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Handle Spacing (PZ) Guide for Multipoint Locks: How to Measure and Match Handles
Handle spacing on a multipoint lock describes how the handle spindle and keyhole are positioned in relation to each other on the door. This is the measurement that determines whether replacement handle trim will line up correctly with the lock inside the door.
Why Handle Spacing Matters
Multipoint locks are built as a single internal unit, so the handle and cylinder openings are fixed in place. Your exterior handle trim has to match that spacing to sit correctly on the door. If the spacing is off, the handle or keyhole will land too high or too low to assemble properly.
Is Handle Spacing the Same as PZ?
Yes. Manufacturers commonly label handle spacing as PZ. That is why you will often see “PZ 92” or similar wording in handle listings and installation instructions.
If you want the manufacturer-style definition of PZ and a deeper explanation of how it is referenced in multipoint hardware, you can read the full PZ guide.
How To Check Handle Spacing
This quick check helps confirm whether a replacement handleset will match the existing holes in your door. For best accuracy, measure in millimeters.
- Locate the handle spindle (the square hole the handle turns).
- Locate the center of the keyhole or thumbturn.
- Measure between these two centers to get the handle spacing (PZ).
Common mistake: Measuring from the edge of the handle plate or using screw holes as reference points. For handle spacing, the measurement that matters is based on the spindle and the keyhole center.
Common Handle Spacing Sizes
Multipoint locks are made with fixed handle spacing. Some sizes are very common, while others appear less often on specific door brands or configurations.
Most Common Sizes
Less Common Sizes
More Than Just Spacing
Handle spacing (PZ) helps with alignment, but other measurements also affect fit:
- Screw centers: distance between mounting screws on the backplate.
- Backplate size: overall height and width of the trim plate.
- Backset: how far the lock sits inside the door from the edge.
When You’ll Use This Measurement
Handle spacing is most often checked when replacing exterior handle trim on a multipoint door. It helps you match the new handleset to the lock already installed in the door, without guessing based on appearance.