Can saloon doors stay open?

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to visit many saloons and bars with various styles of doors. Saloon doors, also known as swinging doors or batwing doors, have a distinct charm and nostalgia that adds to the ambiance of these establishments. However, one common question that often arises is whether saloon doors can stay open.

The answer to this question depends on the type of hinge used on the saloon doors. Traditional saloon doors are typically equipped with spring hinges. These hinges are designed to automatically close the doors, ensuring that they swing shut after being pushed open. This characteristic is intended to maintain privacy and prevent drafts from entering the saloon.

Unlike other types of hinges, such as pivot hinges or continuous hinges, spring hinges lack a hold open feature. This means that saloon doors with spring hinges will not remain open on their own. As soon as you stop pushing or pulling the doors, the spring will pull them back to the closed position. This can be a bit inconvenient if you are trying to keep the doors open for an extended period.

However, it is important to note that the tension of the spring on the hinge can be adjusted. This allows you to control the speed at which the doors swing closed. By adjusting the tension, you can make the doors close more slowly or quickly, depending on your preference. This feature can be particularly useful in busy establishments where the doors are frequently used, as it allows for a smooth and controlled closing motion.

While saloon doors with spring hinges may not naturally stay open, there are a few options to keep them open if desired. One simple solution is to use door stops or wedges to hold the doors in the open position. These can be placed on the floor behind the doors, preventing them from swinging shut. Alternatively, you can consider using magnetic or mechanical door holders that can be easily released to allow the doors to close when needed.

In my own experiences, I have found that many saloons and bars prefer the traditional spring hinges on their saloon doors. This adds to the authenticity and classic feel of the establishment. However, I have also come across some modern variations of saloon doors that feature different types of hinges. Some of these alternative hinges, such as pivot hinges or continuous hinges, do offer a hold open feature, allowing the doors to stay open until manually closed.