gångsbåge

A gångsbåge is a type of lock or bolt used to secure a door. It typically consists of a sliding bar that moves within a housing. The bar can be extended to engage with a staple or keeper on the door frame, preventing the door from being opened. When retracted, the bar allows the door to swing freely.

These locks are often made of metal, such as brass or steel, and can vary in size and complexity. Some gångsbågar are simple, single-piece sliding bolts, while others might involve multiple components or have mechanisms for key operation. Historically, gångsbågar were common on internal doors within homes and other buildings. They provided a basic level of security and privacy.

The term "gångsbåge" is of Swedish origin, combining "gång" (meaning walk or passage) and "båge" (meaning bow or arch, referring to the shape of the sliding bar). In English-speaking contexts, similar devices might be referred to as sliding bolts, barrel bolts, or simply door bolts. While more sophisticated locking mechanisms are now prevalent, the gångsbåge remains a functional and sometimes decorative element in certain architectural styles. Their design often emphasizes simplicity and durability.