Locksmith Key Terms

Locksmith Key Terms” encapsulates a comprehensive lexicon essential for navigating the multifaceted realm of locksmithing. Within this domain, a myriad of specialized terminologies exists, each serving as a cornerstone in the foundation of locksmith expertise.

The situation where someone is unable to gain access to a property or vehicle due to a lost or misplaced key, malfunctioning lock, or other issues.

Lock out

The process of changing the internal pins or tumblers of a lock so that a different key can operate it, rendering old keys ineffective.

Rekeying

A specially designed key that can open multiple locks within a system, while each lock also has its unique key.

master key

A type of lock that cannot be moved to the open position except by rotating the key, making it more secure than spring bolt locks.

Deadbolt

Key Duplication

The process of creating a copy of an existing key using a key cutting machine.

A car key with an embedded electronic chip that sends a unique signal to the vehicle’s immobilizer system, allowing it to start.

A small electronic device that is used to control remote-access functions such as locking and unlocking doors, starting a vehicle, or activating an alarm system.

Key Fob

A system that allows access to a vehicle or property without the use of a traditional key, often using a keypad, card reader, or biometric scanner.

Keyless Entry

The part of a lock that contains the keyway and is turned by the key to operate the lock mechanism.

Cylinder

A spring-operated bolt that is engaged or released by the movement of a door handle or knob.

Latch

A metal plate installed on the door jamb to reinforce the area where a lock’s bolt or latch extends into the door frame.

Strike Plate

A decorative plate surrounding the keyhole or lock cylinder, often used for aesthetic purposes.

Escutcheon

Tumblers

Small metal pins or disks inside a lock cylinder that must be aligned at the correct height to allow the lock to turn.

Tumblers

A tool used by locksmiths to quickly rotate the plug of a lock in the direction that unlocks it.

A tool used to remove broken or stuck keys from a lock cylinder

Key Extractor
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