The full grip space behind it.

A whole hand fits behind the handle.

The pull is made with fingers wrapped rather than hooked.

That matters for heavy drawers and stiff doors.

It matters more for reduced hand strength or dexterity.

A pull or knob offers considerably less to grip.

Directly - accessible guidance favours handles usable with a closed fist.

Pinch grips and fine finger control are what guidance seeks to avoid.

A bow or U-handle can be operated with a wrapped hand.

Knobs generally cannot be operated the same way.

Requirements differ between markets and building types.

Where accessibility is specified, handle type is frequently addressed explicitly.

More than aesthetic, though the difference is modest.

A bow's gap is greatest at the centre and reduces towards the fixings.

The hand naturally centres itself.

A U-handle gives the same clearance along its whole length.

That suits gripping anywhere along it.

Longer U-handles suit two-handed use on large doors.

Fixing centres, measured between the centres of the fixing holes.

Not the overall length of the handle.

Standard centres exist and most ranges use them.

That makes handle changes straightforward when centres match.

A different centre distance means new holes in the door.

Measuring before ordering is the whole of the exercise.

It is the consideration people most often forget.

A handle standing well proud is easy to grip and easy to walk into.

In circulation spaces it becomes a snagging point.

Narrow galleys and busy areas are the common problems.

Clothing catches on projecting handles regularly.

Recessed and low-projection handles exist where traffic is the concern.

Into something that can take the leverage they impose.

Longer handles apply real force at their fixings.

A handle bolted through a thin or hollow door needs backing.

Screws into the facing alone will pull out.

Through-bolting spreads the load properly.

On lightweight panel doors, dedicated fittings are required rather than ordinary screws.

For durability and for how the handle feels.

Stainless suits heavy use and wet environments.

Coated finishes wear at the point of most frequent contact.

Metal handles feel cold, which matters in some settings.

Antimicrobial finishes are specified in healthcare environments.

Wear pattern rather than initial appearance is what shows after a couple of years.