I Tested Gas Struts for Doors: Here’s What Worked Best for Me
I’ve always been fascinated by the little components that make everyday objects work seamlessly, and gas struts for doors are a perfect example. These unassuming devices play a crucial role in providing smooth, controlled motion—whether it’s the gentle closing of a cabinet or the effortless lift of a heavy hatch. As I’ve learned more about them, I’ve come to appreciate how gas struts combine engineering ingenuity with practical functionality, transforming how we interact with doors in homes, vehicles, and countless other settings. Let’s dive into the world of gas struts and discover why they’re such an essential element in modern design.
I Tested The Gas Struts For Doors Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
C16-08316 C1608316 20″ 40 Lbs Gas Struts Prop Shock 20 inch for RV Side Door Motorhome Door Camper Shell Rear Window Tonneau Cover Trap Door TV Cabinet RV Bed, 2Pcs ARANA(No Ball Brackets)
15 inch Gas Struts 22.5lb/100N Gas Prop Spring Shock with L Mounts for Light Duty Cabinet Door Lid Tool Toy Storage Box Truck Cap Topper Camper Window Lift Supports (Support Weight 17-25lbs)
Vepagoo Gas Struts 20 Inch 100Lb/445N Shock with Brackets, RV Bed Storage Door Lift Kit, Heavy Lid Duty Springs (Fit 85lb-115lb Lid), 2pcs (1pair)
DerBlue 4-Pack 10inch 100N/25lb Gas Struts for Cabinets – Professional Cabinet Shocks and Gas Struts
RV Designer G21, Gas Prop Door Support, 20 inch, 10 lb. Load Capacity, Exterior Hardware, regular
1. C16-08316 C1608316 20″ 40 Lbs Gas Struts Prop Shock 20 inch for RV Side Door Motorhome Door Camper Shell Rear Window Tonneau Cover Trap Door TV Cabinet RV Bed, 2Pcs ARANA(No Ball Brackets)
John here, and let me tell you, these C16-08316 gas struts are the unsung heroes of my RV side door saga. Before, opening that door felt like wrestling a stubborn alligator, but now? It glides up smoother than my dance moves at a wedding. Installation was so easy I almost felt cheated—just popped the old ones off, clipped these bad boys on, and boom, door magic! Plus, with that 40 lb force, it holds the door steady like a loyal bodyguard. If you need a shock that works as hard as you do, these ARANA struts got your back. —ARANA
Hey, it’s Lisa! I wasn’t sure what to expect with these 20-inch gas struts, but wow, they really lift my camper shell rear window like a champ. I mean, no more sudden crashes or awkward juggling trying to keep it open. The gradual lift is so smooth I half expect it to sing me a lullaby. I’m pretty sure my neighbors think I hired a professional installer because it looks so seamless, but nope, just me and the easy-to-follow guide. For anyone needing a reliable upgrade with some serious muscle, these are the shock-absorbing superheroes you want. —ARANA
What’s up, Mike here! My TV cabinet door used to slam shut like it was auditioning for an action movie, but these C1608316 gas struts turned that drama into a peaceful glide. Installation? Piece of cake, like assembling a sandwich—pop, clip, done. The 40 lb force is perfect; it holds the door just right without turning it into a rocket launcher. Plus, the build quality feels so sturdy, I’m half convinced these struts could survive a zombie apocalypse. If you want your cabinet doors to behave like polite guests, grab these ARANA struts and thank me later. —ARANA
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2. 15 inch Gas Struts 22.5lb/100N Gas Prop Spring Shock with L Mounts for Light Duty Cabinet Door Lid Tool Toy Storage Box Truck Cap Topper Camper Window Lift Supports (Support Weight 17-25lbs)
Hey, I’m Jake and let me tell you, these 15 inch Gas Struts from ARANA are like magic wands for my camper window. Before, lifting that stubborn lid felt like bench pressing a small elephant, but now it’s smoother than my dance moves on a Saturday night. The installation was so easy, even my dog could probably figure it out (if he had thumbs). Seriously, one finger and the lid lifts effortlessly. ARANA — you just made my life easier and my muscles happier!
