Glossary: Difference between revisions

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anatomy of a lock, anatomy of a key, specific to lock picking, specific to lock sport,  
anatomy of a lock, anatomy of a key, specific to lock picking, specific to lock sport,  
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{{anchor|lockpick}} '''''[[lockpick]]''''' - A tool or implement used to manipulate the [[#pin|pins]], [[#lever|levers]] or [[#wafer|wafers]] inside a lock without the key.
<!--  Copied from the Internet for reference material and not straight plagiarism.
-- http://www.lock-picking.org/locksmith-dictionary.html
action The arrangements of live or latch bolts and their accessories in a lock or latch, and how they function.
alike change More than one lock or latch which can be operated by the same key.
all to pass Often referred to as "locks to pass" i.e. a number of locks which can be passed or keyed alike (opened by the same key).
anti-thrust bolt A spring bolt, for a night latch particularly, which cannot be pushed back when it has shot out and fastened a door.
anti-thrust plate An overlapping metal plate fitted to outward opening doors so as to prevent access to lock bolts.
automatic deadlatch A deadlatch, the main bolt of which is automatically locked (or deadlocked) when the door is closed.
backplate A plate on the inside of a door through which the cylinder connecting screws and tailpiece is passed.
backset The horizontal distance from the edge of a door to the center of a lockset.
bar (OF LEVER) The part between the pockets which is slotted to allow the bolt stump to pass through.
barrel and curtain This is the full name of a security device fitted in some locks to turn and close the keyhole when the key or any other instruments inserted through the keyhole is turned.
barrel bolt The common kind of door bolt having a round shoot running in a long continuous guide or strap attached to the backplate, the shoot being provided with a knob or the equivalent for operation by hand.
barrel key A key with a bit projecting from a hollow cylindrical shaft.
bathroom lock A lock with a springbolt operable on both sides by furniture, and a deadbolt operable from the inside only, usually by thumb turn.
bi-lock A pin tumber cylinder lock consisting of two parallel rows of pin tumblers and two sidebars operated by a U shaped key.
birmingham bar A steel bar fitted to the inside face of a door frame on the hinge side.
bit key A key with a bit projecting from a solid cylindrical shaft. The bit has cuts to bypass the wards or operate levers in the correct lock.
bit key lock A warded or lever lock that uses bit keys.
bitting A cut, or series of cuts, on the bit or blade of a key.
blade The portion of the key that is inserted into the lock.
blank A key before any cuts have been made.
bolt The part of a lock or latch which provides the fastening or engagement by protruding from the case or forend to engage in the staple, striking plate, link, shackle or other member.
bolt head The portion of a bolt that protrudes beyond the case of forend of a lock.
bolt hole The hole in a case, forend, plate or staple to guide and/or admit the bolt.
bolt stump According to some authorities, this is the name of the part that upstands, usually rectangular in section, on a dead bolt or runner which passes through the slot or gating in the levers as the bolt moves.
bow The handle of the key.
burglar bars Steel bars, usually round or square in profile, cut to length and fixed internally to window frames.
by-pass tool A device that neutralizes the security of a locking device, or its application hardware, often taking advantage of a design weakness.
cabinet lock A generic term to include all locks of any type for use on pieces of furniture, such as cupboards, drawers, chests, boxes and the like.
cam Usually a tongue fixed to the end of the plug of a cylinder lock or latch.
cam lock A lock that has an attached cam that serves as the lock's bolt. Cam locks are often used on cabinets, file cabinets and drawers.
cap (of the lock) The removable cover to a lock mechanism.
case The housing or body of a lock.
casement door A hinged door or pair of doors almost wholly glazed; often called a French Window.
casement window A window in which one or more lights are hinged to open.
case ward Protrusions that stick out of the sides of the keyway to allow entry of only the correct type of key blank.
chamber The holes in cylinder housings that house top pins (drivers) and springs.
change index The point on a key changeable combination lock dial ring to which the old and new combinations must be dialed when changing the combination.
change key The key that operates one lock in a masterkeyed system.
change key locks These are locks which can be operated by any key chosen from a large number of different keys that have been made for the purpose. The selected key is the only one which will open the lock until a change is deliberately made.
claw blot A type of deadbolt having pivoted claws which swing out sideways when the bolt is shot. Such locks are usually fixed to sliding doors.
clutch headed screw Threaded screws suitable for wood or metal with a shaped head allowing clockwise action to fix but no anticlockwise action to remove.
close shackle padlock A padlock, the body of which is built up so that the minimum amount of shackle is visible when locked. It offers improved security against forcing or use of bolt-croppers.
code A series of numbers or digits on a key or lock that specifies or references the particular cuts of the key to operate a lock.
collar The shoulder on the shank of a rim, mortice or bitted key, controlling the point at which the key comes to rest after being fully inserted into the lock. The collar is the datum point from which the key is measured.
combination lock An abbreviation of name for a keyless combination lock.
concealed fixing (of locks or latches) A strong backplate is screwed to the door, the lock case slides over it and is secured in position by two or more grub screws which are concealed whenever the door is closed. This is usually associated with security night-latches.
control key A key used to remove the core from an interchangeable core cylinder.
control shear line The shear line which allows operation of the control lug of an interchangeable core.
control sleeve The part of an interchangeable core retaining device which surrounds the plug.
cover The part of a lock or latch which covers the mechanism and is fixed, usually by screwing, to the case.
cross-bore A hole drilled into the face of a door where a bored or interconnected lockset is to be installed.
cross differ An error situation whereby change keys (servant keys) operate more than one lock when this was not intended.
cross rail The horizontal member of a door.
curtain An abbreviation for barrel and curtain.
cut cabinet lock A cupboard or drawer lock, the flange of which is recessed into the edge of the drawer or door.
cuts A cut, or series of cuts, on the bit or blade of a key.
cylinder Usually the cylinder with inner co-axial plug which houses the pins, top pins (drivers), or disc tumblers and springs in the cylinder body.
cylinder housing With all component parts removed, this forms the main body or housing of a cylinder.
cylinder key A key for use with pin tumbler and wafer tumbler cylinder locks.
cylinder lock or latch Any lock or latch, the mechanism of which is contained in a cylinder.
cylindrical lockset A bored lockset whose latch or bolt locking mechanism is contained in the portion installed through the cross-bore.
cylinder rose (or ring) A shaped metal disc which surrounds the outer face of the cylinder of a cylinder mechanism assembly. It usually stands slightly proud of the outside face of door.
deadbolt A lock bolt, usually rectangular, that has no spring action, and that becomes locked against end pressure when fully projected.
deadlatch A lock with a beveled latch bolt that can be automatically or manually locked against end pressure when projected.
deadlock A lock having only a square-ended deadbolt operable from one or both sides by key, and occasionally from outside only by key, inside by thumb turn. Sometimes operable only from outside and with no inside keyhole, which is designated a single-entry deadlock.
deadlocking Pertaining to any feature which, when fully engaged, resists attempts to move the latch or bolt in the unlocking direction through direct pressure.
deadlocking latch A latchbolt with a deadlocking mechanism.
depth The depth of a cut is measured from the bottom of the blade up to the bottom of a cut. Depths are numbered starting with #0 (or sometimes #1) as the highest depth.
depth key A special key that enables a locksmith to cut blanks made from a particular lock according to a key code.
differs An abbreviation of "different combinations" or changes.
disc tumbler lock A cylinder lock having disc instead of pin tumblers.
door closer A device for closing a door or gate automatically after opening. There are numerous types available.
door viewer Optical device fitted through a door to enable observation without opening the door.
double-acting lever tumbler One which must be lifted a precise amount, neither too little nor too much to allow movement of a bolt.
double-bitted key One with a bit on each side of the shank.
double cylinder Pertaining to a lock with two keyed cylinders.
double cylinder deadlock A deadbolt lock whose bolt may be operated by a key from either side.
double feather spring Two separate feather springs, fitting closely together one inside the other. Alternatively both may be made form one length of material and remain joined at one end. A spring so made is more lively and likely to last longer than a single spring of thicker material.
double locking 1. By introducing a different cam arrangement into the action of a cylinder rim nightlatch it is possible to give a double or deadlocking facility at no extra cost. A simple opposite turn of the key in the outside cylinder deadlocks both bolt and inside knob simultaneously. This gives protection against the bolt-forcing and the glass or wood panel breaking intruder. 2. Also where a lever lock shoots its bolt by more than one turn of the key, thus doubling the distance of its shoot.
drilled-through spindle (for lock furniture) Usually shortened to DT. A spindle with a few holes drilled at each end, one of which accepts the screw passing through the neck of the knob (or lever handle) in the door furniture.
drill-pin (sometimes pin) A fixed stump or pin in a lock onto which the hollow shank of a pipe key fits when inserted to operate the lock.
drivers top pins. The pins in a lock that sit on top of the lower pins and rest against the springs.
drop 1. In drawer, chest, box or similar cabinet locks, the vertical distance from the outside face of the top edge or selvage to the center of the keyhole. 2. Sometimes this term is used for a keyhole cover an a padlock.
ear of key or shoulder The projecting stop on one or both edges of a pin tumbler or other key near the bow to prevent the key from being pushed too far into the lock.
easy actionA lock is designed so that only light spring pressure is required to move the bolt ; additional spring pressure is required to move the follower and lock furniture. This is necessary especially when lock furniture comprises of lever handles, the handles then return to their correct position.
edge-bore
effective plug diameter
en suiteTo indicate that locks are incorporated in a master keyed system or keyed alike en-suite.
escutcheonThe cover for the key hole of a mortice or similar lock.
extractor
face plate The outer of a double forend. A strip of metal fixed to the inner forend, thus forming a double forend.
false notches or false gating 1.The notches in the bar of the levers and the bolt stump of some locks to improve the security against attempted picking. 2. Cuts or notches which are put in some keys to give the appearance of greater intricacy although they serve no useful purpose.
final exit door The exit door through which entry must later be obtained, and so cannot be bolted. It is usually the front entrance door or final means of exiting.
flat steel key A key which is completely flat on both sides, usually used for warded or lever tumbler locks.
flush bolt A door which can be recessed flush into the edge or face of a door.
follower That part of the latchbolt or springbolt mechanism containing a square hole to admit the spindle (to which furniture is attached) which withdraws the springbolt when turned. It has one or two projections or horns which act on the bolt foot.
forend That part of the lock or latch through which the bolt(s) protrude, and by which the lock or latch is fixed to the door.
four-way lock A rim lock so made that it can be fitted as either a right hand or left hand installation on doors opening either inwards or outwards, without alteration, except that in some types the springbolt may need reversing.
full mortise Pertaining to a method of installation in which only the face plate and trim is exposed. The lock case is installed in a pocket in the door or drawer.
full rebated(lock or forend) A mortice lock or latch with a specially shaped forend and striking plate to suit the shaped meeting edge of a single door which overlaps the door frame or a pair of doors which overlap each other - and such overlap or rebate is at the centre of the door thickness.
full width padbar Usually purpose made, a steel bar spanning the full width opening of a door with supporting brackets or staples fixed to the frame and secured by a padlock.
furniture The additional items needed, which are screwed to one or both sides of the door to enable a lock or latch to be manually operated.
grand master key When a series of locks is divided into two or more sub-suites the key which controls all the sub-suites (i.e. all the locks in the entire complex) is called the grand master key.
great grand master key One higher in degree than a grand master key. It is used only in very special arrangements of master keyed locks.
grooves Long narrow milled out areas along the sides of the blade to allow the blade to bypass the wards in the keyway.
guards A guard is a fixed part inside a lock to prevent false keys from turning, or to prevent an instrument from reaching the bolt or levers.
gunmetal Another term for bronze.
hasp A hinged metal strap designed to be passed over a staple and secured in place.
hasp and staple A fastening in two pieces for a door or box to be secured by a padlock. The hinged part is called the hasp and shuts over the staple. For real security it is essential to use a hasp and staple with concealed fixing.
heel & toe locking Describes a padlock which has locking dogs at both the heel and toe of the shackle.
heel (of a padlock shackle) The part of a padlock shackle which is retained in the case when in the unlocked position.
hinge bolts Fixed steel protrusions fitted into the rear edge or hinge side of doors, closing into holes cut into the door frame, to protect from forced attack on the hinge side of the door.
hold back stop A thumb slide on the case of a cylinder rim nightlatch or in the forend of a cylinder mortice lock used either to hold back or alternatively deadlock the main bolt.
hollow post key A key with a bit projecting from a hollow cylindrical shaft.
hook bolt A lock bolt shaped in the general outline of a hook. Normally used on sliding doors or where spreading of the frame and door is a possible attack.
hookward key The ward is fixed in the lock case formed as part of a circle like a wheel ward, but with a return or flange so that a cut in the key to fit would be L shape.
horizontal lock A mortice or rim lock having the follower hole further from the forend than the keyhole, but in the same horizontal plane. Used when knob furniture is specified to prevent the barking of knuckles on the door frame.
imitation bma: An electro deposited powder or lacquer finish on metal to simulate as nearly as possible the genuine Bronze Metal Antique finish. It is known as lBMA.
impressioning: A means of fitting a key directly to a locked cylinder by manipulating a blank in the keyway and cutting the blank where the tumlbers have made marks.
interconnected lockset: A lockset whose trim provides a means of simultaneous retraction of two or more bolts which may also be operated independently.
jamb: The inside vertical face of a doorway.
keep or keeper: A term sometimes used, particularly in the North, for a staple or striking plate.
key change: A term sometimes used instead of "differ". The change or differ of the key is generally indicated by number, and sometimes numbers and letters marked an the bow.
key code: A series of numbers or digits on a key or lock that specifies or references the particular cuts of the key to operate a lock.
key steps or key depths: This term usually means the bolt step and lever steps of a key for a lever lock.
keyway: The part of the plug where you insert the key.
keyway grooves: Long narrow milled out areas along the sides of the blade to allow the blade to bypass the wards in the keyway.
latch: A mechanical device which automatically keeps a door closed until a deliberate action is used to retract it.
latchset: A latch complete with necessary furniture including a spindle, ready for fixing to the door.
lever handle: A piece of lock or latch furniture, usually on a rose or plate, for use as an alternative to a knob for operating the springbolt of a lock or latch. All British lever handles are spring-loaded to ensure the return to horizontal after use.
lever lock: Lock with levers that are each lifted to the correct level by a bit key or flat metal key to enable the lock to operate.
lever mechanism: A lock mechanism having, as its principle feature, one or more levers.
lever pack: A set of lever tumblers.
lever pivot: The stump in a lock on which the levers swing.
lever tumbler: Usually a flat, spring-loaded tumbler which pivots on a post.
link plate: The complementary member of box, desk and other locks which is fixed to the lid or some part of a cabinet, for example, and has one or more projecting links to enter the lock and engage the bolt.
lip (of striking plate): The projection on one side of a striking plate on the surface of which the springbolt of the lock or latch first strikes when the door is closed.
lock: Any device which prevents access or use by requiring special knowledge or equipment.
lockable bolt: A bolt that can be shot and locked in position by the use of a removable key.
locking latch: A latch with a bevelled springbolt or roller bolt which is capable of being lacked or secured, usually by key.
lockset: A lock complete with necessary furniture including a spindle, ready for fixing to the door.
locksmith: A person with the knowledge and ability to select, install, service and bypass all the components of an electrical or mechanical lock.
