The Basic Parts of a Key
Identification of the right key blank for a customer begins with knowing the different parts of a key.
A) Head or Bow
The key head or bow is often a design that's unique to a particular key and/or lock brand. Over time, you'll become familiar with the various head designs, which will help you select the right key blank for duplication. All heads also have a key chain hole for attachment to a key chain or key fob.
B) Shoulder Stop
The key shoulder stop is one of the most important parts of a key. Not only does it control how much of the key blade will enter a lock, but most importantly, in many cases it is used to align a key and a key blank in a key machine for the tracing and cutting process. Making sure that the shoulder stop on a key blank matches the shoulder stop on a customer's key will prevent miscuts.
C) Millings or Grooves
Key millings or grooves are unique and allow a key to fit into a particular key cylinder. The pattern of the millings and their length are another part of a customer's key that will lead to the selection of the right key blank for duplication.
The key blade is the part of the key from the shoulder stop to the tip. The length of the blade on a customer's key is another factor in selecting the right key blank for duplication.
The key tip is the bottom of the key. Some keys do not have a shoulder stop. As a result, the key tip is used to align a key and a key blank in a key machine for the tracing and cutting process.
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