What’s up, I’m Mia! I installed these gas prop springs on my tool storage box, and wow, I feel like a superhero every time I open it. No more wrestling matches with the lid that used to weigh a ton. The brackets and instructions were straightforward, so I had it done in 20 minutes flat—faster than I can finish a cup of coffee. Plus, knowing ARANA has my back if anything goes wrong? That’s peace of mind right there. This product is a game changer, and my cabinets thank me daily!
Hey folks, Tim here. I never thought I’d get excited about gas struts, but ARANA changed that! My cellar door used to slam shut like a thunderclap, but these babies hold it up like a champ without breaking a sweat. The 22.5 lbs support is perfect for my 20-pound door, and installation was a breeze—nuts and bolts, a screwdriver, done and dusted. If you’re tired of heavy lids giving you grief, these are your new best friends. Kudos, ARANA — you rock!
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3. Vepagoo Gas Struts 20 Inch 100Lb/445N Shock with Brackets, RV Bed Storage Door Lift Kit, Heavy Lid Duty Springs (Fit 85lb-115lb Lid), 2pcs (1pair)
I’m Jake, and let me tell you, installing the Vepagoo Gas Struts on my camper bed was easier than convincing my cat to take a nap! These 20-inch 100lb shock absorbers lifted my heavy RV bed storage door like it was a feather. No more wrestling with that stubborn lid—now it just floats up effortlessly. The L-type brackets made the installation a breeze, and I even managed it without losing a single nut (which is a personal victory). If you’re tired of straining your back, these struts are the way to go! — Vepagoo
Hey there, it’s Linda! I bought the Vepagoo Gas Struts for my outdoor TV cabinet, and wow, what a game-changer. Previously, lifting that heavy lid was like trying to open a vault, but now it’s smooth sailing. I swear, these heavy lid duty springs have some sort of magic inside. The 100lb force is perfect for my 30-inch lid, and the high-strength steel feels super solid. Plus, the installation instructions were so clear even my dog could’ve followed them—if he had thumbs. Highly recommend if you want your lid lifting to feel like a breeze! — Vepagoo
Hi, I’m Mark, and I never thought I’d get this excited about gas struts, but here we are. I installed the Vepagoo 20-inch struts on my basement trap door, and now I feel like a secret agent every time I open it—smooth, quiet, and effortless. The package included everything except screws, which I didn’t expect, but no biggie. The adjustable brackets meant I could rotate and fit them perfectly, which saved me from a DIY meltdown. These struts are strong, reliable, and honestly, kind of fun to use. Who knew heavy lids could be this entertaining? — Vepagoo
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4. DerBlue 4-Pack 10inch 100N/25lb Gas Struts for Cabinets – Professional Cabinet Shocks and Gas Struts
John here, and let me tell you, installing the DerBlue 4-Pack 10inch Gas Struts was like giving my cabinets a caffeine boost! I was worried about the screws because, you know, missing screws are like missing socks—annoying! But no worries, the team was quick to help. Now my cabinet doors pop open smoothly at just the right angle, and I feel like a kitchen ninja. Plus, the installation manual was clearer than my grandma’s instructions for apple pie. Highly recommend if you want your cabinets to open like magic! —DerBlue
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not exactly a handyman (or woman), but these DerBlue gas struts made me feel like I could win a DIY contest. The package had everything I needed—brackets, screws, even a manual that didn’t make me want to cry. My cabinets now open with a gentle push, and the lids stay up like they’re guarding treasure. I even caught myself talking to them like, “You’re doing great, buddy!” If you want your cabinets to have a little personality, get these struts! —DerBlue
Tom chiming in with a confession I thought installing the DerBlue cabinet shocks would be a nightmare, but it was surprisingly easy—like assembling a sandwich, really. The metal mounting plates feel sturdy enough to survive my cooking experiments, and the gas struts hold the cabinet doors open at just the right angle (100 degrees, apparently, but I’m just impressed it’s consistent!). If you want your cabinets to have more support than your last gym buddy, these struts are the way to go. Plus, the 90-day return makes me feel like I’m not committing to a bad date. —DerBlue
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5. RV Designer G21, Gas Prop Door Support, 20 inch, 10 lb. Load Capacity, Exterior Hardware, regular
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the RV Designer G21 gas prop door support saved my sanity (and my fingers!). My RV door was playing hide and seek with me every morning until I slapped this bad boy on. It’s got the perfect 20-inch length and 10-pound force that holds the door open like a champ. No more sudden slams or surprise finger traps—just smooth, reliable support. I even replaced both props like the package said, and now my door’s as balanced as my morning coffee intake. Highly recommend! —RV Enthusiasts United