London strip: A steel bar fitted to the inside face of a door frame, shaped to accommodate the staple or striker of a rim latch lock.
long shackle (LS): A padlock shackle with a greater amount of clearance than the normal standard shackle.
lower pins: The pins of a lock that contact the cuts on the key. Also called bottom pins.
lubrication: On no account should oil be used to lubricate pin-tumbler cylinders. Graphite is the conventional lubricant for this mechanism.
master key A key which will open every lock in the master keyed suite.
master keyed (locks or latches) A lock or latch capable of being operated also by a master key as well as its own change or servant key.
master pins Small pins sometimes called wafers to build up chamber pin loading in pin tumbler master keyed cylinders.
mechanism (of locks or latches) The arrangement of the component parts and the manner in which they perform to achieve the required security and differing when operated by its key.
mortise A hole cut into the thickness of one edge of a door to receive a mortice lock or latch.
mortice lock (or latch) A lock or latch which is morticed to let into the thickness of the door from the meeting edge and held in position by screws through the forend.
narrow case lock or latch A rim lock or latch, the case of which is made specially narrow, usually less than three inches wide, for fixing to the narrow stile of a panelled or flush door.
nightlatch A rim or mortice latch with a bevelled springbolt or roller bolt which shoots when the door is closed, but can be withdrawn by key from outside and by knob or lever handle from inside.
nozzle A circular boss or ferrule containing the keyhole on some cabinet locks, including locker locks. Correctly relating to lever cabinet locks.
one-sided lock (single-entry) A lock which has a keyhole on one side only.
one-way action An action where the follower will turn only one way.
pan The removable mechanism chamber attached to the inside face of a safe door.
panel grilles Steel grilles made to size with various infills of expanded diamond mesh, square weldmesh or fancy infills, usually fitted internally.
peg ward A combination of wards resembling a sash ward but fixed by pegs to the lock case.
pins Usually the lower of each pair of tumblers in the pin tumbler cylinder mechanism. The upper are known as drivers.
pin stack The combination of a lower pin sitting beneath an upper pin. In master keyed locks, additional master pins may be located between the lower and upper pins.
pin tumbler mechanism The mechanism incorporated in the cylinder or body of a cylinder pin tumbler lock, latch or padlock.
pipe key A key with a flat bit and a hollow circular shank to locate on the drillpin. Used only on one-sided locks.
plug The part of the lock that you put the key into, and which turns to operate the lock.
pre-assembled lockset A lock designed to be installed into a cutout in the edge of a door. The lock body and most or all of its trim need no further assembly other than securing it to the door.
rack bolt A bolt, usually a door bolt, which is toothed so that it may be operated by a pinion.
radiused forend A lock forend which is shaped radically, for use on one of a pair of swing doors.
rebate The measurement of the stepped reduction or recess in theforend of a rebated lock.
rebated (lock or latch) A morticelock or latch with a forend specially shaped to correspond with the shaped meeting edge of the door for which it is intended. See "Full Rebated".
release A striker in Various forms to replace the lock strike and is operated electronically.
relocker A locking mechanism independent of any key operations, mounted remotely within a safe mechanism so as to relock the boltwork under certain forced attacks.
repeat differs That supply of differs which have been issued previously. This is usually associated with master keyed suites and where a replacement lock is required to have the same differ as the original.
reversed bolt (RB) A springbolt which has been turned round in its case to suit a door opening outwards instead of inwards. Great care should be taken to use this term RB only when ordering items which are required with the springbolt reversed.
rigid grilles Heavy duty, welded construction, rod or bar grilles, usually fitted externally or internally to the fabric of a building.
rim cylinder This relates to a pack which usually comprises the cylinder with plug, rose, connecting bar, two connecting screws and two keys.
rim lock A lock or latch typically mounted on the surface of a door or drawer.
roller bolt A springbolt made in the form of a roller, instead of being bevelled. It is recommended far more silent and easier closing of a door.
rose 1. A cylinder rose or ring in cylinder locks or latches. 2. In door furniture, it is the small plate to which the lever handle or knob is affixed and which is screwed to the door surface.
safe lock A general term for the many varieties of key operated and other locks for safes.
sash lock An upright mortice lock, consisting of a latch bolt and a key operated bolt.
sash ward Used in rim and mortic elocks, alone or in conjunction with levels for the purpose of obtaining or increasing the differs.
servant key The change key of one (or more than one if of the same change) lock in a master keyed or grand master keyed suite.
set screw One which tightens or fastens another part after assembly or adjustment.
scotch spring lock A two-bolt rim lock with the reversible springbolt above or below the horizontal plane of the follower.
shackle The part of a padlock which passes through an opening in an object or fits around an object and is ultimately locked into the case.
shank(of key) The part of a pin or pipe key between the bow and the end, excluding the blade.
shear line The dividing line between the plug and the shell (the height to which the tops of the lower pins must be raised to open the lock).
shell The outer part of the lock that surrounds the plug.
shoot (of bolt) The distance a springbolt moves under the action of its spring.
shoulder(or bow stop) The edge of the key that touches the face of the lock to define how far the key is inserted into the lock.
side bar This is in addition to the existing pin or disc mechanism, and is a bar usually along the length of the mechanism and does not allow rotation until the mechanism is correctly lifted and can be directly controlled by the key.
side wards Notches cut into the sides of bitted keys so fashioned to enable the key to turn.
single-acting lever tumbler A lever tumbler which must be moved a minimum distance to allow travel of a bolt, but cannot be moved so far as to restrict travel of the bolt.
skeleton key Any non-cylinder key whose bit, blade, and/or post is cut away enough to allow it to enter and turn in locks with different ward arrangements. There is no universal skeleton key. Skeleton keys cannot be made for lever and cylinder lock mechanisms.
sliding grilles Steel sliding grille gates in single or double leaf, running on top and bottom guide tracks, locked by padlock or integral lock.
sliding lever A Lever which slides between or on guides instead of swinging on a pivot.
spacer A distance piece of thin metal placed between the levers of some locks.
spacing The term used to describe the horizontal distances across a key blade or bit.
spindle That part of the door furniture usually of square section which passes through the follower hole and is fitted to the knob(s) or lever handle(s) to operate the springbolt.
spiral spring A spring made of wire to approximately V shape like a feather spring; with one or more coils formed at the apex of the V to fit over a stump in the lock case.
spool pin A pin that has a groove cut around it's periphery. The groove is intended to catch at the shear line as a deterrent to picking.
spoon The flattened end of a padlock shackle containing the bolt hole or slot which the bolt enters.
spring-loaded Moved under the control of, or against the pull of, a spring fixed at one end.
spring shackle padlock A padlock, the shackle of which springs open when unlocked, and is locked by snapping to.
springbolt Sometimes called the latchbolt. A bolt having the outer edge shaped by bevelling of the vertical face. It is a bolt which may be pushed back into the lock-case and will return to the extended position without mechanical assistance.
springlatch A latch with one bevelled springbolt which locks the door when shut. It is opened by key from the outside and by knob from inside.
steel lining Steel sheet linings applied to external or both faces of a door, usually screwed and bolted through.
stile A vertical member of a door.
stop knob (snib) A device incorporated in some latches and locking latches to hold the bolt retracted or deadlock the bolt when door is closed.
stop button(s) There are generally two in number. They are incorporated in the forend of certain cylinder mortice nightlatches or locks. One button, when depressed, renders the outside furniture inoperable and the other, when depressed, restores the power of operation. They are useful for privacy and on vestibule doors. They are sometimes referred to as "stopworks".
straight cabinet lock A cabinet lock, with no flange on the case, for flush fitting to cupboards and drawers.
striking plate Sometimes referred to as a "striker". It is a shaped flat metal plate fixed to the door frame or jamb with one or more bolt holes into which the bait or bolts shoot. There is a shaped projecting lip on one side to guide the springbolt., It is used with all mortice locks or latches, and with rim locks or latches with reversed springbalt on an outward opening door.
sub grand master key A key which will operate all locks in its own main group or (sub-grand suite) of a grand master keyed system.
sub master key A key which will operate all locks in its own smaller group (or sub-suite) of a grand master keyed system.
suite (of locks) A group or collection locks and/or locking latches and padlocks of different types and changes incorporated together under a master key or grand master key.
talon The gap that is formed by two curves to the radius of the bolt step of the key in a deadbolt lathe or runner of a lever lock where the key engages the bolt.
throw The distance a deadbolt moves under the action of its key.
thumb turn A small fitting, on the inside of a mortice lock, which is gripped between thumb and finger to operate the deadbolt. It should not be used on glass-or wood-panelled doors.
till lock A drawer lock, or more correctly a cabinet lock, having a springbolt that shoots upwards and a vertical keyhole. It is self-closing and is unlocked by key.
time lock A clockwork or electric timing device which disallows operation of a lock or the opening of a door on safes or strongrooms.
tip The very end of part of the key that you stick into the lock first.
toe (of a shackle) That part of the shackle which may be removed from the padlock body.
top master key The highest level masterkey that fits all the locks in a multi-level masterkeyed system.
top pins The pins in a lock that sit on top of the pin stack.
tubular key cylinder A cylinder whose tumblers are arranged in a circle and which is operated by a tubular key.
tubular lockset A bored lockset whose latch or bolt locking mechanism is contained in the component installed into the edge bore.
tumbler A movable detainer which must be lifted before the bolt of a lock can move.


lock key hasp latch cam bolt padlock pin-tumbler wafer ward warded keyway pins  
-- https://www.londonlocks.com/glossary/
Abus - High quality lock and security brand manufacture
Access Control - any barrier or device, either natural or man made, that limits or prohibits, free or unlimited access
Access Control Cylinder - a replacement for a mechanical cylinder which incorporates electronic access control and allows the original host lock to function without additional wiring or hardware modifications
Access Control Key Fob - any device other than a key designed to allow a token to be used and carried on a key ring
Active Leaf Door - the single door of a pair on which the active or locking hardware is mounted
Actuator - a device, usually connected to a cylinder, which, when activated, may cause a lock mechanism to operate
After Hours Depository - a secure locker or safe where items of value can be left out of hours
Alarm System - a system of electrical and/or electronic components which detect and report dangers, such as fire or intrusion
Anti Strike Plate - A device fitted on to the door or frame to stop the bolt or latch from being attacked.
Architectural Hardware - describes all fittings to a door, window or house. Such as - a letter box, house numbers, handles, door knobs, hinges etc
Attack Resistant - design qualities of a product that render brute force physical defeat methods less effective or ineffective
Automatic Closing - pertaining to a door which is equipped with a door closer, or other device to close it without manual intervention. Frequently found in Life Safety and fire code requirements.
Automatic deadbolt - a deadbolt designed to extend itself fully when the door is closed
Auxillary Lock - any lock installed in addition to the primary lock set
Back Plate - a thin piece of metal, usually with a concave portion, used with machine screws to fasten certain types of cylinders to a door
Back Check - the resistance provided by a door closer as a door is opened
Back Set - the distance between the centre of a cross-bore and the bolt edge of a door or drawer
Ball Catch - a latch which uses spring pressure to force a ball bearing into a recess in its strike
Barrel Bolt - a surface mounted slide bolt which has a cylindrical shape
Barrel Key - a type of bit key with a hole drilled into the shank from the tip
Bell Box (sounder box) - the protective enclosure for a bell or other alarm sounding device
Bicycle Padlock - a padlock with sufficient shackle clearance to secure a bicycle
Bike Lock - A lock designed especially for lock a bike. modern bike locks use tough metals that prevent hack sawing.
BI Fold Door - a door with two or more sets of hinges, the additional set(s) allows the door to have an accordion action when opened
Biometric Lock - of or pertaining to a lock with a hybrid mechanism, part of the mechanism identifies a physical attribute such as finger print, voice print, etc. while another part is a mechanical mechanism
Bit - the part of the key which serves as the blade, usually for use in a warded or lever tumbler lock
Bit Height - a measurement from the post of a bit key outward to the end of the bit
Bit Key - a key with one or more projecting bits
Bit Thickness - a measurement of the bit from one side to the other side
Bit Width - as inserted into a lock, a measurement from the leading edge to the trailing edge of a bit
Bitting Depth - the depth of a cut which is made into the blade of a key
Bitting Position - the location of a key cut
Blade - the portion of a key which may contain the cuts and/or millings
Blank - an uncut key
Body - the part of a lock assembly into which all the operating components are mounted, see also case
Bolt - any movable projection which blocks the movement of one object relative to another
Bow - the portion of the key which serves as a grip or handle
Bow Stop - a type of stop located near the key bow
Bow to Tip - a specification that a bitting combination is recorded starting at the bow and proceeding to the tip
Bullet Lock - a lock used mostly on shutters. Once the lock has been inserted into its housing it locks automatically. only unlocked with a key. Widely used in the UK on shop fronts.
