A low profile actuating window lock for casement windows having a longitudinal slot in a sidewall of the casing for the lock, wherein an actuator including a fork component translates within the slot in a direction opposite movement of the handle, the handle pivotable about a restrictor arm that pivots relative to the casing, allowing the handle to rotate 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.