February 15, 2026
Exit devices play a key role in life safety. When they are not specified the right way, problems follow. Projects face change orders, failed inspections, slowdowns, and higher costs. Doors may also end up with mixed hardware that does not match the plan. These issues are common and avoidable.
Exit devices must meet strict rules in the International Building Code (IBC), NFPA 101 Life Safety Code and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These codes set clear expectations for how doors must work during an emergency. If the wrong device is used, the door may not pass inspection or may not give safe egress during a rush to exit.
One of the most common mistakes in construction specs is choosing the wrong type of exit device. Panic hardware and fire rated hardware look similar, but they serve different jobs. If the wrong device goes on a fire door, the opening will not pass a fire rating test. If the wrong device goes on a non-fire door, the door may not handle egress the right way.
PDQ makes this process easier. The full lineup covers every need:
- 6300R and 6400R Rim devices for single doors or pairs with a mullion.
- 6300V and 6400V Surface Vertical Rod devices for pairs that need two point latching, or without use of a mullion.
- 6300C and 6400C Concealed Vertical Rod devices for clean sightlines and added security on pairs. Also provide two point latches for use without a mullion.
- 6300M Mortise devices for high security, or on pairs with an inactive leaf.
- 6300D Dummy For use on doors that do not latch but that need a matching look to other latching doors in the vicinity.
This blog will break down each device type, guide you on how to write PDQ models into Division 08 specs and help you choose the right hardware for each door. This will support smoother jobs, safer openings and fewer surprises during inspection.
Understanding the PDQ 6300 Wide Stile and 6400 Narrow Stile Series: Complete Model Breakdown
The PDQ 6300 and 6400 Series give you a clear lineup of panic and fire rated exit devices. The system is easy to read. Each device ends with a letter that shows the format.
- R means Rim
- V means Surface Vertical Rod
- C means Concealed Vertical Rod
- M means Mortise
- D means Dummy
This naming structure makes spec writing easier. It removes guesswork, keeps hardware schedules clean and reduces mistakes during ordering.
PDQ Model Naming Made Simple
When you look at a PDQ model number, you know:
- The series (6300 Wide Stile or 6400 Narrow Stile)
- The rating (panic or fire rated)
- The device type (R, V, C, M or D)
This helps architects, project managers and hardware distributors match each device to the right door. It also supports clear communication between design teams, installers and suppliers.
Rim Exit Devices, 6300R Wide Stile and 6400R Narrow Stile
Rim devices mount on the door surface and latch into a strike on the frame. They are simple to install and easy to service.
Best used on:
- Single doors
- Pairs with a mullion
- Retrofit projects
Key strengths:
- Fast installation
- High durability
- Motorized latch retraction (MLR) capability
- Clean and reliable latch action
Surface Vertical Rod Devices, 6300V Wide Stile and 6400V Narrow Stile
Surface vertical rod (SVR) devices latch at the top and bottom of the door. They support strong two point engagement.
Best used on:
- Double doors with no center mullion
- High traffic spaces like schools and hospitals where a mullion would not be suitable
Key strengths:
- Two point latching
- Field adjustable rods
- Heavy duty performance
- Easy service and inspection
Concealed Vertical Rod Devices, 6300C Wide Stile and 6400C Narrow Stile
Concealed vertical rod (CVR) devices hide the rods inside the door. This gives the door a clean look and keeps hardware protected.
Best used on:
- Doors where design matters
- Areas where tampering is common
- Public buildings with modern finishes where a mullion would not be suitable
Key strengths:
- Clean sightlines
- Hidden hardware
- Lower risk of vandalism
- Smooth and quiet operation
Mortise Exit Device, 6300M
The 6300M uses a mortise lock body inside the door.
Best used on:
- High security openings
- Controlled access doors
- Spaces with heavy daily use
Key strengths:
- Strong latch engagement
- Smooth and solid feel
- Long service life
- Works well with electric trim
Dummy Exit Device, 6300D
A dummy exit device has no working latch. It gives the look of an exit device without the function.
Best used on:
- Doors that need a matching design but do not require latching
- Doors that utilize an electrified means of locking/unlocking such as a mag lock.
Key strengths:
- Simple installation
- Lower cost
- Visual consistency across all doors
Certifications and Code Compliance
PDQ devices meet strict industry standards. These certifications help ensure safe use, strong performance and code compliance.
- ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 for strength and cycle testing
- UL fire ratings for 6300 & 6400 models
- Panic vs fire exit hardware rules:
- Panic devices release with one simple action
- Fire exit hardware must latch when closed
- No mechanical dogging on fire doors
- ADA operation requirements, which cover clear opening force and handle operation
These approvals help the devices pass inspection and support safe egress during an emergency.