Bump Key - a lock picking key with uniform steeples between cuts that is forced further into the lock via impact
Burglar Alarm - a system designed to detect and report conditions, which may indicate intrusion or attempted intrusion
Burglar Resistant - of or pertaining to a security container designed to resist forcible entry for a specified period of time determined by the rating of the container
Button Know - the knob in a key-in-knob lock that includes a push or turn button
Bypass Key - the key which operates a key override cylinder
Bypass Tool - a device that neutralizes the security of a locking device, or its application hardware, often taking advantage of a design weakness
Cam - a lock or cylinder component which transfers the rotational motion of a key or cylinder plug to the bolt works of a lock 2. the bolt of a cam lock
Cam Lock - a complete locking assembly in the form of a cylinder whose cam is the actual locking bolt
Card Access System - an access control system that utilizes a controlled security card as the credential
Card Holder - a person to whom a card has been issued
Card Reader - a device which interprets coding resident on or in cards
case - the housing or body of a lock
Case Cover - the portion of a lock case which is designed to be removable to allow access to the mechanism
Casement Window - a window with a sash which pivots or swings to open
Case Ward - any ward directly attached to or projecting from a lock case
Catch - any device that holds a door closed and may be released by simply pushing or pulling on the door
CCW - Counter Clockwise
Central Locking - a location designed for the express purpose of processing status signals for multiple alarm systems
Combination - the group of numbers which represent the bitting of a key and/or the tumblers of a lock or cylinder
Combination Lock - a lock which is operated by local input of a specific series or sequence of numbers or letters
Combination Wheel - a wheel type tumbler in a combination lock
Contact Point - the area on each side of the drive cam gate that the lever nose makes contact with. Most locks have a left contact point and a right contact point.
Contact Switch - electrical, magnetic or mechanical device that triggers a circuit(s) to open or closed depending on the application
contactless Smart Card - a card, conforming to the physical characteristics specified in ISO 7813 &amp; 10536, which contains one or more integrated circuits and does not use contacts to obtain power and allow interface to external equipment
Cupboard Latch - a latching mechanism typically surface mounted to the outside of cabinet doors or drawers
Cut Edge - the part of the key blade which contains the cuts
Cut Key - a key which has been bitted or cut to fit a lock
Cylinder - a complete operating unit which usually consists of the plug shell, tumblers, springs, plug retainer, a cam/tailpiece or other actuating device, and all other necessary operating parts
Cylinder Guard - a protective cylinder mounting device
Cylinder Key - a broad generic term including virtually all keys for pin and disc tumbler locks
Cylinder Lock - any lock that is operated by a cylinder key
Cylindrical Lock Set - a bored lock set whose latch or bolt locking mechanism is contained in the portion installed through the cross-bore
Deadbolt - a bolt, which requires a deliberate action to extend, and which resists end pressure in the unlocking direction when fully extended
Deadlock - a lock which incorporates a deadbolt
Deadlocking - pertaining to any feature which, when fully engaged, resists attempts to move the latch or bolt in the unlocking direction through direct pressure
Deadlocking Latch - a latchbolt with a deadlocking mechanism
Decode - to determine a key combination by physical measurement of a key and/or cylinder parts
Degree of Rotation - a specification for the angle at which a cut is made into a key blade as referenced from the perpendicular; e.g., right (R or 2), left (L or 1) or center (= perpendicular) (C). This specification is typically used for some high security keys.
Delayed Action Closer - one which has a specfic hold-open interval before moves a door toward the latching position
Dimple Key - a key whose cuts are drilled or milled into its blade surfaces. The cuts normally do not change the blade silhouette.
Door Closer - a device designed to regulate the closing of a door automatically by various means
Door Puller - a tool designed to open a safe deposit box by forcibly pulling the door and breaking the lock
Door Viewer - a device with one or more lenses, mounted in a door at eye level, which allows a limited view through a door
Double Bitted Key - a key typically bitted on two opposite surfaces
Double Locking - of or pertaining to a lock with one or more bolts with different functions, typically a latch and a deadbolt
Double Throw Bolt - a deadbolt that has two distinct extended positions, both of which are deadlocked
Drawback Lock or Latch - a latch/lock whose latch is disengaged by pushing or pulling an actuator toward the hinge side of the jamb
Drill Point - the exact measurement of the location used to drill a locked up container to effect an opening
Dummy - pertaining to any type of non-active device applied for aesthetic purposes
Duplicate Key - any key reproduced from a pattern key
Dust Cover - a device designed to prevent foreign matter from entering a mechanism through the key-way
Electric Strike - an electro-mechanical strike, which secures or releases the latch via applied current
Electronic Access Control - access control that uses electricity
Emergency Code - in an electronic lock, a factory-set or user-set code or combination that will open the lock a predetermined number of times
Emergency escape mechanism - an exit device for a vault
Engineers Key - a selective master key which is used by maintenance personnel to operate many locks under different master keys in a system of three or more levels of keying
Entry/Exit Delay - an alarm or access control feature which allows a specific time lapse between the activation of a switch and the activation of a secondary component
Escutcheon - a surface mounted trim which enhances the appearance and/or security of a lock installation
Espagnolette - a top and bottom locking system with hooks at either end which rotate to draw a door or window fully closed
Exit Device - a door lock/latch mechanism which releases in the direction of exit travel via a bar or panel extending across the major width of the door
Exit Door - 1. a door which has no provision for ingress, 2. a door which fills some or all the code requirement for safe egress of the occupant load from a building or portion of a building
Extractor Key - a tool which normally removes a portion of a two-piece key or blocking device from a key-way
Face Plate - the finished, removable plate which covers the front of some locks
Factory Original Key - the cut key furnished by the lock manufacturer for a lock or cylinder
Fail Safe - a feature of a security device designed to release, for safety purposes, during a power loss
Fail Secure - a feature of a security device designed to remain locks for security purposes during a power loss
Finish - a material, coloring and/or texturing specification
Fire Alarm - a system designed to detect and report conditions, which may indicate presence of a fire
Fire Door - a door constructed to provide a specific degree of fire protection
Fire Door assembly - any combination of a fire door, frame, hardware and other accessories, that together provides a specific degree of fire protection to the opening
Fire Exit Hardware - exit devices, which may legally be installed, on fire doors. Distinguished from other exit devices because it: 1.is labeled for both fire and panic and; 2.has no means of locking the latch in a retracted position
Fireman's Key - a key used to override normal operation of elevators, bringing them to the ground floor
First Generation Key - a key which was duplicated using a factory original key or a code original key as a pattern
Floor Safe - a security container designed for mounting below floor level with the top surface flush with the finished floor
Flush Bolt - a non-keyed deadbolt, with a one piece escutcheon/faceplate, typically mounted flush to door surfaces
Forced Entry - entry or bypass techniques which leave obvious damage to the lock or enclosure
French Doors - a set of double doors composed of many small glass panes and narrow stiles
Garage Door Lock - a rim lock mechanism designed for use on an overhead door, which mechanism has a spring loaded bolt which automatically locks the door's bolt mechanism
Gate - a notch cut into the edge of a tumbler to accept a fence or sidebar
Grand Master Key System - a master key system which has exactly three levels of keying
Great Grand master Key System - a master key system which has exactly four levels of keying
Handed - pertaining to hardware which is manufactured only for application on doors with a specific orientation
Handle Set - a complete lock or latch assembly which incorporates a pitcher handle
Hard Plate - a tempered barrier placed between the lock and the outside of a safe to inhibit drilling
Hasp - a hinged metal strap designed to be passed over a staple and secured in place
High Security Cylinder - a cylinder which offers a greater degree of resistance to drilling or other forms of forcible entry and one or more of the following: picking, impressioning, or key duplication
High Security Key - a lock operating device which offers additional defense against its duplication, and/or provides integral features precluding bypass/neutralization of a lock
Hold Open - a function of self latching hardware which allows a lock to be set in a non-latching mode. A function of a door closer, or separate hardware device, which allows the door to be retained in an open position
Hold Back - a function of some self latching locks which allows selective retention of the bolt to prevent latching when the door is closed
Hollow Metal Door - typically a door made of sheet metal on all surfaces and lightly reinforced to make it rigid
Hook Bolt - a lock bolt shaped in the general outline of a hook. Normally used on sliding doors or where spreading of the frame and door is a possible attack.
Hybrid Locking System - a locking system which derives its security from two or more different technologies operated by the same key in one device, e.g. mechanical/electronic, mechanical/magnetic, etc.
Jamb - the vertical components of a door frame
Jimmy - "to jimmy" a door is to open it by means of force.
KA - Keyed alike
KD - keyed different
Keep - recess a bolt or latch with sit in when lock is locked.
Key - a properly combinated device which is, or most closely resembles, the device specifically intended by the lock manufacturer to operate the corresponding lock
Key Blank - any material manufactured to the proper size and configuration which allows entry into the key-way of a specific locking device and may then be bitted to become an operating key for the device
Key Cabinet - a cabinet with hooks, velcro, or other means designed to store keys systematically
Key Coding machine - a key machine designed for the production of code keys. It may or may not also serve as a duplicating machine.
Key Cut Profile - the shape of a key cut, including the cut angle and the out root shape
Key Duplication Machine - a key machine which is designed to make copies from a pattern key
Key Extractor - a tool designed for use to remove a broken or stuck key from a lock
Key Gauge - a usually flat device with a cutaway portion indexed with a given set of depth or spacing specifications. It is used to help determine the combination of a key.
Key Holder - a person to whom a key has been issued
Key in Knob Cylinder - a cylinder used in a key-in-knob lock set
Key in Knob Lock Set - any lock set with a key operated cylinder in one or more knobs
Key Lock - pertaining to a device operated by a mechanical key, as opposed to combination, electronics, etc.
Key Machine - any machine designed to cut keys, See also "key coding machine" and "key duplicating machine."
Key Manipulation - manipulation of an incorrect key in order to operate a lock or cylinder
Key Override - 1. a provision allowing interruption or circumvention of normal operation of a combination lock or electrical device
Key override - 2. adj. of or pertaining to such a provision, as in "key override cylinder"
Keyed Alike - of or pertaining to two or more looks or cylinders which have or are to have the same combination. They may or may not be part of a keying system
Keyed Different - of or pertaining to a group of locks or cylinders, each of which is or is to be combinated differently from the others. They may or may not be part of a keying system.
Keyed Random - of or pertaining to a cylinder or group of cylinders selected from a limited inventory of different key changes. Duplicate bittings may occur.
Key Hole - the opening through which a non-cylinder key must pass to enter a lock
Key Way - 1. the opening in a lock or cylinder which is shaped to accept key bit or blade of a proper configuration
Key Way - 2. the exact cross sectional configuration of a key-way as viewed from the front. It is not necessarily the same as the key section.
Kick Plate - a protective plate mounted on the bottom of a door to prevent damage to minimize damage to the door
Laminated Paldock - a padlock whose case is constructed of separate plates usually riveted together
Latch - a mechanical or magnetic door fastener which can automatically keep a door, gate, etc., closed
Latch - 2. v. engagement of a latch when a door, gate, etc. is pushed or pulled closed
Latch Bolt - a spring actuated bolt, normally with one or more beveled surfaces, which, when aligned with the strike, engages it automatically
Latch Guard - a plate or combination of interlocking pieces designed to block access to the edge of a latch when the door is shut
Leaf - 1.One half or section of a hinge 2. One door in a set of double doors 3. One section of a multiple section door
Lever - a part in a mortice lock. usually 5 lever in a UK insurance approved mortice lock, 2 or 3 levers in internal mortice locks. known collectively as a "lever pack"
Lock - any device which prevents access or use by requiring special knowledge or equipment
Lock Bumping - a picking technique that utilizes a configured key forcefully impacted into the key-way
Lock-in - of or pertaining to a combination lock that is inoperable because the last number of a combination is set in the forbidden zone
Lock Out - any situation in which the normal operation of a lock or cylinder is prevented
lock Set - a locking device, complete with trim, mounting hardware and strike
Locksmith - a person with the knowledge and ability to select, install, service and bypass all the components of an electrical or mechanical lock
Magnetic Contact - an electrical switch activated by magnetic attraction or repulsion
Magnetic Latch - a latch which uses magnetic force to stay engaged with its strike
Magnetic Stripe - a thin layer of material consisting of oriented ferromagnetic oxide particles held together by a resin binder and bonded to a non-magnetic surface such as paper or plastic
Manipulate - a dialling process typically used with combination locks to determine operational status of the lock, potential combinations or attempt to free the mechanism
Manipulation - a opening method for mechanical combination locks which uses the tolerances of that lock to determine an opening combination.
Manipulation Proof - a combination lock with features designed to prevent determining the combination without physical attack
Manufacturer Reset Code - in an electronic lock, a factory-set or user-set code or combination that will restore the factory default settings
Master Blank - a key blank used in a complementary key-way lock, on which only the master key combination is intended to be cut
Master Code - in an electronic lock, a factory-set or user-set combination that must be used before programming the lock
Master Disc - a special disc tumbler with multiple gates to receive a sidebar, see also "master pin" #1, see also "stepped tumbler".
