Boat Latches for Doors, Lids & Hatches
Marine latches play a key role in securing boat doors, lids, and hatches. We're here to help with any questions you may have! » Read More
Learn More About Boat Latches
Contents
Finding Exact Replacement Boat Latches
Since we were the original supplier to most boat builders, we carry a majority of the boat latches used throughout the marine industry. Beyond our years of experience and a team of experts at the ready, one other unique feature is the ability to shop by your boat’s brand. With hundreds of latches to choose from, this helps by narrowing them down to the latches used by your particular boat builder during original construction.
Types of marine Latches and Their Common Uses
Marine latches offer versatile solutions for different boat compartments. By understanding these options, boat owners can select the right latches to ensure functionality and convenience on board. Read More
Flush/Slam latches - Perfect for latching storage unit doors and drawers, livewell lids as well as console and access doors.
Push Button latches - Generally used on smaller access doors like electronic box lids and glove boxes as they can function in a smaller footprint than the abovementioned slam latches.
Cam/Compression Latches - Ideal for larger access doors and deck hatches. Additionally, they are great for doors that require more than one latch allowing the user to access the area without the use of multiple hands.
Draw Latches - Used primarily as a hatch hold down these are generally installed in a vertical application and hold hatches in place when underway.
Barrel Bolts - Perfect for securing smaller swinging access doors like a small transom or dive door.
Cabin Door Latches - Primarily used on bifold doors where an upper hatch closes over the top of the door or sliding cabin entry doors where the door slides to close into the frame.
Head Door Latches - Perfect for larger head or console doors, these latches require some tooling to ensure proper functionality.
Transom Door Latches - A fair amount beefier than the aforementioned barrel bolts, these latches are specifically designed for application on larger transom and dive doors.
Graber Latches - These styles of latches vary by application, but in most cases act as a lower strength alternative when a visible latch is not desired. Some feature push to close and open access while others are perfect for smaller, lighter weight hatches and upholstery.
Specialty Latches - In addition to the commonly used latches above, we also carry a variety or specialty latches that can be used in a variety of applications like pull pins for cooler slides or for access under seating or large sundecks to name a few.
Marine latches offer versatile solutions for different boat compartments. By understanding these options, boat owners can select the right latches to ensure functionality and convenience on board.
Flush/Slam latches - Perfect for latching storage unit doors and drawers, livewell lids as well as console and access doors.
Push Button latches - Generally used on smaller access doors like electronic box lids and glove boxes as they can function in a smaller footprint than the abovementioned slam latches.
Cam/Compression Latches - Ideal for larger access doors and deck hatches. Additionally, they are great for doors that require more than one latch allowing the user to access the area without the use of multiple hands.
Draw Latches - Used primarily as a hatch hold down these are generally installed in a vertical application and hold hatches in place when underway.
Barrel Bolts - Perfect for securing smaller swinging access doors like a small transom or dive door.
Cabin Door Latches - Primarily used on bifold doors where an upper hatch closes over the top of the door or sliding cabin entry doors where the door slides to close into the frame.
Head Door Latches - Perfect for larger head or console doors, these latches require some tooling to ensure proper functionality.
Transom Door Latches - A fair amount beefier than the aforementioned barrel bolts, these latches are specifically designed for application on larger transom and dive doors.
Graber Latches - These styles of latches vary by application, but in most cases act as a lower strength alternative when a visible latch is not desired. Some feature push to close and open access while others are perfect for smaller, lighter weight hatches and upholstery.
Specialty Latches - In addition to the commonly used latches above, we also carry a variety or specialty latches that can be used in a variety of applications like pull pins for cooler slides or for access under seating or large sundecks to name a few.
Other Marine Latch Considerations
When considering marine latches, it's important to think about locking versus non-locking options. While locking latches provide security, non-locking ones offer easier access and sometimes cost savings. Additionally, material choice—whether stainless steel or plastic—affects durability and appearance. Stainless steel is durable and attractive, but plastic may be more budget-friendly. By weighing these factors, you can select the best latch for your needs. Read More
Locking Vs. Non-Locking
Most latches we carry are available in both locking and non-locking versions. Although the locking versions offer more security, you may opt for a non-locking version for convenience of access as well as in some cases cost savings. Should you opt for a locking latch or currently have them installed on the boat and lose your key, we offer a variety of replacement keys for most locking latches.
Material
Material must also be considered when selecting a latch for your next project. We primarily carry latches made from stainless steel or plastic. Stainless steel latches are usually more expensive, but give an appealing finished look and will not crack or break as easily as those composed of plastic. That said, plastic latches may be a better option if you are looking to save a little money and don't need something as durable over time.
When considering marine latches, it's important to think about locking versus non-locking options. While locking latches provide security, non-locking ones offer easier access and sometimes cost savings. Additionally, material choice—whether stainless steel or plastic—affects durability and appearance. Stainless steel is durable and attractive, but plastic may be more budget-friendly. By weighing these factors, you can select the best latch for your needs.
Locking Vs. Non-Locking - Most latches we carry are available in both locking and non-locking versions. Although the locking versions offer more security, you may opt for a non-locking version for convenience of access as well as in some cases cost savings. Should you opt for a locking latch or currently have them installed on the boat and lose your key, we offer a variety of replacement keys for most locking latches.
Material - Material must also be considered when selecting a latch for your next project. We primarily carry latches made from stainless steel or plastic. Stainless steel latches are usually more expensive, but give an appealing finished look and will not crack or break as easily as those composed of plastic. That said, plastic latches may be a better option if you are looking to save a little money and don't need something as durable over time.
Contact Us
If you’re having trouble finding the exact part you're looking for, the best first step is to take a picture and give us a call.
Our customer service team is here Mon-Fri 8am - 5pm and would love to help you track down the exact hardware you need.
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Commonly Asked Questions About Latches
Boat Outfitters should always be your first stop when looking for replacement boat latches. Since we supply most major boat builders with their hardware we probably know the perfect match for your boat.
The easiest way to find replacement marine latches is to use our shop by boat brand feature to find an OEM replacement. Another great option is to send us a photo and the measurements of your existing latch, with this information we can gladly find and ship a latch that will work for your boat!
No, as long as the key features; style, hole size, face size and pawl length match you can use a different latch as a replacement. For example, a common upgrade is to replace plastic latches with stainless for the aesthetics and added durability.
The installation of most marine latches is easily done by securing 2 screws to the back side of the latch. If you have any questions, give us a call and we will gladly walk you through the process of installing your latch.
Marine latches have been designed for use in the tough marine environment. This also makes marine latches perfect for any outdoor application.