How to Specify PDQ Exit Devices in Division 08
Clear specs help avoid errors, delays and hardware changes. This section gives you simple steps to list PDQ exit devices in Division 08. The goal is to help you write clean hardware sets that match the intent of your design and meet code.
Correct Placement in Specs
Exit devices belong in Division 08, Section 08 71 00 Door Hardware. This helps contractors and suppliers find the right information fast.
When you write your spec, make sure you call out:
- Panic hardware for non fire openings
- Fire exit hardware for fire rated doors
These labels matter. Fire rated doors must use fire exit hardware. They cannot use panic hardware with mechanical dogging, because fire doors must latch when closed. These rules are found in the International Building Code and NFPA 101.
Also list basic door details to avoid mistakes:
- Door material
- Door thickness
- Handing, if needed for the trim
These details help ensure the right device is ordered and prepped.
Model Naming and Sample Specification Language
Each PDQ model number gives clear information. Use this in your spec to avoid confusion.
Here are sample lines you can use:
- Rim device, 6300R Wide Stile or 6400R Narrow Stile:
Provide PDQ 6300R rim exit device with Grade 1 construction. - Surface vertical rod, 6300V Wide Stile or 6400V Narrow Stile:
Provide PDQ 6400V surface vertical rod device with top and bottom latching. - Concealed vertical rod, 6300C Wide Stile or 6400C Narrow Stile:
Provide PDQ 6300C concealed vertical rod exit device for tamper resistant use. - Mortise device, 6300M:
Provide PDQ 6300M mortise exit device with integrated mortise lock. - Dummy device, 6300D:
Provide PDQ 6300D dummy exit device.
Short, direct language helps keep the spec clear for bidders and installers.
Key Specification Details to Include
To avoid questions during bidding or installation, list the items below in each hardware set:
- Trim type: lever, escutcheon, pull handle
- Finish code: 626, 630, black, bronze and others
- Latch type and strike type: rim strikes, fire rated strikes or floor strikes
- Dogging: mechanical or electric
- Electrified options:
- Fire rating: note where or “F” (fire rated) exit devices are required
These details help ensure the correct device is shipped for each opening.
Preventing Substitutions
If you want PDQ devices used as listed, use clear language in your spec.
Common ways to do this:
- “No substitutions permitted.”
- “Basis of Design: PDQ 6300 Series.”
You can also support the spec by calling out required performance:
- Grade 1 performance
- UL fire listing when needed
- Matching latch and trim functions
PDQ’s U.S. based manufacturing and strong lead times are also good reasons to keep the spec intact. These points help prevent last minute value changes that may not match your design intent.
Choosing the Right Exit Device for Each Opening
Pick the device that fits the door and use. Start with the basics. Then match the model to the need.
Key Selection Criteria
Consider these items for each opening:
- Door type: single, pair, active, or inactive.
- Material: wood, hollow metal, or aluminum.
- Traffic: light, medium, or heavy use.
- Security: basic, medium, or high need.
- Aesthetics: clean sightlines or exposed hardware.
- Code: panic or fire rated, per IBC and NFPA 101.
- Electrified needs: MLR, monitoring, or access control.
These points shape the right choice and help prevent rework.
Quick Selection Guide
Use this guide to match the device to the opening:
- Rim (R): best for single doors. Fast to install. Great for retrofits.
- Surface Vertical Rod (V): best for pairs with no mullion. Handles heavy use.
- Concealed Vertical Rod (C): clean look. Helps reduce tampering. Best for pairs with no mullion.
- Mortise (M): strong and secure. Works well with access control.
- Dummy (D): Keeps the look consistent.
If the door is fire rated, add the “F” to the model number.
New Construction vs Retrofit
Plan the device around door prep and install time:
- Rim: easiest for retrofit work. Minimal door changes.
- CVR: best for new builds. Needs factory or shop prep.
- SVR: may need frame or floor work. Plan anchors and strikes.
- Mortise: needs precise door prep. Offers long term strength.
When in doubt, confirm the door rating and use. Then select the model that meets both the code and the project goal.
Why PDQ Makes Spec Work Easier and Safer
PDQ offers a full range of exit devices that support safe egress and strong performance. The lineup includes Rim, SVR, CVR, Mortise and Dummy devices, so you can match each door to the right solution.
PDQ’s 6300 and 6400 series exit devices are made in the United States with Grade 1 strength, as defined by the ANSI/BHMA standard. PDQ also offers steady lead times and solid support, which helps reduce change orders and code issues.
If you need help on your next project, please download our available resources or contact PDQ for support.
