How do you identify a keyway?

Look at the large end of the key (also called the bow). If the bow has straight sides and a triangle-shaped top (like a house), you probably have a KW1 keyway. If the key is diamond-shaped (narrower at the top and bottom and wide in the middle), you probably have a SC1 keyway.

What are the different keyways?

How many different keyways are there?

The common residential hardware keyway that competes directly with the Kwikset KW1 is known as 35-100C or referred as SC1 in EZ code. There are 7 different keyways C,CE,E,EF,F,FG and G.

What do the letters on keys mean?

A blind code is usually a combination of numbers and letters stamped on a key that relate to a set of codes from an individual locksmith or sometimes manufacturer. This can also be a way to identify the lock or door that the key opens.

Where is the key code on a key?

Sometimes the key code is in the vehicle manual or on a label with the lock or key. On the key. It would be an engraved or hewn in code. A code that consists of raised lettering is not a key code, it is the key blank number.

Locksmith Tips | FAST WAY TO IDENTIFY ANY KEYWAY!

What does KW1 mean on a key?

KW1 is the key blank number, indicating Kwikset keyway.

Are all key blanks the same?

Despite common belief, keys stamped with "Do not duplicate" or "It is unlawful to duplicate this key" are, with few exceptions, perfectly legal to duplicate. Some key blank manufacturers strictly restrict the sale of their own blanks. Some blanks are made only in small volumes and are not widely available.

What is Yale keyway?

Yale® KeyMark® protected keyway line of cylinders feature an angled keyway designed to accept any keyblank constructed with the same angle, allowing all key formats to be tied to the same master key system. Cylinders include mortise, rim, key-in-lever, key-in-knob, auxiliary, and interchangeable core.

How many best keyways are there?

About 25 different keyways are commonly used; the lock shown in Figure 1 is for the "L" keyway. Pins for SFIC locks are slightly smaller than those used in conventional cylinders, and tolerances are comparatively tight.

What is the difference between keys and splines?

The main difference between splines and keys is that splines are integral with the shaft but keys are inserted between shaft and hub. As compared with one or two keys used for load transmission, there are usually four or more splines on a shaft.

Why is it called a Woodruff key?

Named after the Woodruff Manufacturing Co, in Hartford, Connecticut, who first manufactured it in 1892.

What is a Kwikset keyway?

The SC1 Keyway provides an avenue through which consumers can experience the convenience of patented SmartKey® technology, which allows locks to be rekeyed without taking the lock off the door or hiring a locksmith, and without worrying about lost or unreturned keys.

What keyway does Kwikset use?

The Kwikset SmartKey uses the standard Kwikset key blank 1-1063 and "KS" keyway.

What keyway does Schlage use?

S145 is the default keyway for new Schlage master key systems. Additional keyways are used to expand systems which need more than one keyway. Everest 29 S family products are available through Schlage authorized distributors and professional locksmiths.

What is a mortice key?

What are Mortice Keys? Mortice keys are normally used on internal doors to improve security. They fit mortice locks which require a pocket to be cut into the door.

What are Medeco keys used for?

Medeco® locks are used to protect facilities worldwide such as high security government installations, industrial and institutional organizations,...

What is the most common key blank?

Top 15 Most Popular Key Blanks

Kwikset Titan locks are the most popular use for this key, as well as aftermarket, six pin commercial cylinder. Schlage SC1– This Schlage key blank has been in use for many years and is nearly as popular on aftermarket cylinders as the KW1 key blank.

How do you tell if a key can be copied?

Most modern car keys have to be created and cannot truly be duplicated by simply cutting a new key. House Keys - Keys for locks on the front door of a home can easily be duplicated by a locksmith. Padlock Keys - Often, padlock keys are Yale Keys and even those that are not Yale Keys can be duplicated.

How can you tell if a key is KW1?

Turn the key so that it points up and down (90 degrees from how you would insert it into the lock). Look at the large end of the key (also called the bow). If the bow has straight sides and a triangle-shaped top (like a house), you probably have a KW1 keyway.

How do you count pins on a key?

Insert a shallow pick into key way, all the way to the rear of lock. Using the tip of the pick gently lift up and slowly drag pick forward. Count each click you hear until pick comes out. Each click is a pin dropping!

What is the meaning of key number?

Key Numbers® A system devised by West Group involving the classification of legal subjects that are organized within their publications according to specific topics and subtopics.

Can I use a Schlage key in a Kwikset lock?

This is because Schlage and Kwikset locks are not compatible with the same type of key. Their keyways are made differently, therefore you will either want to have all Schlage locks or all Kwikset locks. When you're at home, you don't want to use different keys for each lock you own.

What is the difference between Kwikset and Schlage keys?

Schlage deadbolts have a thick, solid housing that protects the cylinder all around, leaving no hollow areas, in contrast, the housing of the Kwikset deadbolt is much lighter and somewhat hollow, making it much easier to drill through.

How do you identify a Schlage lock?