What Are the Key Blanks?
Key blanks have not been cut to a certain bitting. The cross-sectional profile of the blank is designed to fit the keyway in a similar lock cylinder. The big, flat end of the key's bow is frequently associated with a specific manufacturer. Manufacturers can imprint a final logo, name, or slogan on key blanks.
But before we go any further, let's clarify what a key is.
A key is a piece of equipment used to open a lock or unlock. A standard key is a tiny bit of metal with two components: a bit or blade that fits into the lock's keyway and differentiates between different keys; and a key ring and a left projecting bow so that the user may apply torque.
Keys have additional effects on our lives; they provide security by allowing us to shut our doors and ensure that no one has the key. We have keys to our houses, goods, bags, and automobiles. We have garage keys, hotel suite keys, and yacht cabin keys. When we're not at home, we always have our keys.
When we lose our keys, Key blanks are significant since they allow us to unlock our doors and start our automobiles again.
Most Common Types of Key Blanks
Due to the apparent wide variety of locks and locking systems now in use, the ability to correctly recognize blank keys is required to duplicate a key effectively. To pick the best for duplicating, you must first understand each function.
Flat
As the name implies, flat keys are flat, and, except for locks on safe-deposit boxes, the sorts of locks that use flat keys are incredibly unsafe. Flat key locks are frequently used on baggage, cash boxes, postal boxes, and lockers.
Barrel
A barrel key is identical to a bit key in appearance. The top of a barrel key is drilled with a hole, a fundamental distinction between the two. Handcuffs, watches, baggage, and furniture are famous examples of locks that use barrel keys.
Bit
The key bit is what makes contact with a lock's locking mechanism. Today's new keys include a coding scheme that defines a specific geometry, often known as bitting. The bitting instructs a locksmith on how to replace a missing key, duplicate it, or create a new key. Additionally, a skeleton key is known as a bit. Locks and bit keys are more cosmetic than functional nowadays.
Cylinder
Today, the most common form of key blank is the cylinder. The Yale pin tumbler cylinder was designed over 150 years ago to give much more security than other locks present. It required a far more minor key than those used by conventional locks. Cylindrical keys are now utilized in almost every manufactured lock, including high-quality padlocks, office supply locks, automotive locks, and door locks.
Recognizing Key Blanks
Understanding the main elements of the key is the first step in identifying a blank key. A lock manufacturer's head is generally one-of-a-kind. The shoulder stop and grooves influence how a key approaches a lock and fits in the locking mechanism. Tracing and cutting are both possible with the blades and tips. The simplest way to detect it is to use the key's identification number if one exists. This number will reveal the lock's manufacturer and other key blanks that are suitable for duplicating. In the lack of identification numbers, you can compare the form and size of the blank to cross-reference the key design. If the manufacturer's name is engraved on the key, use it to find keys with a similar bow.
The Facts about Duplication of Keys
With a few exceptions, keys imprinted with information about the illegality of duplication or directions not to duplicate are perfectly lawful to copy. Locksmiths in California are prohibited from duplicating keys labeled 'Unlawful to Duplicate' or 'Do Not Duplicate' unless they provide the name and phone number of the key maker on the replicated copy. Some key blank producers offer a limited number of blanks that are not widely available to control key copying.
FAQ:
Is It Against the Law to Buy a Blank Key?
With a few exceptions, keys marked with "Do not duplicate" or "It is prohibited to duplicate this key" are entirely legal to copy, contrary to widespread assumption.
Is it possible to unlock any lock with a blank key?
Locks exist in various forms and sizes, but they always operate in the same way. Any lock that takes a bump key may be unlocked. It's handy to carry in your pocket if you misplace your keys because it can unlock both your door lock and deadbolt, even though they require separate keys.
What Materials are Blank Keys constructed of?
Compared to keys manufactured entirely of brass, nickel silver is one of the most rigid materials for Blank keys. Keys made of nickel silver are more durable and less likely to break. Reduced key breakage means fewer maintenance and repair calls and more occasional lockouts due to key breakage.