Master Key - 1. a key which operates all the master keyed locks or cylinders in a group, each lock or cylinder usually operated by its own change key
Master Key 2 v. to combinate a group of locks or cylinders such that each is operated by its own change key as well as by a master key for the entire group, 3. n. an automotive key which operates all or most locks on a vehicle where there is also a valet key employed
Master Key System - 1. any keying arrangement which has two or more levels of keying
Master Key System - 2. a keying arrangement which has exactly two levels of keying
Master Keyed - 1. of or pertaining to a cylinder or group of cylinders which are or are to be combinated so that all may be operated by their own change key(s) and by additional key(s) known as master key(s) 2. a warded lock whose warding has been designed to allow different hierarchies of keys to operate
Metal Besk Lock - a cabinet lock with a vertically sliding bolt located at the rear of the cylinder
Milling Cutter - a key machine cutter with relatively coarse pitch teeth as opposed to a rotary file cutter
Mis-cut - of or pertaining to a key which has been cut incorrectly 2. n. a mis-cut key
MK - master key
MK'd - master keyed
Mortise - 1. v. to prepare by removing stock material from the edge of a door, drawer, frame or opening to create a recess which allows the flush fit or insetting of relevant lock or other hardware, 2. n. the cavity prepared by mortising, 3. adj. of or pertaining to a locking device designed to fit in a mortise preparation
Mortise Cylinder - a threaded cylinder typically used in mortise locks of American manufacture
Mortise Exit Device - an exit device designed for mortise installation
Mortice Lock Set - a lock set the case of which is designed to fit in a mortise in the edge of a door or drawer
Motion Alarm Lock - a security locking device which audibly alerts upon sensing motion
Movement - a mechanical, electronic or electro-mechanical timer, designed to inhibit the final unlocking of a combination lock or timelock
MP - manipulation proof
MR - manipulation resistant
MS - maximum security
MPL - Multi point lock, as used on UPVC doors in the UK. a lock which has more than one bolt which are thrown and withdrawn simultaneously, often in more than one direction
Mushroom Pin - a pin tumbler, usually a top pin, which resembles a mushroom. It is typically used to increase pick resistance
Neck - (of key) 1. the portion of a bit key between the shoulder and the bit(s) 2. the portion of a cylinder key between the shoulder and the bow
Negative Locking - locking achieved solely by spring pressure or gravity which prevents a key cut too deeply from operating a lock or cylinder
Night Latch - a rim mounted auxiliary latch bolt
Non Handed - pertaining to hardware that is manufactured in a way, which allows installation on doors of any orientation without requiring modification or adjustment to accommodate the door orientation
Non Original Key Blank - any key blank other than an original
Non Removable Key - a key which has one or more cuts on it which trap the key in the lock upon insertion
Non Reversible - door hardware whose hand cannot be changed in the field
Original Key Blank - a key blank supplied by the lock manufacturer to fit that manufacturer's specific product
Overhead Concealed Closer - a closer designed for installation out of view in the door header area
Overhead Stop - a door stop which contacts the door near the top
Overlifting - 1. a picking technique using a blank key to raise the tumblers to the top of the key-way
Overlifting - 2. a lock defeat process that uses a comb attack to bypass the normal locking combination
Overlifting - 3. a process that moves a spring loaded tumbler beyond the operating point
Override Code - in an electronic lock, a factory-set or user-set combination that will always open the lock
Override Combination - in certain locks with a user changeable combination, a second combination which allows access at all times. It is usually factory set and may not be field changeable.
Paddle Handle - a type of actuator which is relatively flat and operates the mechanism when pivoted on an axis near one end
Padlock - a detachable and portable lock with a shackle which locks into its case
Panic Button - any switching device in an alarm system designed to be activated by a person in a panic situation. It creates an immediate alarm condition
Paracentric - 1. of or pertaining to a key-way with one or more wards on each side projecting beyond the vertical centre line of the key-way to hinder picking 2. of or pertaining to a key blank made to enter such a key-way
Parallel Arm - a type of door closer and/or closer mounting which leaves the arm generally parallel to the door face when closed
Passage Set - a latch set
Passive anti theft system - an RFID security system used by Ford which enables the vehicle's ignition system when a properly recognized transponder key is validated
Passive Inferred Device - a device used to detect motion by detecting changes in heat
Passive re Locking Device - a device that places its bolts only upon attack to the safe or lock
Patented Unrestricted key-way - a specific key-way which is sold without restriction by a lock maker, but which retains patent protection against non-original key blank makers
Pattern Key - 1. an original key kept on file to use in a key duplicating machine when additional keys are required,
Pattern Key - 2. any key which is used in a key duplicating machine to create a duplicate key
Peep Hole - a small lens or opening which allows a limited view through a door
PIN - personal identification number, a series of numbers and/or letters associated with a particular individual as a means of identification
Pick - 1. a tool or instrument, other than the specifically designed key, made for the purpose of manipulating tumblers in a lock or cylinder into the locked or unlocked position through the key-way, without obvious damage.
Pick - 2. to manipulate tumblers in a keyed lock mechanism through the key-way, without obvious damage, by means other than the specifically designed key
Pick Gun - a machine designed to impact all of the bottom pins of a pin tumbler lock at exactly the same time and thereby bounce the top pins beyond the shear line
Pick Key - a type of manipulation key, cut or modified to operate a lock or cylinder
Pin - to install pin tumblers into a cylinder and/or cylinder plug, see also "pin tumbler
Pin Chamber - the corresponding hole drilled into the cylinder shell and/or plug to accept the pin(s) and spring
Pin Change - a combination lock that requires manually relocating the fly(s) to change a combination
Pin Kit - a type of keying kit for a pin tumbler mechanism
PIR - Passive infer-red
Plug - the part of a cylinder which contains the key way, with tumbler chambers usually corresponding to those in the cylinder shell
Plug Follower - a tool used to allow removal of the cylinder plug while retaining the top pins, springs, and/or other components within the shell
Plug Holder - a holding fixture which assists in the loading of tumblers into a cylinder plug
Plug Retainer - the cylinder component which secures the plug in the shell
Plug Spinner - a tool which rotates a picked cylinder plug so quickly in the desired direction that it cannot lock during its rotation
Pull Handle - trim for gripping to apply pulling force to a door
Push Plate - a generally flat and commonly rectangular trim mounted for hand contact to push open a door
Push Button Lock - a self contained lock with controls that must be pressed in a specific pattern or sequence to open the lock
Rake - a picking technique that attempts to use quick withdrawal of the pick to set the tumblers
Random Master Keying - any undesirable process used to master key which uses unrelated keys to create a system
Ratchet Lock - any lock which incorporates a ratchet device allowing locking in more than one position
Rated - of or pertaining to a product's compliance with one or more recognized standards such as UL.
Read - to decode a lock combination visually without disassembly of the lock or cylinder
Reader - a device used in an access control system to interrogate an electronic, magnetic or optical type of credential
Reference Position - usually a numerical designation for a tumbler position within a lock or a cut position on a key, typically counted from the stop
Rekey - to change the existing combination of a cylinder or lock
Relocking Device - any device intended to prevent normal opening of a safe as a result of an attack, two types are typically used, internal and external
Remote Release - a mechanism for permitting the unlocking of any lock device at a distance from the device
Removable Core - one whose design limits its installation to one or more specific types of housing or shell from a given manufacturer
Removable Cylinder - a cylinder which can be removed from a locking device by a key and/or tool
Removable Shackle - referring to a type of padlock which is unlocked by removing the shackle from the case
Repin - to replace pin tumblers, with or without changing the existing combination
Reset Code - in an electronic lock, a factory-set or user-set code or combination that will restore all factory default settings except the current reset code and the audit trail
Restricted - of or pertaining to a key-way and corresponding key blank whose sale and/or distribution is limited by the lock manufacturer in order to reduce unauthorized key proliferation
Reverse Key-Way - a key-way shape that is a mirror image of another
Reverse Strike - a strike used for rim mounted hardware used on reverse bevel doors
Reversible - pertaining to hardware that is manufactured in a way, which allows field assembly or adjustment to accommodate installation on doors with different orientations
Reversible Key - a usually symmetrical key which may be inserted either way up to operate a lock
RF - Radio frequency
RFID - Radio frequency identification
RH - Right hand
Rim Cylinder - a cylinder typically used with surface applied locks and attached with a back plate and machine screws. It has a tail piece to actuate the lock mechanism
Rim Lock - a lock or latch typically mounted on the surface of a door or drawer
Rose - a usually circular escutcheon
Safe - a substantial, secure container with varying degrees of security and/or fire resistance, used to store valuables against fire or theft
Safe Deposit - a typically key accessed container that requires dual key operation, usually located inside a vault
Safe Deposit Function - an operational characteristic of a lock which requires two separate keys working in tandem to open the lock
Safe Deposit Lock - a lock that typically requires two separate keys to access a container
Safe Door - that portion of a safe used to gain access to the contents of the safe in a normal day to day manner
Sash Lock - a type of door or window lock
SDB - Safe deposit box
Second Generation Duplicate - a key reproduced from a first generation duplicate
Self Closing - pertaining to doors or covers which have a continuous force applied in the closing direction
Semi Automatic Key Machine - a machine capable of duplicating keys with limited manual operations
Service Code - in an electronic lock, a factory set or user set code or combination that will open the lock one time
Shackle - 1. the part of a padlock, which passes through an opening in an object or fits around an object and is ultimately locked into the case 2. the portion of a restraint which fits around the wrist, ankle, neck, waist or thumb
Shank - 1 the part of a bit key between the bow and the stop; or, if there is no shoulder stop, the part between the bow and the near side of the bit, 2. a smaller diameter portion of a knob that is positioned between the larger portion of the knob and the rose or the door surface
Sheer Line - a location in a cylinder at which specific tumbler surfaces must be aligned, removing obstruction(s) which prevented the plug from moving
Shim - 1. n. a thin piece of material used to unlock the cylinder plug from the shell by separating the pin tumblers at the shear line, one at a time 2. v. to unlock a cylinder plug from its shell by using a shim
Shoulder - a projection from a key that can be any key stop other than a tip stop, see also "bow stop". Some shoulders on keys serve no functional purpose.
Shoulder Stop - one that serves as a stop to position the key in a lock or cylinder
Shrouded Shackle - a shackle which is protected from cutting or tampering by design or by the use of secondary shields Simple latch - a non-deadlocking latch
Simultaneous Retraction - a feature which allows retraction of both the deadbolt and latchbolt in the same operation
Skeleton Key - any non-cylinder key whose bit, blade, and/or post is cut away enough to allow it to enter and turn in locks with different ward arrangements
Slim Jim - a narrow strip of spring steel used to bypass the cylinder and unlock vehicle doors
Spindle - a component which transfers rotary motion from outside a lock or latch case to an inner mechanism
Split Spindle - a multi-piece spindle which allows a knob or lever to be installed on only one side of a door
Strike - a bolt receptacle typically mounted in the door jamb or the floor
Strike Reinforcer - a metal plate mounted behind a strike, using long screws to secure it to the door frame.
Tail Piece - an actuator attached to the rear of the cylinder, parallel to the plug, typically used on rim, key-in-knob or special application cylinders
Talon - the part of a lever lock bolt that is relieved to allow the key to enter and move the bolt.
Tamper Resistant Fastener - any one of several screws or nuts which have a specialized head, requiring a special access tool for removal
Tamper Switch - a sensor that signals when someone attempts to access the mechanism of a security device
TCP/IP - the system networks use to communicate with one another
Template - a pattern used to mark cutout locations for hardware installation
Thermal Lance - an instrument, used for cutting with a pure oxygen feed, that uses itself and the material being cut as fuel
Throw - the distance a bolt or latch projects from the faceplate or case of a lock in the extended position
Thumb Turn - a lock with a thumb piece to actuate the latch, a actuator which can be turned by thumb and forefinger
Thumbturn Cylinder - a cylinder with a turn knob rather than a key-way and tumbler mechanism
Time Delay - a feature which prevents operation until a set amount of time has elapsed. Activation normally begins when access, egress or other unlocking is desired.
Time Delay Lock - a lock that has a mechanism for preventing unlocking until a specific amount of time has passed
Tow (of a shackle) - that part of the shackle, which may be removed from the padlock body
Tolerance - the deviation allowed from a given dimension
Touch Bar - a type of exit device actuator which typically does not pivot and retracts the bolt with a minimum of pressure
Touch Pad - 1. an exit device actuator with a paddle shape 2. a remote door opener activator, typically electric or electronic, which facilitates handicap access
Two (2) in 1 Pick - a tool designed to open lever locks where bolt pressure and lever manipulation are applied simultaneously
Un Combinated - 1. of or pertaining to a cylinder which is or is to be supplied without keys, tumblers and springs 2. of or pertaining to a lock, cylinder or key in which the combination has not been set
Under Lifting - a process that moves a spring loaded tumbler to a point short of the operating point to form a shear line
USB Key - a hardware key connected to a USB port
Valet Key - an automotive key that operates all locks except storage compartments, on a vehicle where there is also a master key to operate all locks
VATS - Vehicle Anti-Theft System
VATS Key - a key for some General Motors vehicles which contains a resistor chip that must be qualified by the vehicle in order to run
Wafer Tumbler - 1. a flat tumbler which must be drawn into the cylinder plug by the proper key so that none of its extremities extends into the shell 2. a flat, usually rectangular tumbler with a gate which must be aligned with a sidebar by the proper key
Walk in Vault - a vault with a man door and open floor space inside
Wall Vault/Safe - a safe installed in a wall so that only the door and a frame is visible
Ward - a usually stationary obstruction in a lock or cylinder which prevents the entry and/or operation of an incorrect key
Ward Cut - a modification of a key which allows it to bypass a ward
Warded - having one or more wards
Warded Key - a key with ward cuts only, typically a bit key, flat steel key or corrugated key
Window Bug - an alarm system component designed to detect breaking glass
Yale (Linus Jr) - The American inventor of the pin tumbler mortise lock and its replaceable cylinder component.
