizontal lengthwise axis to position the slanted contact face in either of two orientations. An outer cover plate can be rotated about its vertical center axis to properly receive the latch bolt in either of two positions. Thus, the same latch bolt and lock bolt assembly can be utilized in a door which opens in either an inside or an outside direction. Further, the operating knobs and push buttons are made reversible so that the assembly can be arranged in four different positional combinations.

Abstract: A latching assembly having a retractable latch bolt and a slide bar which retracts the latch bolt by moving either forwardly or rearwardly from an intermediate position. The latching assembly has a rotatably mounted locking rod that rotates 90.degree. between a locking and an unlocking position. The assembly is arranged with a "panic release" system, in that with the locking rod in its locked position, it is possible to push an "inside" button or cylinder forwardly so as to move the locking rod to at least a partially released position to permit the latch bolt to be retracted. Thus, the latch bolt can be retracted from the inside location whether the locking rod is in its locking or unlocking position, but cannot be retracted from the outside location when the locking rod is set in its locked position.

Abstract: Latch sets must be fitted with a flat face of the latch bolt parallel to a major door face such that the bolt is correctly received in the door frame bolt recess. Latch sets comprise the handles, actuating mechanism, and latch bolt case including the bolt. Here, the latch bolt case is adapted for correct alignment of the latch bolt flat face when the latch bolt case is positioned in a latch bolt case passageway. The latch bolt case is provided with a self-retaining non-cylindrical end portion to avoid the need for recessing the door edge for a latch bolt case plate. Instead, a jig is provided for guiding the case into a retained position within the passageway in which it is a progressive force fit.