For a very long time, keys have been an essential thing in our lives, always performing the responsibility of maintaining the security of our house, car, and other belongings. Warding off these threats has been the advancement in the types of actually existing keys and locks that can be used to securely fasten the lock.
Someone in the past would use certain key types that have been phased out in modern times. In addition, master keys exist that are operated on many locks that would range in difficulty. When you become a ready friend or a close relative of a locksmith, and it is time to change the keys of your house or car, learning about the types of such locks on the market will definitely help you make the right choice for the security system.
Traditional Keys: The Common Type of Key
Traditional keys, also known as mechanically cut keys, are the most common type of key. These keys are typically used to open pin tumbler locks, which are found in many home locks and door locks. The key’s unique pattern of cuts corresponds to the pins inside the lock, allowing it to turn and open when inserted.
Double-Sided Keys: A Different Style
Double-sided keys feature cuts on both sides of the key blade. This design offers increased security as it’s more difficult to duplicate. These keys are commonly used for high-security locks in both residential and commercial settings.
Tubular Keys: A Unique Shape
Tubular keys, also known as barrel keys, have a distinctive cylindrical shape. They’re designed to open tubular pin tumbler locks, which are often used in bike locks and vending machines. The circular pattern of cuts on the key’s end interacts with the lock’s pins to grant access.
Dimple Keys: A Different Type of Key
Dimple keys are characterized by small dimples or depressions instead of traditional cuts. These keys are used in high-security locks and are more difficult to duplicate than standard keys. The unique pattern of dimples corresponds to pins in the lock mechanism.
Car Keys: From Simple to Smart
Car keys have evolved significantly over the years. While older models used simple mechanical keys, modern vehicles often employ electronic keys or smart keys. These advanced keys may include features like remote locking/unlocking and keyless ignition.
Paracentric Keys: A Locksmith’s Challenge
Paracentric keys feature a curved tip and complex keyway. They’re designed for high-security locks and are particularly resistant to picking. Locksmiths use different types of keys and tools to work with these sophisticated locks.
Abloy Keys: A High-Security Solution
Abloy keys are used with disc tumbler locks, which use rotating discs instead of pins. Known for their exceptional pick resistance, these keys are often used in high-security applications.
Corrugated Keys: A Wave-like Design
Corrugated keys have a wave-like pattern on the blade. This design provides increased security over traditional keys, making them harder to duplicate or pick.
Valet Keys: Limited-Use Car Keys
Valet keys are limited-use keys for cars. They typically only open doors and start the engine, restricting access to other areas like the trunk or glove compartment.
Skeleton Keys: The Key to Many Locks
Skeleton keys, also known as pass keys, are designed to open many different locks. They’re often associated with antique or simple lock systems and are no longer commonly used for security purposes.
Exploring Various Types of Keys and Locks
Padlock Keys: Securing Your Belongings
Padlock keys are specifically designed for padlocks. These keys can vary in complexity, from simple keys used in basic padlocks to more sophisticated designs for high-security padlocks.
Magnetic Keys: A Different Approach
Magnetic keys use magnets instead of physical cuts to operate a lock. They’re often used in high-security applications where traditional keys might be vulnerable to picking or duplication.
Sidebar Keys: Extra Security for Cars
Sidebar keys feature an additional set of cuts on the side, interacting with a sidebar in the lock for extra security. These keys are commonly used in automotive applications.
Smart Car Keys: The Future of Car Access
Smart car keys are electronic keys for modern vehicles. They often include features like remote locking/unlocking, keyless ignition, and even the ability to start the car remotely.
Transponder Keys: Adding a Layer of Security
Transponder keys contain a microchip that communicates with the car’s security system. When the key is used to start the car, the chip sends a signal to the vehicle’s computer, allowing it to start only if the correct signal is received.
Advanced Key Types for High-Security Locks
Cruciform Keys: A Complex Design
Cruciform keys have a cross-shaped blade with cuts on each arm. This complex design offers high security and is difficult to duplicate.
Four-Sided Keys: Maximum Security
Similar to cruciform keys, four-sided keys have four distinct sides with cuts. They’re used in high-security applications where pick resistance is crucial.
Laser Cut Keys: Precision Security
Laser-cut keys are made using precise laser-cutting technology. They often have a distinctive sideways “S” pattern and offer increased security over traditionally cut keys.
Keycard: The Flat Key
Keycards are flat, rectangular cards used in place of traditional keys. They’re common in hotels and some office buildings, offering easy access control and the ability to quickly change access permissions.
Biometric Keys: Your Body is the Key
Biometric keys use biological identifiers like fingerprints or retinal scans. These high-tech security solutions are becoming increasingly common in both residential and commercial applications.
Specialty Keys and Their Uses
Flip Keys: Compact Car Keys
Flip keys are car keys with a foldable blade. They combine a traditional key with remote functions, making them compact and convenient.
Tibbe Keys: Specialized Automotive Keys
Tibbe keys are used in some Ford and Jaguar vehicles. They feature a unique circular pattern of cuts and require specialized equipment to duplicate.
Zeiss Keys: Banking on Security
Zeiss keys are high-security keys with a complex, symmetrical design. They’re often used in banks and government buildings where security is paramount.
Fob Keys: Wireless Access
Fob keys are electronic devices that communicate wirelessly with a lock. They’re common in modern vehicles and some buildings, allowing for keyless entry.
Warded Keys: An Ancient Design
Warded keys are one of the oldest key types. They’re used with simple warded locks and have a distinctive shape with notches cut out to pass by wards in the lock.
Curtain Keys: A Specialty Design
Curtain keys feature a cylindrical shaft with a slit. They’re used in some antique or speciality locks and are less common in modern applications.
Combination Keys: The Best of Both Worlds
Combination keys integrate a traditional key with a numeric keypad. They offer dual-factor authentication, combining physical and digital security.
Deadbolt Keys: Extra Home Security
Deadbolt keys are specifically designed for deadbolt locks. They’re often more robust than standard door keys to withstand the increased force needed to operate a deadbolt.
Ceremonial Keys: Symbols of Authority
Ceremonial keys are symbolic keys not used for actual locking or unlocking. They’re often ornate and used in formal presentations or ceremonies.
Primary Keys: One Key to Rule Them All
Primary keys, also known as master keys, are designed to open multiple locks in a system. They’re commonly used in large buildings or complexes where different levels of access are required.