GLOSSARY OF LOCKSMITH TERMS

The Americans with Disabilities Act.  This landmark legislation provides for stiff civil penalties for any business, workplace, or public institution that fails to provide appropriate access to disabled persons.  It means much more than just ramps!  In many cases, door knobs are non-compliant because they are difficult for people with limited hand strength or dexterity to operate.  Professional locksmiths can advise you on ADA compliance issues that relate to the  door hardware at your business or workplace.
 

American National Standards Institute.  This is an agency that establishes standards for everything from toilet seats to telephone cables.  They are the reason that such products are largely interchangeable nowadays.  Door hardware standards are also established by ANSI.  They also establish standards for lock designs that categorize architectural locksets as Grade 1, Grade 2, or Grade 3.
 

This term refers to any device or system that selectively allows entry by certain persons to an area while excluding others.  Usually, this term is not used to refer to ordinary key-operated locks but rather to push-button, card access, or biometric systems.  This can be anything from a simple mechanical push-button lock to retinal scanners, palm scanners or badge readers wired to magnetic or electrical locking devices.  Many professional locksmiths offer access control services and can advise you on the best system for your particular application.
 

This refers to the measurement from the edge of the door to the center of the main bore of an installed lock.  To obtain this measurement, hook a measuring tape on the edge of the door and measure right to center of the keyhole.  The most common backset for modern residential-grade locks is 2-3/8".  The standard backset for commercial-grade locksets is 2-3/4."  If you are buying a replacement lock, this is the most important dimension to match.
 

This is the typical type of key used on antique and antique-style furniture.  The reason it is called a barrel key is because of the post-hole drilled into the bottom of the key.  It is distinguished from a bit key, which is more commonly used on antique or antique-style door locks.  Together, bit and barrel keys are sometimes called “skeleton keys.”  It is not true that all such keys are interchangeable.  Some locks that use barrel keys are quite complex; the key must be cut precisely in order to operate it.
 

This is the typical type of key used on antique or antique-style door locks, especially interior doors on older homes.  It is distinguished from barrel key by the protruding post on the end of the key.  Together, bit and barrel keys are sometimes called “skeleton keys.” It is not true that all such keys are interchangeable.  Some locks that use bit keys are quite complex; the key must be cut precisely in order to operate it.
 

see Cylindrical Lock, below
 

(with a long O sound) This is the technical term for the handle part of all keys.
 

Burglar-proof

There is no such thing!  See Burglar-resistive.
 

This refers to a feature offered by some, but not all, safes and lockboxes.  Standards for Burglar-resistive ratings are established by the insurance industry and by safe manufactures themselves.  Just because a box has a lock on it doesn’t mean that it will protect your valuables.  A professional locksmith can educate you and help you select a product that will protect your property adequately.
 

This is a common type of small lock that is used on cabinets, tool boxes, etc.  It is distinguished from other designs by an obvious swing-arm or cam on the back which turns with the key to lock the door or drawer.  The lock can be long or short.  The cam might be long or short, bent or straight, and may even be in the shape of a hook.
 

In the context of a master key system this refers to the very lowest level of key.  A change key would typically work a single apartment or a single office door.  In the context of a push-button lock or a safe dial, it can refer to a key or tool that is used during the procedure to change the combination.  See also master key and submaster key.
 

This is a term some people use to refer to push-button locks.  See Access control.
 

This refers to a safe that is constructed to be both burglar-resistive and fire-resistive.  If your safe or box doesn’t carry a label specifying a fire rating and a burglary rating, it isn’t a composite safe!  See also fire-resistive and burglar-resistive.
 

This refers to a special key used to remove and install interchangeable cores. Some people also call this a core key.
 

