The Gravity Latch

A cast-iron gravity latch secured the low wooden garden gate. I paused. A horizontal bar pivoted on a single bolt, resting squarely inside a notched strike plate. Two deliberate hops brought me onto the wide post cap. Leaning forward, I pressed both front paws down onto the curved thumb release. Counterbalance in action. The heavy iron bar lifted half an inch, clearing the beveled catch with a muted metallic scrape. One gentle nudge pushed the gate outward. Releasing the lever, gravity took over. The bar swung down along the curve, snapping into the cradle with a deep, resonant clack. Latched. Balanced and secure.