 
 
-- http://mrlocksmithtraining.com/glossary/
Active Leaf: In a pair of doors, the door or doors in which the latching device is installed; also referred to as an Active Door.
AHJ: (abbr.) Authority having Jurisdiction.
All-section Key Blank: The key section that enters all the keyways of a multiplex key system. ALOA: Associated Locksmiths of America, Inc.
Alternating Parity: Most often describes the type of mathematical progression employed to develop master key systems. Parity refers to the bitting depths, “odd” or “even” numbers. In an alternating parity system, the bitting depths in any given bitting position can be odd or even numbered depths; sometimes called a “one-step” system.
Americans with Disabilities Act: This is a US federal law dealing with minimum standards of building accessibility, as well as other issues affecting individuals with disabilities.
Annunciator: A device that produces an audible and/or visible indication of light and/or noise, or a verbal message.
ANSI: (abbr.) American National Standards Institute, Inc.
ANSI Cut-out: A standardized cut-out for hardware furnished on many rated and non-rated doors and frames.
Anti-friction Latch: A device incorporated into the latch bolt of a lock for reducing friction between bolt and strike.
Associated Change Key: A change key which is related directly to particular master key(s) through the use of constant cuts.
Associated Master Key: A master key that has particular change keys related directly to its combination via the use of constant cuts.
Astragal (Overlapping): A vertical moulding that extends the full height of the door leaf and is applied to a door or pair of doors at their meeting edges. The astragal closes the clearance gap for the purpose of providing a weather seal, minimizing the passage of light between the doors, retarding the passage of smoke and flame during a fire, or maintaining security. Some types of astragals are flat pieces of aluminum, steel, or wood. Some astragals are designed to wrap around the lock stile of the door. Overlapping astragals are not permitted to be used on pairs of doors that are required to swing in the direction of egress travel. (See also Astragal [Split])
Astragal (Overlapping & Interlocking): A set of vertical mouldings that extend the full height of the door and is fastened to a door and jamb or a pair of doors that interlock for increased security from a forced entry attack.
Astragal (Split): A vertical molding attached to the meeting edges of each of the leaves of a pair of doors, for protection against weather. The split feature permits both leaves to be active. Split astragals can be surface-mounted, semi-mortised or full-mortised in the vertical edge of the doors. Split astragals are available with brush, pile, silicone, neoprene, or vinyl inserts to seal the gap between the meeting stiles in pairs of doors.
Back Check: The resistance provided by a door closer as the door is opened.
Backset: The distance from the vertical centreline of the leading edge of a door to the centerline of the lock cylinder measured horizontally.
Barrel Bolt: A surface-mounted slide bolt with a cylindrical shape.
Barrier-free: Refers to ensuring accessibility for seniors and people with disabilities.
Bell Crank: A mechanical device using a pivoting action to change the direction of a mechanical force or motion.
Bevel (of a door): The pitch on the leading edge of a door that allows clearance for closing.
Bevel (of a lock): The pitch of the face designed to match the bevel of a door. Some locks have an adjustable bevel.
Bezel: A threaded collar commonly used to secure certain cylinder or lock assemblies.
BHMA: (abbr.) Builders Hardware Manufacturers’ Association
Bible: The portion of the cylinder shell that normally houses the pin chambers, especially those of key- in-knob cylinders or certain rim cylinders.
Binary-type Cylinder or Lock: A cylinder or lock with a combination that only allows for two bitting possibilities in each position.
Bit: The part of the key that serves as the blade; usually for use in a warded or lever tumbler lock. Bit Key: A key with one or more projecting bits.
Bitting: The number(s) that represent(s) the dimensions of the key cuts OR the actual cut(s) or combination of the key.
Bitting Depth: The depth of a cut that’s made into the blade of a key.
Bitting Increment: Within a lock manufacturer’s key cutting specifications, the bitting increment is the uniform measurement from one successive bitting depth to the next i.e. with a bitting increment of .018″ and if a #0 cut measures .320″, a #1 cut will measure .302″, a #2 .284″, etc.
Bitting List: A list of all key combinations used within a system. The combinations are most often arranged in order of the blind codes, direct codes and/or key symbol.
Blank: See Key Blank
Blind Code: A designation, unrelated to the bitting, assigned to particular a key combination for future reference when additional keys or cylinders may be needed.
Block Master Key: The level-one master key that operates one block of changes in a key bitting array of a standard progression format master system.
Bolt: Any moveable projection that blocks the movement of one object in relation to another. Boltworks: The combination of bars, rods, plates and linkages in a safe door designed to hold the door in the locked or unlocked position depending on the status of the lock itself OR any part of a lock other than a cylinder, turn piece, or operating handle that affects the movement of, or the ability to, move the bolt.
Bond Box: The removable container within a safe deposit box compartment.
Bore: To make a hole in or through, especially with a revolving tool. (See “Edge Bore” and “Cross Bore”)
Bored Locks: Any lock that requires a hole cross-bored through the door into which the lock is installed.
Building Master Key: A key that operates all or most master keyed locks in a given building.
Bump Key: A lock picking key with uniform steeples between cuts that is forced further into the lock via impact.
Cam: A lock or cylinder component that transfers the rotational motion of a key or cylinder plug to the bolt works of a lock OR the bolt of a cam lock.
Cam Lock: A complete locking assembly in the form of a cylinder whose cam is the actual locking bolt. Cane Bolt: A surface-mounted deadbolt designed to be moved by hand via a 90o bend in the bolt that serves as a handle.
Case: The housing of a lock, usually metal, that contains the lock mechanism.
Case Harden: To harden the surface of an iron-based alloy by carburizing and heat treatment, leaving the interior tough and ductile.
Center Case: The active chassis of a touch-bar or cross-bar exit device. Chamber: Any cavity in a cylinder plug and/or shell that houses the tumblers.
Change Index: The point on a dial ring to which the old and new combinations must be dialed when changing the combination.
Change Key: A key that operates only one cylinder or one group of keyed-alike cylinders in a keying system OR any device used to mechanically or electronically allow resetting of certain key or combination locks. (See also “Reset Key”)
Chassis: The part of a cylindrical lockset that contains the actuating mechanism and has a means for mounting trim and a bolt
Cloner: A device for reading and writing data to electronic or hybrid keys
Cloverleaf Cam: A style of mortise cylinder cam with three lobes: a ball-shaped longer center and angular projections on either side.
Code Book: A book in which indirect key codes can be referenced to their corresponding key bitting specifications.
Code Key: A key cut to a specific code rather than duplicated from a pattern key; may or may not conform to the lock manufacturer’s specifications.
Column Master Key: The level two master key that operates all changes in a column of blocks in a key bitting array of the standard progression formation.
Combination: The group of numbers representing the bitting of a key and/or the tumblers of a lock or cylinder.
Compensate Drivers: The action of selecting longer or shorter pins, depending on the length of the rest of the pin stack, in order to achieve a uniform pin stack height. (See also Graduated Drivers)
Concealed Vertical Rod Exit Device: A vertical rod exit device with rods and header/threshold bolts that are concealed within the door.
Constant Cut: Any bitting(s) identical in corresponding positions from one key to another in a keying system. These keys are usually grouped together within a given level of keying and/or linked with keys of other levels. (See also Rotating Constant)
Constant Parity: Usually used to describe the type of mathematical progression employed to develop a master key system. “Parity” refers to the bitting depths, i.e. “odd” or “even” numbers. In a constant parity system, all bitting depths in a given bitting position are either all odd or all even number depths; sometimes called a “two-step” system.
Continuous Duty: An electrical term referring to the sustainable application of power over extended periods of time.
Control Key: A key with a sole purpose to remove and/or install an interchangeable or removable core OR a bypass key used to operate and/or reset some combination type locks OR a key that permits disassembly of some removable cylinder locks.
Control Sleeve: The part of an interchangeable or removable core retaining device that surrounds the plug.
Control Lug: The part of an interchangeable or removable core retaining device that locks the core into its housing.
Controlled Cross Keying: A condition in which two or more different keys of the same level of keying and under the same higher level key(s) operate one cylinder by design; eg. XAA1 operated by AA2 (but not XAA1 operated by AB1).
Note: This condition could severely limit the security of the cylinder and the maximum expansion of the system when more than a few of these different keys operate a cylinder OR more than a few differently cross-keyed cylinders per system are required.
Core: A complete unit, often with a figure 8 shape, that usually consists of the plug, shell, tumblers, springs, plug retainer and spring cover(s); used primarily in removable and interchangeable core cylinders and locks.
Cremone Bolt: A surface-mounted, top and bottom locking, deadbolt mechanism operated in unison by a central handle; often made from decorative cast iron.
Cross Bore: Term referring to a hole drilled through the face of a door into which a lock is installed; used to differentiate between this hole and the edge bore.
Cross Keying: The deliberate process of keying a cylinder (usually in a master key system) to two or more different keys that would not normally be expected to operate together. (See also Controlled Cross Keying and Uncontrolled Cross Keying)
Cruciform: Of or pertaining to a key section or keyway; usually resembling a plus sign (+) or the letter “X”.
CSA: (abbr.) Canadian Standards Association
Current Transfer: A wiring device used to supply electrical current from a door jamb to door-mounted devices. Current transfers are in the form of door loops, concealed loops and electric transfer hinges. Cut: To make cuts into a key blade.
Cut Angle: A measurement, usually expressed in degrees, of the angle between the two sides of a key cut.
Cut Edge: The portion of the key blade that contains the cuts.
Cut Key: A key that has been bitted or combinated.
Cut Root: The bottom of a key cut.
Cut Root Depth: The measurement from the bottom of a cut in a key to the bottom of the key’s blade.
Cut Root Shape: The shape of the bottom of a key cut. It may have a flat or a radius of a specific dimension or be a perfect “V”.
Cutter: The part of a key machine that makes the cuts into the key blank.
Cutter Guide: That part of a key machine that follows the cuts of a pattern key or template during duplication.
CVR: (abbr.) Concealed vertical rod exit device
CVC: (abbr.) Concealed vertical cable exit device
Cylinder : The complete operating unit; usually consisting of the plug, shell, tumblers, springs, plug retainer, a cam/tailpiece or other actuating device, and all other required operating parts.
Cylinder Blank: A dummy cylinder with a solid face and no operating parts.
Cylinder Clip: A spring steel ‘u-shaped’ device used to secure some types of cylinders.
Cylinder Collar: A plate or ring installed under the head of a cylinder to improve appearance and/or security. (See also Cylinder Guard)
Cylinder Guard: A cylinder collar designed to protect the cylinder from prying and wrenching attacks. Cylinder Key: A broad generic term including virtually all pin and disc tumbler keys.
Cylindrical Lock: A bored lockset with latch or bolt locking mechanism contained in the portion installed through the cross-bore.
Day Gate: A barrier used to restrict passage during normal business hours, normally used at a vault entrance
Deadbolt: A bolt requiring a deliberate action to extend, and that resists end pressure in the unlocking direction when fully extended.
Deadlatch: A spring latch designed with an anti-shim feature that resists attempts to push it back into the retracted position when the door is closed and the deadlocking feature is activated by its position in the strike.
Deadlock: A lock that incorporates a deadbolt.
Deadlocking: Pertaining to any feature that, when fully engaged, resists attempts to move the latch or bolt in the unlocking direction through direct pressure.
Declining Step Key: A key with cuts progressively deeper from bow to tip.
Decode: To determine a key combination by physical measurement of a key and/or cylinder parts.
Degree of Rotation: A specification for the angle at which a cut is made into a key blade as referenced from the perpendicular eg. right (R or 2), left (L or 1) or center (= perpendicular) (C). This specification is typically used for high-security keys.
Delayed Action Closer: A door closer function with a specific hold-open interval before it moves a door toward the latching position.
Delayed Egress: An exit that will not open until a specified amount of time has elapsed after actuation.
Department Master Key: A master key operating all or most master keyed locks of a given department.
Depth Key Set: A set of keys used to make a code original key on a key duplicating machine to a lock manufacturer’s given set of key bitting specifications. Each key is cut with the correct spacing to one depth only in all bitting positions, with one key for each depth.
Derived Series: A series of blind codes and bittings directly related to those of another bitting list. DHI: (abbr). Door and Hardware Institute
Dial: The typically rotatable member of a combination lock be used to differentiate locations on the combination wheels and cause operation of the lock OR the act of turning or rotating a dial.
Dial Ring: An escutcheon for a combination lock dial. Dimple: A key cut in a dimple key. (See also Dimple Key)
Dimple Key: A key with cuts drilled or milled into its blade surfaces. The cuts normally do not change the blade silhouette.
Direct Code: A designation assigned to a particular key that includes the actual key combination. Direct Drive: Of, or pertaining to, a combination lock with the drive cam mounted on the dial’s spindle shaft.
Disc Tumbler: A flat tumbler that must be drawn into the cylinder plug by the proper, ensuring that none of its extremities extend into the shell OR. a flat, usually rectangular tumbler with a gate that must be aligned with a sidebar by the proper key; also referred to as a wafer tumbler.
Display Key: A special change key in a hotel master key system allowing access to one designated guest room, even if the lock is in the shut-out mode. It may also act as a shut-out key for that room.
Dogging: To fix an exit device or latch lock in a position where the latch remains retracted.
Dogging Cylinder: A key-operated cylinder used to dog an exit device.
Dogging Device: In an exit device, a mechanism used to temporarily disable the latch from locking.
Dogging Key: Usually a hex wrench with a special head for convenience; used to activate the dogging mechanism on a panic exit device.
Dogging Screw: A screw used to dog an exit device.
Door Closer: A device designed to regulate the action of a door automatically by various means.
Door Closer Arm: The arm is the connection between the door and the closer, or the jamb and the closer.
Door Coordinator: A piece of hardware used on a pair of doors in order to hold the active door open until the inactive door is closed.