This refers to the lock component where the key is inserted.  A typical door knob has one keyhole, therefore one cylinder.  Deadbolt locks are available in single-cylinder models and double-cylinder models.  A double-cylinder model is operated from both sides with key, while a single-cylinder model uses a key from the outside and has a thumb-turn knob on the inside.  Labor charges for rekeying locks is generally per cylinder.  Therefore, if a door has a locking door knob and a double-cylinder deadbolt, there are 3 cylinders for the locksmith to service.  If you are scheduling rekeying service, it is very helpful to have an accurate cylinder count.  This allows us to provide an accurate cost estimate and to schedule ample time for the technician to complete the project.
 

This refers to the most common type of modern lockset.  The installation involves (among other things) boring a large hole all the way through the door.  Most key-in-knob, key-in-lever, and deadbolt locks fall into this category.
 

This term can refer to an entire lockset or to one lock component.  A deadbolt is a locking device that, once fully extended, cannot be retracted except by operating the locking device (usually a key cylinder or thumb-turn knob).  It cannot be “jimmied,” “shimmed” or pushed back.
 

This is a lock component that can be part of any locking device that latches as the door closes.  In addition to the primary triangular piece that catches the door frame, it has an extra component that prevents “shimming” the latch open with a credit card or pocket knife once it is closed.  If door and frame alignment are incorrect or the lock is not installed properly, the lock does not have this added security feature.  This is a common problem when locks are installed by anyone other than a professional locksmith.  Security breaches or lock failures are a common result of improperly installed deadlatches.  See also strike.
 

This refers to the hole pattern pre-cut into many new doors.  ANSI has assigned numbers to many standard configurations.  If you need hardware for a pre-drilled door, just tell the locksmith the ANSI number and we will know the door thickness, bore size, backset, and other relevant measurements to match you with the right hardware.
 

This refers to a key made by merely tracing another key.  This is a common service offered by locksmiths.  Also, some home-improvement, hardware, and other shops sometimes provide this service.  However, you are certain to have far better results having your keys duplicated by a professional locksmith. An improperly made key can cause all sorts of nightmarish problems!
 

This is an item commonly used by businesses such as retail stores and restaurants.  It allows emergency exit in case of fire, but prevents customers (and employees) from exiting the building except through designated doors during other times.  Look around.  Wherever you see “Emergency exit only.  Alarm will sound” you have encountered an exit alarm. This is used in situations where locking a door would violate fire code, but leaving it unsecured would breach security.  Exit alarm products are available either with or without locking devices included.  See also panic device.
 

There is no such thing!  See Fire-Resistive below.
 

This is a feature that many (but not all) safes have.  Levels of fire-resistive are measured and rated, either by the manufacturer of the product or by Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL).  A typical plastic lockbox sold by discount stores has a ½ hour, 350 degree label.  This provides very little protection for papers.  Some lockboxes and safes have no fire resistance at all!  Good quality fire-resistive safes are available with 1 hour, 350 degree labels and even more.  This is the minimum recommended level of protection for documents.  The important thing here is to be an informed consumer.  Don’t buy a $15 tin box and assume that your documents are safe!  Read the exact label on the product you are considering.  If it doesn’t have a rating, it isn’t fire-resistive!  Protecting plastic media such as computer disks and photographs is a whole different matter! They are ruined long before the temperature reaches 350 degrees.  A professional locksmith can educate you and help you select the right product to protect your cherished documents!
 

This is a generic term that refers to making a key for a lock by any means other than duplicating.  This procedure becomes necessary after all keys to a lock have been lost.  Some methods include making keys by code, disassembling the lock to fashion a key, progressioning and impressioning.
 

This refers to the specific features available in different door locks.  A passage lockset is one with free access in both directions (non-locking).  A privacy lock is commonly found on bathrooms, bedrooms and dressing rooms.  An entry lockset is the familiar type with a button on the inside and a keyhole on the outside.  Storeroom locks are always free from the inside, but are always locked from the outside. (Building codes typically specify storeroom locks on rooms used to store toxic chemicals.)  There are dozens of varieties that professional locksmiths can recommend and supply.  Whatever your security needs, there is probably a lock function designed to address it!
 

