Locksmith Terms

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Date:

Instructions: Unlock your knowledge of the fascinating vocabulary used by locksmiths and security professionals.

1.
What is a 'tumbler' in a lock?
A
A drinking glass-shaped lock
B
A spring-loaded component inside a lock that must be moved to a specific position by the correct key
C
A type of padlock
D
A lock that has fallen off
2.
What does 'keying alike' mean?
A
Making keys that look similar
B
Setting multiple locks to be opened by the same key
C
Creating duplicate keys
D
Keys made from the same material
3.
What is a 'deadbolt'?
A
A decorative door bolt
B
A bolt struck by lightning
C
A broken bolt
D
A lock bolt that is moved into position by turning a key or thumb turn, with no spring mechanism
4.
What does 'rekeying' a lock involve?
A
Making a copy of the existing key
B
Changing the internal pins or tumblers so a different key operates the lock
C
Removing the lock entirely
D
Buying a new lock
5.
What is a 'master key' system?
A
The most expensive key available
B
A key made by a master locksmith
C
A key that can never be duplicated
D
A system where individual keys open specific locks, but one master key opens all locks in the group
6.
What is a 'cylinder' in a lock?
A
The part of the lock into which the key is inserted and turned
B
A type of safe
C
The shape of a padlock
D
A round door handle
7.
What does 'pick' mean in locksmithing?
A
Breaking a lock with force
B
Using a specialized tool to manipulate the internal components of a lock to open it without a key
C
Selecting the right key for a lock
D
Choosing a lock at the store
8.
What is a 'strike plate'?
A
A decorative door plate
B
A plate on the back of a lock
C
A plate that has been hit
D
The metal plate mounted on the door frame into which the bolt extends when the door is locked
9.
What is 'key bitting'?
A
A key that bites your finger
B
The key's brand marking
C
The specific cut pattern of ridges and valleys on a key that correspond to the lock's tumblers
D
Biting a key to test its metal
10.
What is a 'bump key'?
A
A large oversized key
B
A key that vibrates when used
C
A specially cut key that can be used with a tapping technique to open pin tumbler locks
D
A key with bumps on the handle
11.
What does 'mortise lock' mean?
A
A lock that fits into a pocket (mortise) cut into the edge of a door
B
A very old-fashioned lock
C
A lock for a mortuary
D
A lock made of mortar
12.
What is a 'shackle' on a padlock?
A
The keyhole
B
The body of the lock
C
The U-shaped metal loop that passes through the hasp or chain
D
The locking mechanism inside
13.
What does 'key blank' refer to?
A
A key that doesn't work
B
A key with no markings
C
A fake key used for display
D
An uncut key that will be machined to fit a specific lock
14.
What is 'access control' in the security industry?
A
Controlling who has access to keys
B
A type of padlock
C
A system that regulates who can enter a building or area, using cards, codes, or biometrics
D
Locking all doors at night
15.
What does 'tension wrench' do in lock picking?
A
Measures the tension of a lock spring
B
Applies slight rotational pressure to the lock cylinder while pins are being manipulated
C
Tightens loose lock screws
D
Removes a broken key from a lock

Answer Key

Question 1

B. A spring-loaded component inside a lock that must be moved to a specific position by the correct key

Question 2

B. Setting multiple locks to be opened by the same key

Question 3

D. A lock bolt that is moved into position by turning a key or thumb turn, with no spring mechanism

Question 4

B. Changing the internal pins or tumblers so a different key operates the lock

Question 5

D. A system where individual keys open specific locks, but one master key opens all locks in the group

Question 6

A. The part of the lock into which the key is inserted and turned

Question 7

B. Using a specialized tool to manipulate the internal components of a lock to open it without a key

Question 8

D. The metal plate mounted on the door frame into which the bolt extends when the door is locked

Question 9

C. The specific cut pattern of ridges and valleys on a key that correspond to the lock's tumblers

Question 10

C. A specially cut key that can be used with a tapping technique to open pin tumbler locks

Question 11

A. A lock that fits into a pocket (mortise) cut into the edge of a door

Question 12

C. The U-shaped metal loop that passes through the hasp or chain

Question 13

D. An uncut key that will be machined to fit a specific lock

Question 14

C. A system that regulates who can enter a building or area, using cards, codes, or biometrics

Question 15

B. Applies slight rotational pressure to the lock cylinder while pins are being manipulated

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