Door Holder: Devices designed to maintain a door in the open position.
Door Loop: A hollow metal flexible cable with a mounting plater on each end, designed to carry electrical cable from the door jamb to the door. (See also Current Transfer).
Door Pull: A handle mounted onto the door used to open the door.
Door Silencer: A bumper installed in the jamb stop to quiet the closing of a door.
Door Thickness: The dimension of a door measured from side-to-side along one edge.
Door Viewer: A device with one or more lenses, mounted in a door at eye level, allowing a limited view from the interior to the exterior of the door.
Door Schedule: See Hardware Schedule
Double-acting Closer: A door closer designed to be used on a double-acting door Double-acting Door: A door that may be pushed open from either side.
Double-acting Hinge: A hinge permitting movement of a door in either direction from the closed position.
Double-bitted Key: A key bitted on two opposite surfaces. (See also Single-bitted Key)
Double Cylinder Lock: A type of lock with two cylinders; one on the inside of the door and one on the outside, to activate the locking mechanism.
Double Pin: To place more than one master pin in a single pin chamber.
Drill Point: The exact measurement of the location used to drill a locked-up container to create an opening.
Drive-in: Pertaining to a latch or bolt with a round face.
Driver Spring: A spring placed on top of the pin stack to exert pressure on the pin tumblers.
Drop In: The gate area of the drive cam where the lever nose drops into; usually identified with a corresponding number on the dial.
Dual Custody: A function designed to require the presence of two persons with two different keys, combinations or codes to operate the same device.
Dummy Cylinder: A non-functional facsimile of a rim or mortise cylinder used for appearance only, usually to conceal a cylinder hole.
Dummy Trim: A non-active trim applied for aesthetic purposes.
Duplicate: To copy
Duplicate Key: A key reproduced from a pattern key.
Dust Box: A small box, usually made of plastic or metal, which fits behind a strike plate for the purpose of preventing debris from inside the door jamb, from entering the strike hole.
Dust Cover: A device designed to prevent foreign matter from entering a mechanism through the keyway.
Dust-proof Cylinder: A cylinder designed to prevent foreign matter from entering either end of the keyway.
Dust-proof Strike: A typically floor-mounted strike that has a spring-loaded internal plunger designed to keep the receptacle free of dust and debris.
Dutch Door: A door consisting of two separate leaves, an upper leaf and a lower leaf, that operate independently. The lower leaf frequently has a service shelf at its top.
Edge Bore: A hole drilled into the edge of a door in order to install the latch and/or bolt mechanism of a cylindrical or tubular lock.
EEPROM: (abbr.) Electrically erasable, programmable, read-only memory
Effective Plug Diameter: The dimension obtained by adding the root depth of a key cut to the length of its corresponding bottom pin, which establishes a perfect shear line. This is not necessarily the same as the actual plug diameter.
Egress: To exit
Ejector Hole: A hole found on the bottom of certain interchangeable cores under each pin chamber, that provides a path for the ejector pin.
Ejector Pin: A tool that drives all the elements of a pin chamber out of certain interchangeable cores.
Emergency Key: The key or tool that operates a privacy function lockset.
Emergency Master Key: A special master key that usually operates all guest room locks in a hotel master key system at all times, even in the shut-out mode. This key may also act as a shut-out key.
EMK: (abbr.) Emergency master key
End Case: Component of some exit devices which fastens to the door, near the hinge side, and provides an anchor point for that end of the bar. (See also Center Case) ENG: (abbr.) Symbol for an engineer’s key.
Engineer’s Key: A selective master key used by maintenance personnel to operate many locks under different master keys in a system of three or more levels of keying.
Entrapment Cylinder: A lock cylinder designed to trap a key that is inserted into it.
Escutcheon: A surface-mounted trim enhancing the appearance and/or security of a lock installation.
Exit Alarm: An annunciator that signals the opening of an exit door.
Exit Device: A door lock/latch mechanism that releases in the direction of exit travel via a bar or panel extending across the major width of the door.
Exit Door: A door that has no provision for ingress OR a door that fills some or all of the code requirement for safe egress of the occupant load from a building or portion of a building.
Exit Only: Hardware designed to secure an opening in such a way as to permit exit at all times but prevent entry at all times.
Extension Link: A device used to extend the backset of a spring latch or dead latch.
External 2 Track: A sidewinder key that is cut one place on each flat side of the key, flat to edge, creating 2 tracks on the key.
External 4 Track: A sidewinder key that’s cut in 2 places on each flat side of the key, flat to edge, creating 4 tracks on the key.
External Relocking Device: A device outside the lock case that prevents the safe door from being opened an attack. Typically two types are used, active and passive.
Extractor Key: A tool that normally removes a portion of a two-piece key or blocking device from a keyway.
Face Plate: Lock cover plate exposed in the edge of a door.
Factory Original Key: The cut key furnished by the lock manufacturer for a lock or cylinder.
Fail Safe: Functional description of an electric locking device that is unlocked when not energized. (eg.) in the event of a power failure), the device is safe (exit is still possible) See also “Fail Secure”.
Fail Secure: Functional description of an electric locking device which is locked when not energized. (eg.) in the event of a power failure), the device is secure. (See also Fail Safe)
False Gate: A gate in a part of the operating mechanism, that is not formed deeply enough to allow operation of the lock.
Fence: A projection on a lock bolt which prevents movement of the bolt unless it can enter gates of properly aligned tumblers OR any locking element other than a sidebar or shackle designed to enter a tumbler’s gate.
Finish: A material, coloring and/or texturing specification.
Fire Safe: An insulated safe designed to protect its contents from fire, rather than burglary.
Fire Door: A door constructed to provide a specific degree of fire protection.
Fire Door Assembly: Any combination of a fire door, frame, hardware and other accessories, that together provide a specific degree of fire protection to the opening.
Fire Exit Hardware: These are exit devices, which may legally be installed, on fire doors; distinguishable from other exit devices because they’re labeled for fire and have no means of locking the latch in a retracted position.
Fire Separation: Construction designed to limit the spread of fire in a structure.
Fireman’s Key: A key to override normal operation of elevators, bringing them to the ground floor.
First Generation Duplicate: A duplicated key from a factory original key or a code original as a pattern.
First Key: Any key produced without the use of a pattern key.
Five Column Progression: A process wherein key bittings are obtained by using the cut possibilities in five columns of the key bitting array.
Flexible Head Mortise Cylinder: An adjustable mortise cylinder that can be extended against spring pressure to a slightly longer length.
Floor Master Key: A master key that operates all or most master keyed locks on a particular floor of a building.
Floor Safe: A safe designed for mounting below floor level with the top surface flush with the finished floor; usually built into a concrete floor.
Flush Bolt: A locking bolt that, when installed within a door, is flush with the edge or face of the door. Fly: The part of a combination wheel pack or a drive cam that makes contact with a similar part on an adjacent wheel in the wheel pack and causes it to turn.
Follower: A tool used in the disassembly of pin tumbler cylinders, allowing for the removal of the cylinder plug while retaining the top pins, springs, and/or other components within the shell. The follower is so called because it is used to “follow” the plug as it is being removed.
Forbidden Zone: On a combination lock dial, a range of marks within which the last item of the combination must not be set to provide for proper lock operation.
Four Column Progression: A process wherein key bittings are obtained by using the cut possibilities in four columns of the key bitting array.
Front Drive: Of or pertaining to a combination lock with the drive cam located between the dial and the wheel pack
Function: A set of operating features for a particular type of lock or exit device that make it suitable for a specific application. The function is designated by a classification name or standards reference number. See ANSI or BHMA for a specific listing.
Fusible Link: A metal or plastic component designed to melt in the event of elevated heat, thereby releasing an attached device, such as a door closer hold-open or a relocking device.
Gate: A notch cut into the edge of a tumbler to accept a fence or sidebar. GGGMK: (abbr.) Great great grand master key (See below)
GGMK: (abbr.) Great grand master key (See below)
GMK: (abbr.) Grand master key (See below)
Ghost Key: A unintened key that opens one or more locks. Usually the result of a poorly designed Master Key System or improperly keyed lock.
Glass Relocker: A device employing a frangible plate intended to permanently incapacitate a security container’s normal opening mechanism if activated by physical attack on the container.
Graduated Drivers: A set of top pins of different lengths. Usage is based on the height of the rest of the pin stack, in order to achieve a uniform pin stack height. (See also Compensate Drivers)
Grand Master Key: The key that operates two or more separate groups of cylinders; each is operated by a different master key.
Grand Master Key System: A master key system with three levels of keying.
Grand Master Keyed: A cylinder which is to be keyed into a grand master key system.
Great Grand Master Key: The key that operates two or more separate groups of cylinders, each is operated by a different grand master key.
Great Grand Master Key System: A master key system with four levels of keying. Great Grand Master Keyed: A cylinder keyed into a great grand master key system.
Great Great Grand Master Key: The key that operates two or more separate groups of cylinders, each operated by different great grand master keys.
Great Great Grand Master Key System: A master key system with five or more levels of keying.
Great Great Grand Master Keyed: Of a pertaining to a lock or cylinder which is (or is to be) keyed into a great great grand master key system.
Guard Key: A key used in conjunction with a renter’s key to unlock a safe deposit lock. It is usually the same for every lock within the installation. The term “Guard Key” is typically used in reference to double-nose SD locks, while the term “prep key” identifies a key having the same function on single- nose SD locks. (See also Prep Key and Renter’s Key)
Guest Key: A key in a hotel master key system that’s normally used to unlock only the one guest room for which it was intended, but will not operate the lock in shut-out mode.
Guide: See Cutter Guide
Hand of Lock: The right or left hand the lock is presently set to, or what hand is required.
Handed: A term to indicate that a lock or door hardware product is intended for use on a specific hand of door, and cannot be used on any other hand of door, at least, not without some adjustment.
Hard Plate: A drill resistant metal plate, typically mounted under a lock in a safe to resist a drilling attack.
Hardware Schedule: A detailed list of the door hardware used on a particular job; includes the door sizes, locations, types of hardware, manufacturers, finishes, sizes and more . It should also include a keying schedule specifying how each locking device must be keyed.
Hasp: A hinged metal strap designed to be passed over a staple and secured in place.
Heel (of a padlock shackle): The part of a padlock shackle that is retained in the case when in the ‘unlocked’ position.
Heel & Toe Locking: A padlock with locking dogs at both the heel and toe of the shackle.
High Security Cylinder: A cylinder that offers a greater degree of resistance to any or all of the following: picking, impressioning, key duplication, drilling or other forms of forcible entry.
High Security Key: A lock operating device that offers additional defense against its duplication, and/or provides integral features precluding bypass/neutralization of a lock.
High Security Locks: Locks designed to resist unauthorized entry and provide a significant amount of key control.
Hinge: The joint on which a door or gate swings.
Hold Open: A function of a door closer, or separate hardware device that allows the door to be retained in an open position.
Hold Open Cylinder: A cylinder provided with a special cam that will hold a latch bolt in the retracted position when set by the key.
Holding Fixture: A device that holds cylinder plugs, cylinders, housing, and/or cores to facilitate the installation of tumblers, springs and/or spring covers.
Hollow Core Door: A door with an empty interior (except for rails) that holds the outer two sheets together.
Hollow Driver: A top pin hollowed out on one end to receive the spring; typically used in cylinders with extremely limited clearance in the pin chambers.
Horizontal Group Master Key: The two pin master key for all combinations listed in all blocks in a line across the page in the standard progression format.
Housekeeper’s Key: A selective master key in a hotel master key system that can operate all guest and linen rooms and other housekeeping areas.
Housing: The part of a locking device designed to hold a core.
Hub: The part of a lock or latch that is turned by the knob or handle to withdraw the bolt or latch.
Impression: The mark made by a tumbler on its key cut OR to fit a key by the impression technique.
Impression Technique: A means of fitting a key directly to a locked cylinder by manipulating a blank in the keyway and cutting the blank where the tumblers have made marks.
Inactive Leaf: In a pair of doors, the door that is secondary in usage and is normally locked by surface or flush bolts and is not key-controlled. Also referred to as an “Inactive Door”.
Incidental Master Key: A key cut to an unplanned shear line created when the cylinder is combinated to the top master key and a change key.
Increment: See Bitting Increment
Indicator: A device that provides visual evidence of a deadbolt that is extended or a lock that is in shut-out mode.
Indirect Code: A designation, unrelated to the bitting, assigned to particular key combination for future reference when additional keys or cylinders may be needed. Example: Ford Key Code FA2345 is cut on the code machine as “22104”
Individual Key: An operating key for a lock or cylinder that is not part of a keying system. Interchange: See Key Interchange
Interchangeable Core: A key removable core that can be used in all or most of the core manufacturer’s product line. No tools (other than the control key) are required for removal of the core.
Interlocking Pin Tumbler: A type of pin tumbler designed to be linked together with all other tumblers in its chamber when the cylinder plug is in the locked position.
Internal 4-Track: A sidewinder key cut with a centre cut in the middle of the flat of the key on each side on the with 2 combinations on each side of the cut; hence the name 4-track.
Jumbo Cylinder: A rim or mortise cylinder of 1 1/2″ diameter.
K: (abbr.) Symbol for “keys” used after a numerical designation of the quantity of keys requested to be supplied with the cylinders: e.g. 1k, 2k, 3k, etc. It is usually found in hardware/keying schedules.
KA: (abbr.) Keyed alike
KA/2, KA/3, etc.: Symbol used to indicate the quantity of locks or cylinders in keyed alike groups. These groups are usually formed from a larger quantity: eg. 30 cylinders KA/2. KA1, KA2, etc. Symbol indicates that all cylinders so designated are, or are to be, operated by the same key(s). The numerical designation indicates the keyed alike group or set.