This is a durability and security rating that is issued by ANSI.  Specific security features and the durability of the product (the expected number of “cycles” or operations the product endures before wearing out) determine its grade.  Grade 1 locks are very heavy-duty and are the only ones suitable for high-traffic public areas.  Think of Grade 1 locks as “industrial strength.”  Grade 2 locks are “commercial strength.”  They are suitable for areas with moderate traffic, such as the employee-only areas of an office.  Grade 3 locks are suitable only for residential applications.  They will only last in a low-traffic area where people are not likely to abuse the product or treat it roughly.  Professional locksmiths can be sure that you get the correct grade of hardware for your particular application.  Higher grade locks cost more, of course, but no professional locksmith (nor any hardware manufacturer) will warranty a lock installed in an inappropriate setting.
 

This term typically refers to any lock that uses patented or unconventional design features to thwart the most common types of attacks on locks--picking and drilling.  There are high-security cabinet locks, door locks, and padlocks.  Even some cars are equipped with special high-security lock systems which are especially resistant to vandalism and conventional means of fitting a key. Some, but not all high-security locks also come with restricted keys.  Professional locksmiths are the best source for high-security locking devices.
 

This refers to a method of fitting a key without disassembling it.  It involves repeatedly inserting a key blank into the lock and gradually filing the key to fit.  This is not a do-it-yourself project!  Locksmiths spend years cultivating a knack for impressioning locks.  Some locks are not suitable for this procedure no matter what the skill level of the locksmith.
 

This term refers to locks that are designed to facilitate frequent rekeying without disassembling the lock.  A special key called a control key is used to remove and replace the cylinder or core. Common uses for this type of lock are college campuses and retail stores where frequent rekeying is necessary.
 

This refers to the uncut variety of keys that a locksmith (or anyone who copies keys) keeps on hand.  Home-improvement stores may only stock a dozen or so types.  Full-service locksmiths maintain inventories of thousands of types!  Generally, if a key won’t even go into the lock, it is cut on the wrong blank.
 

This refers to a series of letters or numbers found on some locks.  In the case of office furniture and some padlocks, the number is stamped or printed right on the face of the lock.  Some automobile manufacturers also stamp or print this number somewhere on the vehicle.  Others vehicle manufacturers keep the key code on file and can look it up for the owner by the VIN number.  (NOTE:  The VIN is not a key code!)  With a valid key code, a well-equipped locksmith can originate a key using books or software and special key-cutting equipment.  This costs more than a simple duplicate key, but can be much less expensive than a service call.
 

This refers to more than one lock that operate with the same key.  If you have two padlocks that use the same key, they are keyed alike.  If the same key operates your doorknob and the deadbolt above, they are keyed alike.
 

This is the opposite of keyed alike.  This refers to different locks requiring separate keys.  Generally, your house should be keyed different than the house next door!
 

This is a feature that is available on several kinds of lock, including padlocks and some cabinet locks.  If a lock is key retaining, the user cannot remove his or her key until they have locked the lock!  It can be very effective in discouraging users from leaving things unlocked!
 

This refers to the channels or grooves that distinguish one type of key blank from another.  Your Chrysler key won’t go into your Toyota locks because it has a different keyway.  Your Kwikset deadbolt can’t be keyed to match your Schlage doorknob because they have different keyways.  Locksmiths must maintain huge inventories of key blanks because of the huge variety in keyways.
 

This refers to a system in which a set of locks are keyed different, and yet can all be operated using a single key as well.  An example would be a set of apartments.  Each tenant has a key to his/her own unit which does not work the others.  The landlord, however, carries a single master key that operates all units.  Office buildings, retail stores, schools, hospitals and churches all utilize master keys systems.  Only a professional locksmith can design, implement and maintain a masterkey system properly!  See also change key and submaster key.
 

This refers to the key that operates all locks on the vehicle, including the ignition, doors, trunk and glove box and/or consoles.  See also valet key.
 