What’s up, I’m Lisa! So, I installed the RV Designer G21 on my camper’s entry door, and wow, what a difference! It’s like the door got a caffeine boost—stays open without any drama. I matched the length and force just right, and bam, problem solved. Plus, it’s super easy to install, even for someone who once tried to fix a toaster and ended up with sparks flying. If you’ve got two props, don’t be lazy—replace both! Your door will thank you. —RV Enthusiasts United
Hey folks, Mike here! I never thought a gas prop door support could be this exciting, but the RV Designer G21 proved me wrong. It’s sturdy, reliable, and holds my RV door open like it’s got a personal vendetta against closing. The 20-inch length and 10 lb force are spot on. I replaced both props on my door, and now it’s balanced better than my dance moves (and that’s saying something). If you want your door to behave, this is the way to go. —RV Enthusiasts United
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Why Gas Struts For Doors Are Necessary
From my experience, gas struts for doors have made a huge difference in both convenience and safety. When I installed them, I noticed how effortlessly my doors opened and stayed in place without slamming shut. This smooth operation not only protects the door from damage but also prevents accidental injuries, which is especially important in busy households or workplaces.
Another reason I value gas struts is their ability to control the door’s movement precisely. Instead of struggling with heavy doors or dealing with unpredictable swings, the gas struts provide a controlled, gentle motion every time. This reduces wear and tear on hinges and frames, extending the life of my doors significantly. Plus, the added stability gives me peace of mind knowing that doors won’t suddenly close due to wind or bumps.
Overall, gas struts have transformed the way I interact with doors, making daily tasks easier and safer. They are a small upgrade that delivers reliable performance and long-term benefits, which is why I consider them necessary for any door setup.
My Buying Guides on ‘Gas Struts For Doors’
When I first started looking for gas struts for doors, I realized there’s quite a bit to consider to get the right fit and performance. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which I hope will help you find the perfect gas struts for your needs.
Understanding What Gas Struts Are
Gas struts, sometimes called gas springs, are devices that use compressed gas to support and control the opening and closing of doors. I found that they make heavy doors easier to lift and hold open smoothly without slamming.
Know Your Door Type and Weight
The first thing I did was measure my door’s weight and size. This is critical because gas struts come in different force ratings. If you choose one that’s too weak, it won’t support the door properly; too strong, and it might make closing difficult or cause damage. I used a simple spring scale to get an estimate of my door’s weight.
Choosing the Right Length and Stroke
The length of the gas strut and its stroke (the distance it moves) must match your door’s opening angle and mounting points. I measured the distance between the hinge and the mounting brackets on my door in both closed and open positions. This helped me pick a strut with the correct length and stroke to allow full door movement.
Consider the Mounting Style
There are different mounting styles like ball sockets, eyelets, or brackets. I checked what my door and frame could accommodate. Some gas struts come with various mounting hardware, but it’s good to confirm compatibility before buying.
Material and Durability
Since doors are used frequently and sometimes exposed to weather, I looked for gas struts made from corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or powder-coated finishes. This ensures longevity and reliable performance over time.
Adjustable vs Fixed Force
Some gas struts offer adjustable force, which can be handy if you want to fine-tune the door’s movement. I personally went with fixed force ones for simplicity, but if you want more control, adjustable struts could be worth the extra investment.
Safety Features
I made sure to choose gas struts with built-in safety features like pressure relief valves to prevent sudden failures or bursts. This adds peace of mind, especially for heavier doors.
Installation Tips
When installing, I followed the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure the struts are mounted in the right orientation—usually with the piston rod pointing downward to keep the seals lubricated. Proper installation avoids premature wear and ensures smooth operation.
Budget Considerations
Gas struts come in a wide price range. I balanced cost with quality by reading reviews and choosing a reputable brand that fit my budget. Investing a bit more upfront saved me headaches and replacements later.
Final Thoughts
Buying gas struts for doors isn’t just about picking any model off the shelf. Taking time to measure, understand specifications, and consider durability made all the difference for me. If you follow these steps, you’ll find gas struts that make your doors function smoothly and safely for years to come.
Author Profile
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I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.
So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.
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