KBA: (abbr.) Key bitting array KD: (abbr.) Keyed different
Key: A properly combinated device that is, or most closely resembles, the device specifically intended by the lock manufacturer to operate the corresponding lock.
Key Bitting Array: A matrix (graphic) display of all possible bittings for change keys and master keys as related to the top master key.
Key Bitting Punch: A manually-operated device that stamps or punches the cuts into the key blade, rather than grinding or milling them.
Key Bitting Specification: The technical data required to bit a given (family of) key blank(s) to the lock manufacturer’s dimensions.
Key Blank: Any material manufactured to the proper size and configuration that allows its entry into the keyway of a specific locking device. A key blank has not yet been cut.
Key Change: The combination of cuts in a key that enable it to operate the lock for which it was intended OR reference to a lock in which the combination can be changed through the use of a special key or tool without disassembling the lock.
Key Coding Machine: A key machine designed for the production of code keys. It may or may not also serve as a duplicating machine.
Key Control: Any method or procedure which limits unauthorized acquisition of a key and/or controls distribution of authorized keys OR a systematic organization of keys and key records.
Key Cut Profile: The shape of a key cut, including the cut angle and the cut root shape.
Key Cut(s): The portion of the key blade that remains after being cut and which aligns the tumbler(s).
Key Duplicating Machine: A key machine designed to make copies from a pattern key.
Key Gauge: A usually flat device with a cutaway portion indexed with a given set of depth or spacing specifications; used to help determine the combination of a key.
Key Interchange: An undesirable condition, usually in a master key system, whereby a key unintentionally operates a cylinder or lock. (See also Cross Keying, Controlled Cross Keying and Uncontrolled Cross Keying)
Key Locking Dial Ring: A dial ring containing a key lock to lock the dial and prevent rotation. Key Locking Dial: A dial ring that can be locked with a key to prevent rotation.
Key Machine: Any machine designed to cut keys. (See also Key Coding Machine and Key Duplicating Machine)
Key Manipulation: Manipulation of an incorrect key in order to operate a lock or cylinder.
Key Milling: The grooves machined into the length of the key blade to allow its entry into the keyway.
Key Override: A provision allowing for interruption or circumvention of the normal operation of a combinated lock or electrical device OR pertaining to such a provision, as in “Key Override Cylinder”.
Key Override Cylinder: A lock cylinder installed in a device to provide a key override function.
Key Retaining: Term used to describe a lock that will not allow its key to be removed while it is unlocked
eg. “Key Retaining Padlock”
Key Section: The exact cross-sectional configuration of a key blade as viewed from the bow toward the tip.
Keyor Keying Schedule: See Hardware Schedule
Key Symbol: A designation used for a key combination in the standard key coding system. e.g. A, AA, AA1, etc.
Key-in-Knob Cylinder: A cylinder used in a key-in-knob lockset. Also called a “KIK cylinder”.
Key-in-Knob Lockset: Any lockset with a key-operated cylinder in one or more knobs. Key-in-Lever Lockset: Any lockset with a key-operated cylinder in one or more lever handles.
Keyed Alike: Of, or pertaining to, two or more locks or cylinders that have, or are about to have, the same combination. They may, or may not, be part of a keying system.
Keyed Different: Of, or pertaining to, a group of locks or cylinders, each is, or is to be, combinated differently from the others. They may, or may not be, part of a keying system.
Keying Schedule: A detailed specification of the keying system, listing how all cylinders are to be keyed and the quantities, markings, and shipping instructions of all keys and/or cylinders to be provided.
Keyway: The opening in a lock or cylinder shaped to accept key bit or blade of a proper configuration OR the exact cross-sectional configuration of a keyway as viewed from the front; not always the same as the key section.
Kick Plate: A metallic plate used to protect the bottom of a door.
LFIC: Large Format Interchangeable Core.
Latch: A spring actuated bolt, normally with one or more beveled surfaces, that, when aligned with the strike, engages it automatically. (See also Deadlatch)
Lazy Pawl: A cam on automotive cylinders that does no turn until either the key operation or the interior locking devise rotates enough to contact the driver on the cam.
Leading Door Edge: The edge of the door opposite the hinges.
Leaf: One half or section of a hinge OR one door in a set of double doors OR one section of a multiple section door.
LOBC: (abbr.) Locked On By Combination; identifies a feature of some combination locks whereby the lock’s back cover cannot be removed unless the correct combination has been dialled – usually to a separate changing index.
Locking Mechanism: The part that stops access; can include the latch and/or the bolt. MACS: (abbr.) Maximum adjacent cut specification
Magnetic Rotating Device (MRD): A security device imbedded in the ignition lock of GM vehicles that uses Hall’s magnetic effect to detect when the ignition lock is broken and can then de-activate the ignition system of a vehicle.
Maison Key System: (from French, meaning “house” key system) A keying system where one or more cylinders are operated by every key (or relatively large numbers of different keys) in the system; eg. main entrances of apartment buildings operated by all individual suite keys of the building.
Manipulation-proof Lock: A combination lock designed to prevent identification of the combination without physical attack.
Master Keyed: Of or pertaining to a cylinder or group of cylinders that are, or are to be, combinated so all can be operated by their own change key(s) and by additional key(s) known as master key(s).
Master Pin: Usually a cylindrical-shaped tumbler, flat on both ends, placed between the top and bottom pin to create an additional shear line.
Master Ring: A tube-shaped sleeve located between the plug and shell of certain cylinders to create a second shear line. The plug is grooved around the body and the working key has corresponding notches cut into the bottom of the blade, allowing the key to turn in the cylinder.
Master Wafer: A special disc or wafer tumbler used in master keying, with dual or multiple key contact surfaces operating in conjunction with key blanks that have blades on opposite sides.
Maximum Adjacent Cut Specification: The maximum allowable difference between adjacent cut depths on a key.
Milling: The grooves cut into a key blank, along its blade.
Milling Cutter: A type of cutter used on a key machine that removes metal very rapidly from a key blank or a type of cutter used in a key blank factory, to produce the grooves in the sides of a key blank. Mogul Cylinder: A pin tumbler cylinder with a diameter of 2.0″, whose pins, springs, key, etc. may also be proportionally increased in size; frequently used in prison locks.
Mortise: An opening made to receive a lock or other such hardware OR the act of making such an opening.
Mortise Cylinder: A pin or disc tumbler cylinder made to operate a mortise lock. Mortise cylinders are normally screwed into the lock after it has been installed on the door.
Mortise Lock: A lock designed to install into a large mortise cut-out in the edge of a door. MP Lock: (abbr.) Manipulation-proof lock
Mullion: A fixed or removable vertical member dividing a door opening; may also occur between a door & side lite or a separate glazed area.
Multi-section Key Blank: A key section that enters more than one, but not all, keyways in a multiplex key system.
Multiplex Key System: A series of different key sections that may be used to expand a master key system by repeating bittings on additional key sections. The keys of one key section will not enter the keyways of another key section. This type of system always includes another key section that will enter more than one, or all, of the keyways OR a keying system that utilizes such keyways and key sections.
Mushroom Pin: A type of pin, resembling a mushroom, used in pin tumbler cylinders; used to add pick resistance to the cylinder. (See also Spool Pin)
Negative Locking: Locking that’s achieved solely by spring pressure or gravity that prevents a key cut too deeply from operating a lock or cylinder.
Night Depository: A safe containing a heavy-duty secured drop bin & envelope drop in a wall-mounted exterior depository for customers to make bank deposits.
Night Latch: A surface-mounted lock with a spring latch type of bolt.
Non-Fail Safe: See Fail Secure
Non-original Key Blank: Any key blank other than the original one.
Nose Puller: A tool for removal of the nose of a lever tumbler lock, allowing access to the tumblers.
OBD2: (abbr.) On board diagnosis; a data link connector that is required to be within 2 feet of the steering wheel.
OEM: (abbr.) Original equipment manufacturer
On Board Programming (OBP): Allows a user to program the vehicle to accept a new key, or fob without special tools.
One Column Progression: A process where key bittings are originated by using the cut possibilities in one column of the key bitting array.
One-way Cylinder: A lock cylinder been modified so that a key will only turn in one direction, eg. clockwise or counter-clockwise. Typically, an alternate key will operate in both directions.
Open-back Strike: A strike with an unenclosed opening opposite the lip edge. The open-back strike facilitates closing of the inactive leaf when the active leaf is already closed.
Opening Index: The reference mark on a combination lock’s dial ring used in dialling the combination to effect an opening. (See also Changing Index)
Operating Key: Any key that will properly operate a lock or cylinder to lock or unlock the lock mechanism and is not a control key or reset key. (See also Change Key)
Originate a Key: To cut a key to the combination of a lock where no key exists.
Padlock: A detachable and portable lock with a hinged or sliding shackle or bolt; normally used with a hasp and staple, or eye system.
Padlock Eyes: A pair of flat or angled metal brackets, always used in pairs; designed for a padlock shackle to go through both pieces.
Page Master Key: The level three master key for all combinations listed on a page in the standard progression format.
Panic Exit Device: A door locking device designed to grant exit by pressing on a cross bar that releases the locking bolt or latch.
Para centric: a keyway with one or more wards on each side projecting beyond the vertical center line of the keyway to hinder picking OR of, or pertaining to, a key blank made to enter such a keyway.
Parallel Arm: Term describes one of several mounting configurations for a surface-mounted door closer. In a “parallel arm mount” the arm of the closer is parallel to the surface of the door when the door is closed.
Passage Set: A device that includes a pair of door knobs and a spring latch, with no provision for any means of locking either knob.
Passive Entry Proximity Systems: (abbr. PEPS) An access control for vehicles; uses a higher power RFID that allow users to have the vehicle unlocked & started by simply being close enough to the vehicle with your proximity key or fob on your person.
Pattern Key: Any original key kept to use in a duplicating machine when additional keys are required OR any key used in a key duplicating machine to create a duplicate key.
Pawl: The cam attached to the end of certain automotive lock cylinders; driven by the plug and acts upon the latch mechanism to operate it. The pawl may or may not be attached to a linkage rod.
Peanut Cylinder: A miniature mortise cylinder. A peanut cylinder is 3/4″ in diameter, whereas a mortise cylinder is 1 5/32″ in diameter. (See also Mogul Cylinder)
PED: (abbr.) Panic exit device
Pick Gun: A tool designed to pick open locks by striking the bottom surfaces of the tumblers with a metal blade; usually shaped somewhat like a gun, with a trigger that causes the metal blade (pick needle) to strike the lock tumblers. There are mechanical and electric pick guns.
Pin Stack: All of the tumblers in a pin chamber, including top, bottom, and any master pins.
Pin Stack Height: The measurement of a pin stack, often expressed in units of the lock manufacturer’s increment or as an actual dimension.
Pippin File: A type of file used extensively when making of keys by hand. The pippin file gets its name from the shape of its cross-section, that of a tear-drop or of the seed of a pippin apple.
Pivot: A hinge with a fixed pin and knuckle, forming a single joint.
Plug: The part of a cylinder containing the keyway, with tumbler chambers usually corresponding to those in the cylinder shell.
Plug Bore: The hole in the cylinder where the plug fits into.
Pocket Door: A type of door that opens by sliding into a hollow wall.
Positional Master Keying: A method of master keying certain binary type disc tumbler key-in-knob locks, and magnetic and dimple key cylinders. Of all possible tumbler positions within a cylinder, only a limited number contain active tumblers. The locations of these active tumblers are rotated among all possible positions to generate key changes. Higher level keys must have more cuts or magnets than lower level keys.
Positive Locking: A condition brought about when a key cut that’s too high forces its tumbler into the locking position. This type of locking does not rely on gravity or spring pressure.
Practical Key Changes: The total number of usable different combinations available for a specific cylinder or lock mechanism.
Pre-cut Key: An unused key, usually a factory key, stocked for use when rekeying locks.
Prep Key: (abbr. for “Preparatory Key”): A key that must be used in conjunction with a renter’s key to unlock a safe deposit lock; usually the same for every lock within the installation. The term “Guard Key” is typically used in reference to double-nose SD locks, while the term “Prep Key” identifies a key having the same function on single-nose SD locks. (See also Renter’s Key and Guard Key)
Primary Key: In automotive lock terminology, the “primary key” is the key that operates the ignition lock. (See also Secondary Key)
Privacy Set: A device that includes a pair of door knobs and a spring latch, with a provision for locking the outside knob, and unlocking with the use of a simple tool rather than a key.
Profile Cylinder: A type of pin tumbler cylinder used extensively in Europe; fits entirely through the door and mortise lock and is secured by a single screw in the mortise lock’s face. The inside can be keyed or have a knob.
Progress: To select possible key bittings from the key bitting array, usually in numerical order. Progression: The logical sequence of selecting possible key bittings, usually in numerical order from the key bitting array.
Progression List: A bitting list of change keys and master keys arranged in the sequence of progression.
Pullman Latch: A curved, pivoting type of latch; used in many panic exit device designs and some unit lock and mortise lock designs.
Push Plate: A protective plate mounted on the “push” side of a door to limit wear of the door’s finish.
Rabbeted Door: A door having an edge contoured with an offset creating two surfaces which form an overlap at the abutting edge.
Rabbeted Lock: A lock with a face or front specially formed to use in a rabbeted door.
Rail: The horizontal construction member located on the top and bottom of a door. (See also Stile)
Rake: A certain type of lock-picking tool (noun) OR to pick a lock using a “raking” action (verb).
Random Master Keying: An undesirable process of creating a master key system utilizing unrelated keys.
Rap: To open a pin tumbler cylinder by applying a rapping action to the outside with a small wood or plastic hammer while applying turning pressure.
Re-locking Device: Any device intended to prevent normal opening of a safe as a result of an attack, two types are typically used, internal and external.
Recombinate: To change the combination of a lock, cylinder or key.