This refers to a lock that is installed by carving a rectangular cut-out from the edge of the door.  Mortise locks are still made today, but were far more common before the 1950's when cylindrical locks became common.  Old “skeleton key” door locks are usually mortise locks, as are residential and commercial locks in which the latch and deadbolt are operated by a single keyhole.  (If the keyhole is above or below the knob or lever handle--not built into the handle--you probably have a mortise lock).  See also cylindrical lock and rim lock.
 

This refers to any key that is not made by tracing another key.  It can refer to the keys that came from the factory with the lock or to a key made by a locksmith by any means other than duplicating.  See also fit a key.  If you have lost your last key to something, you don’t need a copy (though you probably wish you had one!).  You need to have an original key made!
 

This refers to an entire class of products made for public areas.  These are often required by fire inspectors in locations where groups of people are meant to gather.  These are only installed on out-swinging doors, and must open freely when anyone presses against the door.  They can include exit alarms.  Some people might call them “crash bars.”  There are many issued to consider when selecting and installing panic devices.  These include whether the door is used frequently or virtually never; whether the door is insulated as a fire and heat barrier (a fire door); and whether access from outside is needed.  The height of the installation and type of device required is also regulated.  A professional locksmith should be familiar with local requirements and can select and install the right product to protect your property and ensure the safety of all guests.
 

This refers to both a method for opening locks without the key and for the tools used to do this.  Possession of burglary tools is illegal in many states.  Also, locksmiths spend years cultivating a knack for picking locks.  Simply having the tools does not guarantee success.  Also, some locks are more resistant to picking than others.  See also high-security.
 

This refers to a method of fitting a key.  This is a common method used when one lock from a vehicle provides only part of the information needed to make a complete working key. It usually involves the use of a chart or computer software that helps the locksmith generate a list of the possible keys for the lock(s).   The locksmith can then make a series of keys to try.  It sounds complicated, and it is.  But professional locksmiths know that it can save hours of disassembly work!
 

This refers to one of the most common services provided by locksmiths.  It generally entails disassembling a lock to replace the “tumblers” inside.  Once completed, the lock requires a different key to operate than before.  This is done to house locks when people move, divorce, are robbed, etc.  Businesses rekey frequently when any key-holding employee quits or is fired.  Body shops and auto dealers have new replacement locks rekeyed to match their customer’s  key before installing them in the vehicle.  If a lock must be replaced on a home or business, often it can be keyed to match the other locks on the building.
 

This refers to various products available from professional locksmiths.  If you buy such locks, you can be sure that no unauthorized duplicate keys will be made.  Many businesses and institutions utilize such systems.  If an employee’s key from a restricted set is returned upon their resignation, no rekeying is necessary (this can save thousands of dollars!).  Other popular applications are neighborhood swimming pools, tennis courts, clubhouses and fitness centers.  This allows the management to issue keys to those who pay their dues, certain that members cannot in turn make keys to share with other, non-paying acquaintances!  NOTE: Stamping “do not duplicate” on an ordinary key is not very effective!  Some locksmiths will require ID or a note on letterhead to duplicate such a key.  But anyone can produce letterhead, and there is no way to verify authorization to duplicate.  There is simply no way to control duplication of a key that is available at every locksmith shop, home improvement store, and shoe repair shop in the world.  If you need to put an end to unauthorized duplication of keys at your home or workplace, you need to contact a professional locksmith for restricted key products!
 

This refers to locks that are installed on the surface of a door rather than inside the door (see cylindrical locks and mortise locks).  They are fairly easy to spot, because the lock consists of a box bolted onto the inside of the door.
 

This becomes necessary when a safe is locked shut and cannot be opened by the ordinary means: the combination or key is lost, or the safe lock has been vandalized or has simply failed.  This can mean minutes and no damage if it is a cheap lock-box purchased from a discount store.  It can mean hours or days of technicians using noisy drills and fancy equipment if it is a well-constructed safe or a vault door.  This is a specialized service that not all locksmiths offer.
 

