Allen Tx Locksmith Glossary
Blank – A key that has not yet been cut to fit a lock.
Core- A removable cylinder and plug, used in a interchangeable core system.
Core Key – (AKA as
Control Key) -A key which is used to remove a core.
Control Key - See Core Key Above.
Cylinder – The part of the lock in which the the pins are set and which contains the plug.
Cuts - The notches cut in the key to make it fit a lock.
Follower (AKA
Plug Follower) – This is a cylindrical object of the same outer diameter as the plug (there are various diameters, often about 1/2″) which is used to push out or follow the plug when the plug is to be removed. This retains the top pins and Springs in the lock body.
Key way – The slot into which the key is inserted. This refers to (a) the size and shape of the (cross-section of the) key, and (b) the opening in the lock which is shaped to admit the key and to keep out most keys of different sizes and shapes. Whether the key-way can be patented by the lock manufacturer as a way to prevent others from manufacturing compatible key blanks and therefore to restrict access is open to dispute. Recent court cases make it doubtful that the simple design is patentable, but a key-way design which is involved in the patented method of operation of a lock may have patent protection.
Master key - A key which opens a group of locks designed to match it.
Pin tumblers - The pins in the lock which are moved to the shear line by the key.
pin chamber - the tubular hole in which pins and a spring stay.
Plug - The part of the lock which the key is inserted and is rotated by the key.
Sidebar - A lock part located at the ‘side’ of the plug and fitting into longitudinal grooves in both the plug and the lock body. This keeps the plug from turning until the sidebar is retracted into the plug. Retraction is blocked until the correct key (or picking) moves the pins or other tumblers to positions which cease to block the retraction or produce some other action allowing the retraction. A sidebar can add additional positioning beyond the usual “shear line” and so can make picking more difficult. A number of locks use a sidebar to increase security.
VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) - GM’s Vehicle Anti-Theft System which uses a resistor in the key shank in addition to the cuts on the key. wafer tumbler Used in locks which are less expensive than pin tumbler locks. They behave somewhat similarly. warded lock A lock using wards to keep an incorrect key from entering the key hole and turning.