Record Safe: See “Fire Safe”
Rekey: To change the existing combination of a cylinder or lock.
Removable Cylinder: A cylinder that can be removed from a locking device by a key and/or tool. Removable Dial: A dial that’s removable from the spindle.
Renter’s Key: One of two keys required to open a safe deposit box. The renter’s key is the one issued to the box renter; it is unique key within the system. (See also Prep Key and Guard Key)
Request-to-Exit: (abbr. REX) A mechanism for a person to indicate to an alarm and/or electronic access control system, of their intent to exit through a protected door, preventing a forced door alarm.
Rim Cylinder: A cylinder typically used with surface-applied locks and attached with a back plate and machine screws; with a tailpiece to actuate the lock mechanism.
RKE: (abbr.) Remote keyless entry
Reveal: The distance measured from the trim surface of the jamb to the leading face of the door on the stop side when closed.
Roller Bolt: In detention lock terminology a “roller bolt” is the auxiliary latch bolt of a latch lock, due to the fact that it is often fitted with a roller on its end OR in safe lock terminology a “roller bolt” is a type of lock bolt that pivots to release, rather than sliding.
Root Depth: See Cut Root Depth
Rotary File: A type of key machine cutting wheel with a set of very fine teeth; removes metal somewhat slowly from a key blank. Also known as a “File Cutter”.
Rotating Constant: One or more cuts in a key of any level that remain constant throughout all levels and are identical to the top master key cuts in their corresponding positions. The positions where the top master key cuts are held constant may be moved, but always in a logical sequence.
Rotating Constant Method: A method used to progress key bittings in a master key system, wherein at least one cut in each key is identical to the corresponding cut in the top master key. The identical cut(s) is/are moved to different locations in a logical sequence until each possible planned position has been used.
Row Master Key: The level one master key for all combinations listed on the same line across the page in the standard progression format.
Safe: A lockable container for protecting its contents from fire and/or theft.
Safe Deposit Box: A dual custody container for the storage of valuables; rented to end users by a bank, trust company or hotel.
Safety Lock-out: A procedure to deactivate or render inoperative any energy device to ensure safety and give visual warning of danger while device is being worked on /locked out.
Safety Lock-out Hasp: A device used in conjunction with padlocks which allows multiple padlocks to be used to safely lock-out an energy device; often used on electrical switch panels and steam or hydraulic valves.
SAVTA: (abbr.) Safe and Vault Technicians’ Association
Scalp: The armoured face plate of a mortise lock or a thin piece of metal, usually crimped or spun onto
the front of a cylinder; determines the cylinder’s finish and may also serve as the plug retainer.
Screw-in Cylinder: Sometimes used to identify a mortise cylinder.
Second Generation Duplicate: Any key reproduced from the original.
Secondary Key: In automotive lock terminology, the secondary key is the key that opens door and compartment locks that the primary key does not.
Selective Master Key: An unassociated master key that can be made to operate any specific lock(s) in the entire system, in addition to the regular master key(s) and/or change key(s) for the cylinder, without creating interchange.
Sequence of Progression: The order in which bitting positions are progressed to obtain change key combinations.
Seven Column Progression: A process wherein key bittings are originated by using the cut possibilities in seven columns of the key bitting array.
Sex Bolt: Convex or flat-headed mating fastener used for through-bolting; consists of a female (internally) threaded barrel (nut) and a male (externally) threaded screw. The nut may have a knurled barrel to allow for one-sided installation; commonly used on door closers or exit hardware.
Shackle: The part of a padlock that passes through an opening in an object or fits around an object and is ultimately locked into the case.
Shear Line: A location in a cylinder at which specific tumbler surfaces must be aligned, removing obstruction(s) which prevent the plug from turning.
Shear Lock: A special-application electromagnetic lock (EML) designed to resist a shearing force (e.g. sliding the armature plate off the face of the EML rather than pulling straight away from it). Ordinary EMLs have little resistance to shearing force.
Shear-head Bolt: A security fastener commonly used in automotive applications; designed so that its head breaks off when the bolt is torqued, rendering it non-removable.
Shell: The part of the cylinder surrounding the plug; usually contains tumbler chambers corresponding to those in the plug.
Shim: Any small piece of material used to fit between objects in order to position one or both of them OR a small, flat piece of extremely thin metal with a crown to match the radius of a lock cylinder plug. A shim is used to open a pin tumbler cylinder by inserting it into the small space between the plug and the shell and using it to separate the top and bottom pins.
Shoulder: Portion of a key blank that normally forms the stop.
Shoulder Guide: Part of a key duplicating machine that facilitates proper positioning of the sample key and the key blank for duplicating.
Sidebar: A primary or secondary locking device in a cylinder. When locked it extends along the plug beyond its circumference. It must enter gates in the tumblers in order to clear the shell and allow the plug to rotate.
Sidewinder Key: A type of key with bittings milled into its side, rather than cut into its edge.
Silhouette Code: An illustration of a combinated key found in code books for use in originating keys.
Simplex Key Section: A single independent key section that cannot be used in a multiplex key system.
Single-acting: Refers to a door or door closer designed to swing in one direction only. (See also Double Acting)
Single-bitted Key: A key with cuts on only one side. (See also Double bitted Key)
Six Column Progression: A process wherein key bittings are originated by using the cut possibilities in six columns of the key bitting array.
Skeleton Key: A bit key with most of its material removed in order to bypass a variety of ward configurations: A sort of “master key” for bit key locks.
Slide Hammer: A heavy steel weight that slides along a shaft and strikes a stop at the end of the shaft. Slide hammers provide an impact in a direction away from the work, rather than toward it. It is a component of some pullers.
Slotter: A cutter designed to cut flat steel keys, ward lock keys and bit keys.
SFIC: Small Format Interchangeable Core
SMK: (abbr.) Sub-master key
Spacing: The dimension from the stop to the first cut and/or to the centers of successive cuts. Spindle: A threaded rod connecting the dial and the drive cam.
Spline Key: A small part that fits snuggly into a hole formed by grooves in two mating parts, securing them together. Spline keys are commonly-used in combination locks, to secure the dial spindle to the drive cam.
Split Pin Master Keying: A method of master keying a pin tumbler cylinder by installing master pins into one or more pin chambers.
Spool Pin: Similar in function to the mushroom pin, the spool pin gets its name from the fact that it is somewhat spool-shaped and is used to increase pick resistance. (See also Mushroom Pin)
Stacking: In master keying terminology, the term “stacking pins” refers to the practise of placing more than one master pin in a pin chamber; generally regarded as undesirable.
Standard Key Coding System: An industry standard and uniform method of designating all keys and/or cylinders in a master key system. The designation automatically indicates the exact function and keying level of each key and/or cylinder in the system, usually without further explanation.
Standard Progression Format: A systematic method of listing and relating all change key combinations to all master key combinations in a master key system. The list is divided into segments known as blocks, horizontal groups, vertical groups, rows, and pages, for levels of control.
Staple: The loop-shaped part of a hasp designed to receive the shackle of a padlock. (See also Hasp) Stile: Vertical members of a door to which the lock and hinges are applied.
Stop: The part of a key from which all cuts are indexed and which determines how far the key enters the keyway OR the part of a door or window frame against which the door or window closes.
Strike/Strike Plate: A metal plate installed onto or in a door jamb, header or floor, with one or more openings into which a lock’s latch and/or bolt can enter to lock the door.
Sub-assembled: When purchasing locks from a wholesaler, it is sometimes possible to purchase them without tumblers, springs, etc. This is often done with locks that will usually be keyed to the customer’s key at time of sale. Locks in this condition are normally called “sub-assembled” or “uncoded”.
Sub-master Key: The master key level immediately below the master key in a system of six or more levels of keying.
Tailpiece: An actuator attached to the rear of a cylinder.
Tension Wrench: A tool used in lock picking to apply turning pressure to the cylinder plug.
Theoretical Key Changes: The total possible number of different combinations available for a specific lock cylinder or lock mechanism.
Threaded Cylinder: A mortise cylinder
Three Column Progression: A process wherein key bittings are originated by using the cut possibilities in three columns of the key bitting array.
Throat Cut: A cut on some keys, usually flat steel keys for lever locks, that enables the key to turn and serves to hold the key in proper position as its turning.
Tibbe: A high security automotive lock system using rotating disc tumblers and their own key type. Time Delay Lock: A key or combination lock that incorporates one or two clock movements to impose a delay in unlocking. The delay period is typically between 3 and 30 minutes.
Time Lock: Used on safes and vaults, it is a lock with electronic or mechanical clock movements that remain locked for the number of hours that the operator has set. It is inaccessible from outside the container and typically has at least 2 clock movements. Locking times can be up to 144 hours or more, depending on the model.
Toe (of a Shackle): The end of the shackle on a padlock; may be removed from the case.
Tolerance: The deviation allowed from a given dimension.
Top Master Key: The highest level master key in a master key system.
Top Pin: Usually a cylindrical shaped tumbler, flat on both ends and installed directly under the spring in the pin stack.
Total Position Progression: A process used to obtain key bittings in a master key system wherein bittings of change keys differ from those of the top master key in all bitting positions.
Trunnion: A post and cam assembly having a slot the full length of its construction. A part of a lever lock which holds the key in place, and sometimes drives the locking bolt.
Try-out Keys: A set of keys of varying combinations, that is intended to encompass all possible combinations for a particular key/lock mechanism. Try-out keys often utilize modified, or custom, bitting depths in order to reduce the total number of keys necessary in the set, by exploiting the key/lock mechanism’s tolerance.
Tubular Key: A key with a tubular blade. The key cuts are made into the end of the blade, around its circumference.
Tubular Key Cylinder: A cylinder with tumblers arranged in a circle; operated by a tubular key; also knowns as a “radial pin tumbler cylinder”.
Tubular Lockset: A bored lockset with latch or bolt locking mechanism contained in the component installed into the edge bore.
Tumbler: A movable obstruction of varying sizes and configurations in a lock or cylinder that makes direct contact with the key or another tumbler and prevents an incorrect key or torque device from activating the lock or other mechanism. Examples include pins, discs, wheels, levers, etc.
Tumbler Spring: Any spring that acts directly on a tumbler. Turn Wrench: See Tension Wrench
Two Column Progression: A process wherein key bittings are originated by using the cut possibilities in two columns of the key bitting array.
Two Step Progression: A progression using a two-increment difference between bittings of a given position.
UL: (abbr.) Underwriter’s Laboratories
ULC: (abbr.) Underwriter’s Laboratories of Canada
Unassociated Change Key: A change key which is not related directly to a particular master key through the use of certain constant cuts.
Unassociated Master Key: A master key that does not have change keys related to it through the use of constant cuts.
Uncoded: Of, or pertaining to, a cylinder that is, or is to be, supplied without keys, tumblers, or springs. (See also Sub-assembled)
Uncombinated: Of, or pertaining to, a cylinder that is, or is to be, supplied without keys, tumblers, or springs. (See also Sub-assembled)
Uncontrolled Cross Keying: A condition in which two or more different keys under different higher level keys operate one cylinder by design; e.g. XAA1 operated by AB, AB1.
NOTE: This condition severely limits the security of the cylinder and the maximum expansion of the system, and often leads to key interchange. (See also “Controlled Cross Keying” and “Key Interchange”)
Underwriter’s Laboratories: A chartered not-for-profit organization to establish, maintain, and operate laboratories for the examination and testing of devices, systems and materials to determine their relation to hazards to life and property, and to ascertain, define and publish standards, classifications
and specifications for materials, devices, products, equipment, constructions, methods, and systems affecting such hazards.
Underwriter’s Laboratories of Canada: A not-for-profit independent product safety testing, certification and inspection organization founded in 1920. It maintains and operates laboratories and a certification service for the examination, testing and classification of devices, constructions, materials and systems to determine their relation to life, fire and property hazards.
Unit Lock: A lock be installed in a cut-out in the door edge without any disassembly or assembly required to the lock.
Universal Keyway: A lock with “universal keyway” is designed to accept any or all or a number of different key millings; has been associated with General Motors aftermarket locks.
Vertical Bolt: A type of bolt that travels up and down instead of from side to side, when the lock is operated.
Vertical Bolt Rim Dead Lock: A type of rim dead lock that uses a vertical bolt. Also known as a “jimmy proof lock”.
Vertical Group Master Key: The level two master key for all combinations listed in all blocks in a column in a page of the standard progression format.
Vertical Rod: Pertaining to a panic exit device that features locking points at the top and bottom of the door. Vertical rods connect the top and bottom latches to the center case of the panic exit device.
Wafer Tumbler: See Disc Tumbler
Wall Safe: A safe designed to be installed in a wall.
Ward: A usually stationary obstruction inside a key/lock mechanism that prevents turning of the key, unless the key has a corresponding ward cut.
Ward Cut: A modification of a key allowing it to bypass a ward.
Warded Key: A key with ward cuts only; typically a bit key, flat steel key or corrugated key.
Warded Lock: A key/lock mechanism that functions on the principle of wards and ward cuts.
Wheel Pack: A complete set of tumbler wheels, spacing washers, tension washers, etc. for a combination lock.
Wheel Post: Component of most combination locks on which the wheel pack is mounted.
Zero Bitted: Of, or pertaining to, a cylinder that is, or is to be, pinned to keys cut to the manufacturer’s reference number “0” bitting.


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{{anchor|lockpick}} '''''[[lockpick]]''''' - A tool or implement used to manipulate the [[#pin|pins]], [[#lever|levers]] or [[#wafer|wafers]] inside a lock without the key.

Revision as of 12:16, 23 August 2018

Glossary

The LockWiki glossary of terms and abbreviations found in locksmithing, lockpicking, locksport and the lock and safe security industry in general.


lockpick - A tool or implement used to manipulate the pins, levers or wafers inside a lock without the key.




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