Key

Key

A variety of different keys.

A key is a physical object that is used to open a lock. Keys are inserted into a lock to cause internal components to align, allowing the lock to open. In electronic locks, keys may transmit information electronically rather than manipulate physical components.

Because of their use, keys have become symbolic of knowledge, power, responsibility, and trust. Keys have been used in countless pieces of art and literature throughout history, especially in religion. The papal insignia and the symbol of St. Peter are two such examples.

History

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Parts of a Key

Master Lock key, front.

Master Lock key, back.

Bitting

The part of the key that makes contact with internal components. Cuts on the bitting allow internal components to be moved to different positions.

Blade

The shaft of the key which holds the wards, bitting, and cuts.

Bow

The handle which is used to turn the key. Commonly contains the lock manufacturer's logo, the keyway type, and key codes. Bows are generally patented, allowing keys to be quickly associated with certain manufacturers.

Code(s)

Characters stamped on the bow of the key that define what the cut depths for the key are or what model the keyway is.

Cuts

The cuts made on the bitting of the key. Cuts are used to properly align internal components of the lock, allowing the key to actuate the locking mechanism and unlock the lock.

Keyway

The profile of the key created by the blade and the wards. This is the inverse of the keyway of the lock.

Shoulder

The part of the key that connects the bow to the blade. The shoulder is commonly responsible for stopping the key from being inserted further, allowing the cuts to be properly aligned in the lock.

Tip

The end of the key opposite of the bow. Some locks use the tip of the key to align cuts instead of the shoulder.

Warding

Distortions to the blade of the key to prevent it from being used in a lock with a different keyway. Warded locks use this as their primary means of security.

Types of Keys

Single Bitted

The traditional key with one set of cuts on the bitting.

Multi Bitted

A key with several sets of cuts, thus giving them multiple bitting surfaces. Common in high security locks that have auxilliary locking mechanisms, such as a sidebar.

Convenience

A key with duplicate cuts but only one actual bitting surface, allowing the key to be functional when inserted in any orientation.

Cruciform

A key that has four bittings, giving it a star shaped tip. May not actually use all four, like a convenience key.

Blank Key

A key that has had no bitting cuts applied to it. "Blanks" are a common locksmithing item used for duplicating keys, impressioning, and creating bump keys.

Manufacturing of Keys

Non-electronic keys are made with aluminum, brass, iron, nickel-silver, steel, or zamak. The material used depends on the type of lock and the required durability and longevity of the key.

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Compromise of Keys

The compromise of a key or keying system may constitute a serious vulnerability in a locking system. Keys that are examined, borrowed, or stolen can be impressioned or decoded. Analysis of keys within a master system may also contribute to compromise of the overall system, depending on the specifics of the system and the key obtained.

See also

• Differs
• Master Key
• Lock
• Decoding
• Impressioning