When it comes to premium architectural hardware, Rocky Mountain Hardware is one of the best-known names in the industry. Designers and homeowners alike turn to them when they want luxury finishes — but brand recognition doesn’t always equal better quality or value.

At Element Hardware, we hand-forge every piece in our workshop, using old-world techniques to create truly one-of-a-kind iron hardware that’s stronger, more authentic, and more affordable than the cast bronze offered by Rocky Mountain Hardware.

If you’re looking for a Rocky Mountain Hardware alternative, here’s why Element Hardware delivers superior craftsmanship, customization, and value — all without the inflated luxury markup.

1. The Craftsmanship Difference: Hand-Forged Iron vs. Cast Bronze

Rocky Mountain Hardware’s products are made using casting, a process where molten bronze is poured into a mold. While this allows for consistency, it’s also mass-producible — each piece starts identical, and surface texture is often added afterward.

By contrast, Element Hardware is hand-forged, meaning every handle, pull, and bracket is individually shaped by hammer and anvil.

You can see and feel the difference:

• Forged iron is dense and long-lasting

• Cast bronze can be brittle and less structurally sound

• Hand-forged textures are organic and unique — no two pieces are the same

When you choose Element Hardware, you’re not buying something poured from a mold. You’re investing in authentic craftsmanship, built one piece at a time.

2. Paying for a Name — Not Necessarily for Quality

There’s no denying that Rocky Mountain Hardware has a well-established brand. But much of what you pay for is marketing, showrooms, and distribution costs — not superior craftsmanship.

At Element Hardware, we sell directly to our customers, cutting out the middlemen. That means you’re paying for what actually matters:

• Raw materials

• Skilled labor

• Time and artistry

No inflated markups. No “luxury tax.” Just heirloom-quality hardware at a fair price.

3. Authentic Finishes That Age Beautifully

Rocky Mountain Hardware uses patina finishes on bronze, which can be attractive initially — but these chemical patinas can wear unevenly or fade over time.

Our finishes at Element Hardware are applied and hand-rubbed, built up through multiple layers using zero-VOC undercoats and hardening waxes. They’re designed to age gracefully, not chip or peel.

Even better, our finishes can be easily refreshed — so if years of use dull the surface, a quick wax application restores the original luster.

Every finish highlights the depth and texture of hand-forged iron, giving your hardware a warmth and character no factory patina can match.

4. Custom-Made, Hand-Forged to Order

This is where Element Hardware truly sets itself apart.

While Rocky Mountain Hardware offers a limited range of styles and finishes, we understand that no two homes — or design visions — are the same. That’s why every piece we create is hand-forged to order, allowing you to customize nearly every detail:

• Custom dimensions to fit your cabinetry, doors, or furniture perfectly

• Custom finishes to match your design palette

• Design modifications for unique architectural or historic projects

• Custom sets or collections built to your exact specifications

Because each piece is made to order, you’re not limited by a catalog — you’re collaborating with blacksmiths who can bring your vision to life.

If you can dream it, we can forge it.

That level of personalization is something mass-market brands like Rocky Mountain Hardware simply can’t offer.

5. True Artisan Quality — Without the Luxury Markup

Rocky Mountain Hardware pricing is often two to three times higher than Element Hardware — yet their products are cast, not forged.

Our approach is simple:

• Hand-forged iron, built for strength and beauty

• Durable heirloom finishes that can be renewed

• Made-to-order customization

• Fair, direct pricing

You get authentic artisan hardware — not luxury branding with a price tag to match.

6. Designed for Real Homes, Not Just Showrooms

Hardware shouldn’t just look good in a display — it should perform beautifully in everyday life.

Element Hardware is designed for real homes and real use. From high-traffic kitchens to moisture-prone baths, our finishes and materials are made to stand up to daily wear while looking better with age.

This is hardware you’ll use, touch, and admire for decades — not just a decorative detail, but a functional piece of art.

The Best Alternative to Rocky Mountain Hardware

If you’re searching for a Rocky Mountain Hardware alternative, Element Hardware offers everything luxury brands promise — and more:

• True hand-forged craftsmanship (not cast)

• Fully customizable designs and finishes

• Durable, heirloom quality

• Direct pricing without luxury markups

Before you invest in overpriced cast bronze, experience the authentic beauty of hand-forged iron.

Explore Our Collection and discover why designers and homeowners across the country are choosing Element Hardware as their preferred alternative to Rocky Mountain Hardware.