This is a feature that some fire inspectors require on some doors.  (Fire codes are still largely a local matter, though standardization is becoming the trend.)  This means that a user must make only one motion in order to open a door to exit.  For example, a door which is designated for single motion egress cannot have both a latching doorknob and a separate deadbolt, since that requires the user to perform two distinct actions to open the door.  There are products designed for properly securing doors that require single-motion egress.  A professional locksmith can make sure you comply with local codes while still protecting your property!
 

This is a generic term that refers collectively to the keys that operate antique or antique-style furniture (see barrel keys) and antique or antique-style door locks (see bit keys).  It is simply not true that there is one skeleton key that works all locks.
 

This term refers to a metal plate, either curved or flat, that is installed on the door frame opposite a door lock.  The latch or bolt of the lockset actually protrudes into the strike when the door is closed and/or locked.  The proper installation and adjustment of the strike is critical for the secure and reliable operation of the lock.  In short, the strike is the other half of the lock!  Strike adjustment is one of the most common repairs that locksmiths make.
 

This refers to a key that is part of a master key system.  It operates more locks than a change key, but fewer than the master key.  This is the sort of key that might be given to a departmental manager.  It opens all the keyed different offices under his or her supervision, but does not work the locks in other departments.
 

This refers to an old technology that has been put to a new use.  Aircraft have been outfitted with transponders for decades; this is how radar equipment locates and identifies all the planes in the sky.  But starting in the mid-90's, many automobile manufacturers began installing transponder systems as anti-theft devices on cars.  When the key is operated in the ignition lock, the on-board computer transmits a radio signal to the key.  If  the key is properly programmed, it echoes back the correct signal; the computer then allows the engine to start. This thwarts thieves who simply smash the lock to steal the vehicle.  (It is less effective against professional chop-shop thieves who tow the car away.)  Unlike the VATS system used by GM since the 80's, the transponder is hidden in the plastic handle of the key.  Some automakers have chosen to patent their transponder technology, forcing their customers to return to the dealer even for duplicate keys.  Others can be duplicated by anyone with a standard duplicating machine and the appropriate key blank; the programming of the transponder is done at the wheel of the vehicle.  Other keys require an expensive “cloning” machine in order to duplicate the keys.  Busse’s can copy both of the last two types of keys.  But be prepared for sticker shock; prices for transponder keys are significantly higher than for the ordinary car keys of days gone by!

If your transponder keys have been lost, however, you may be in a for an expensive lesson.  In most cases your vehicle is immobilized until the dealer connects their computer diagnostic equipment to reprogram your transponder module.  Roadside locksmith services simply cannot help in most of these situations.  Even if a copy sounds expensive, it is a real bargain compared to being stranded while your car is towed to the dealer!
 

This refers to locks and their accompanying circular keys that are often used on bicycle locks, vending machines, and electrical devices.  “Ace” and “Kryptonite” are two common brand names associated with this technology.  Such locks can also be found on Harley-Davidson motorcycles, Laundromat washers, showcases and countless other devices.  Generally, these keys can be copied by most locksmiths; in many cases, keys can also be fitted when the need arises.
 

Underwriter’s Laboratory.  This insurance industry agency tests and rates products for safety and functionality.  Every electrical appliance in your home carries a UL approval tag, showing that meets minimum safety standards.  UL also issues ratings to safes for burglary-resistivity and fire-resistivity.  Even some locks (those installed on insulated fire doors) must be UL rated for that purpose!
 

Most late-model cars use one key for the entire vehicle.  Many also come with a special key which only operates the doors and ignition; the key won’t work the trunk or the storage compartment (glove box or console).  This is a valet key.  It allows you to have someone park your car without letting them snoop in the storage areas.  In many cases, the handle is gray instead of black.  In other cases, the handle or bow is a different shape.  For specific information on the valet key for your vehicle, refer to your owner’s manual.  A well-equipped locksmith can make both valet keys and master keys for most vehicles.