Is the 3327A reversible?

Yes, the 3327A is non-handed and can be field-reversed to fit both LHR and RHR door applications.

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Authorized Von Duprin 33A Distributor | In Stock & Ready to Ship

Q: What is the minimum stile width for a 33A device?

The 33A Series requires a minimum stile width of 1-3/4 inches, making it perfect for narrow aluminum storefront doors.

Q: Can I add an alarm to an existing 33A device?

Yes, you can install the ALK (Alarm Kit) directly into the device rail for a 100-decibel exit alarm.

Q: What is the difference between the 33A and 35A?

The 33A has a grooved mechanism case, while the 35A has a smooth mechanism case. Internally, they are identical.

Q: How does Cylinder Dogging (CD) work?

Cylinder Dogging replaces the standard hex-key dogging with a mortise cylinder, allowing the door to be dogged open using a standard key.

Expert Field Guide: The Institutional Standard for Aluminum Storefronts

If you're staring at a narrow aluminum door frame in a high-school hallway or a hospital entrance, you know a standard exit bar won't fit without hanging off the edge of the stile. The Von Duprin 33A Series was built specifically to solve the "narrow stile" problem without compromising on the brute strength required for Grade 1 certification. Every veteran locksmith recognizes the 33A by its signature grooved mechanism case. This isn't just for looks; that textured surface is incredibly forgiving in high-traffic environments, hiding the scratches and dings from carts and heavy use better than a smooth finish ever could. When you need a device that fits a stile as narrow as 1-3/4 inches but still needs to survive a million cycles, the 33A is the undisputed heavy hitter.

What makes the 33A different from the 35A is purely aesthetic, but what makes it superior to "contractor-grade" imports is the internal dampening. Von Duprin uses a specialized fluid dampener that decelerates the push pad on its return stroke, eliminating that loud, cheap "clacking" sound. Where the 33A falls short for some is in modern, ultra-sleek architectural offices where they prefer the smooth 35A look—but for schools and government buildings, the 33A is the king. Unlike cheaper alternatives, the 33A is a modular platform. You can field-size the device by cutting the rail, or upgrade it later with a QEL motorized latch retraction kit if the building decides to move to an electronic access control system. Lock Depot sells brand new Von Duprin 33A Series products with the full manufacturer warranty.

For the pro on the truck, consider this your cheat sheet: the 33A Rim is your go-to for single doors or pairs with a mullion. If you're dealing with double doors and don't want a center post, the 3327A Surface Vertical Rod is the standard. For the cleanest possible look on a glass door, the 3347A Concealed Vertical Rod hides the locking components inside the door stile itself. We stock the most common finishes, including US28 (Satin Aluminum) and 313 (Dark Bronze), to make sure your hardware matches the existing storefront perfectly. Lock Depot sells brand new Von Duprin products with the full manufacturer warranty.

Von Duprin 33A Series Comparison

Model	Application / Best Use Case	Grade	Fire Rating	Key Differentiator	Price
33A Rim	Single Narrow Stile Doors	Grade 1	Available (33A-F)	Grooved case; fits 1-3/4" minimum stile	$$$
3327A SVR	Pairs of Doors (Surface Rods)	Grade 1	Available (3327A-F)	Two-point latching; field reversible	$$$$
3347A CVR	Pairs of Doors (Concealed)	Grade 1	Available (3347A-F)	Hidden rods for high-end aesthetics	$$$$
QEL 33A	Electronic Access Control	Grade 1	N/A	Whisper-quiet motorized latch retraction	$$$$$

Pro-Tip: The "Hacksaw" Safety Check

When you're field-sizing a 33A bar to fit a 30-inch or 32-inch door, never just start cutting from the end. You have to remove the mechanism end cap and ensure the internal push bar is pushed all the way toward the hinge side before you make your mark. If you cut into the internal slide or the mounting holes for the ALK alarm kit, you've just turned a $1,000 device into a paperweight. After your cut, always use a fine-tooth file to deburr the aluminum edge; if those metal shavings get into the fluid dampener or the latch spring, the device will eventually bind up and fail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum stile width for a 33A device?

The 33A Series is designed for narrow stile aluminum storefronts. It requires a minimum stile width of 1-3/4 inches (44mm). If your stile is wider than 4-1/2 inches, you should typically move to the 99 Series for a larger footprint.

Can I add an alarm to an existing 33A device?

Yes. You can install a Von Duprin ALK (Alarm Kit) into the rail of any 33A device. It provides an audible 100-decibel alarm when the push pad is depressed, which is ideal for preventing unauthorized exits from retail stores or libraries.

What is the difference between the 33A and 35A?

The internal mechanics, durability, and Grade 1 ratings are identical. The only difference is the look: the 33A has a grooved (textured) mechanism case, while the 35A has a smooth mechanism case for a sleeker architectural look.

How does "Cylinder Dogging" (CD) work on this series?

Standard 33A devices use a hex-key to lock the bar down ("dogging" it) for free passage. The CD option replaces that hex-key hole with a standard mortise cylinder, allowing employees to use their facility key to dog the door open during business hours.

Is the 3327A (Surface Vertical Rod) reversible?

Yes, the 3327A is non-handed and can be field-configured for either Left Hand Reverse (LHR) or Right Hand Reverse (RHR). However, you must ensure the top and bottom latches are timed correctly during the installation to prevent the door from dragging.