A low profile actuating window lock for casement windows having a longitudinal slot in a sidewall of the casing for the lock, wherein a fork component translates within the slot in a direction perpendicular to an axis of rotation of the handle and the handle rotates along a plane perpendicular to the fork component, the handle pivotable about a restrictor arm that pivots relative to the casing, allowing the handle to rotate fully from the locked position to the unlocked position with low clearance from the window frame. The pivot points of the handle and restrictor arm configuration allow for an over center linkage that prevents back driving the casement window lock.