Adams Rite MS Series — The Complete Buyer's Guide

The Adams Rite MS series is the most widely specified lock range for narrow-stile aluminium doors in the UK. If you work with aluminium shopfronts, office entrances, or commercial glazing of any kind, understanding the MS series is essential. This guide covers every variant, what each is designed for, and how to choose the right model.

What makes Adams Rite different

Conventional mortice locks are designed for timber doors with wide stiles — the vertical edge member of the door. Narrow-stile aluminium doors have stiles typically 50–80mm wide, far too narrow to accept a standard lockcase. Adams Rite solved this problem in 1955 with the launch of the MS series: a slim, self-contained lockcase designed specifically for the narrow-stile aluminium profile that glazing manufacturers build around.

MS1890 — Deadlock

The MS1890 is a deadlock providing a locking function only, with no latch. It is operated by key from outside and thumbturn from inside, suitable for final exit doors where the door is always left in a locked or unlocked state.

MS1850 — Deadlatch

The MS1850 is Adams Rite's most popular product, combining a spring-loaded latch with a deadbolt function. Available in standard and radius face options, with holdback function available on some models.

MS1890S — Rollerbolt Deadlatch

The rollerbolt version replaces the conventional angled latch with a roller, reducing friction on the strikeplate and making the door easier to close — particularly useful on heavy aluminium doors.

Choosing the right model

The key variables are backset (typically 31.75mm or 38mm), hand (left or right), and whether a deadlock or deadlatch function is required. Always measure before ordering. Door Spares stocks the full Adams Rite MS series. Same-day despatch before 2pm.