NEWBANG 2016 Set Handleset

The Verdict

Let’s be direct: a handleset that costs less than a tank of gas usually feels like it. The NEWBANG 2016 Set Handleset, hovering around the $40 mark, doesn’t completely defy that expectation — but it gets closer than you’d think. With 204 ratings averaging 4.1 stars, it’s clearly doing something right for budget-conscious homeowners. The question is whether that something includes you.

What’s actually in the box

You’re getting two complete lever sets: one keyed entry function (exterior doors) and one passage function (interior doors like hall closets or bedrooms without locks). Each includes the lever handles, rosettes, latch bolt, strike plate, screws, and two nickel-silver keys per entry set. The levers are zinc alloy with a baked-on finish — available in satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and matte black, depending on which listing you grab.

The packaging is basic but protective. No fancy foam inserts, but nothing arrived scratched in the reviews I tracked. For the price, that’s acceptable.

How it actually performs

Installation is straightforward if you’ve swapped a door handle before. The levers are reversible — a small screw on the rosette lets you flip the handle for left- or right-hinged doors. Most buyers reported a 15–20 minute install per door using just a Phillips head and a flathead screwdriver. If you’re replacing an existing handleset, the screw holes from the old unit usually line up fine.

The action is where this set surprises. The lever throw is smooth, with a satisfying return spring that doesn’t feel mushy or cheap. The keyed cylinder turns cleanly — no jiggling or “sticky lock” syndrome that plagues budget hardware. One reviewer noted, “I’ve installed $80 handlesets that feel flimsier than this. The weight alone tells you it’s not hollow junk.” That heft comes from the zinc alloy body, which gives it a solid, dense feel in hand.

The finish is decent for the price point. The satin nickel option has a consistent, brushed texture that doesn’t show fingerprints as badly as polished chrome. The anti-rust coating matters if you’re installing on an exterior door in a humid or coastal area — several buyers in Florida and the Gulf Coast reported zero corrosion after a year of exposure.

What buyers consistently praise

The most repeated positive across reviews is the value proposition. Buyers repeatedly mention comparing this to big-box store sets costing $60–$80 and finding the NEWBANG comparable in feel and function. One verified purchase put it plainly: “Bought two sets for what one Schlage would’ve cost me. Six months in, no issues.”

The dual-function aspect also earns consistent praise. Having both keyed and passage levers in one box means you can outfit an entire hallway of doors in a single purchase, which simplifies ordering and saves on shipping.

Where it falls short

The strike plate screws are the weak link. Multiple reviewers reported stripped heads during installation — the metal is soft, and the Phillips head cam-out easily. My advice: swap them for #8 × 1-inch deck screws from your local hardware store before you start. It’s a $2 fix that saves a headache.

The latch bolt alignment can also be finicky. If your door has non-standard prep (older homes, odd backset measurements), you may need to file the strike plate opening slightly. One reviewer noted, “Took an extra 20 minutes with a metal file to get the latch to catch cleanly. Not a dealbreaker, but know it going in.” Check your existing door prep before ordering — if you have a 2-3/8-inch backset, you’re likely fine.

The keys are basic — no security pins, easy to duplicate. This is fine for interior-to-exterior transitions on a side door, but don’t rely on it as your primary high-security entry point.

Who should buy this

• First-time homeowners furnishing multiple doors on a budget
• Landlords needing consistent, decent-looking hardware across rental units
• DIYers comfortable with minor adjustments who want solid function without premium pricing

FAQ

Q: Is this handleset compatible with standard US door prep? Yes, for most standard 2-3/8-inch or 2-3/4-inch backsets. The latch bolt is adjustable between the two. Non-standard doors may need minor filing.

Q: Can I use the keyed entry lever on an interior door? Technically yes, but the keyed function is meant for exterior use. It’ll work, but you’ll be locking yourself out of rooms accidentally more often than you’d like. Use the passage lever indoors.

Q: Does the finish hold up against scratching? The baked-on coating handles normal wear — keys scraping, rings brushing against it. Heavy impacts (dropped tools, moving furniture) will chip it, same as any hardware in this price range.

The Verdict

Buy it if: you need functional, good-looking lever sets across multiple doors without spending premium prices. The solid construction and smooth action punch above the price tag.

Skip it if: you demand precision-grade hardware with high-security cylinders, or if your door prep is unusual and you’re not comfortable with minor DIY adjustments.

Rating: 4.2/5 — The NEWBANG 2016 Set Handleset delivers honest value. Swap the strike plate screws, expect a possible 20-minute alignment tweak, and you’ve got a solid handleset that’ll serve you for years. It’s not a Schlage, but it doesn’t pretend to be — and that honesty is refreshing.

Check current pricing on Amazon — availability and finish options vary by listing.

Where to Buy

👉 Check Price on Amazon →

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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.