Complete Guide-Unlock 7 Parts of Key:Names, functions & diagram

A key is a device used to operate a lock. A typical key is a small piece of metal consisting of two parts: the bit or blade. The blade slides into the lock’s keyway. It distinguishes between different keys and the bow, which is left protruding so the user can apply that torque. Other parts of a key, like bitting, tip, and cuts, are engraved on the blade. The key is a solution to the question, like a lock. Its size and shape differ depending on the locks.

Table of Contents

Parts of a Key Diagram

Key Parts Names

Blade
Bow
Shoulder
Tip

Cuts
Bitting
Code

Parts of a Key & their Functions

Blade

The blade is part of a key that we insert into the plug of the locks. It comes with notches, bitting, warding, contours, and tips, which are the information to open the lock.

These parameters change per the keys, and the opening or closing of the lock depends on these parameters only. We can find these cuts on both sides of the key. It may vary depending on the type and manufacturer.

Bow

The bow is a big portion of the key we hold with our fingers while using it. It can be round or rectangular and varies as per the manufacturer. It contains information about the manufacturer’s name, code, and type.

Shoulder

The shoulder is the portion where the head transits into the blade. It is the limit of the blade to go inside the lock. Further to this limit, the blade does not allow it to go inside the lock.

Without this part of the blade, we would not know how far to push the key inside the lock groove. It ensures the proper positioning of the blade into the groove of the lock to open and close it.

Tip

It is the opposite part of the bow, which we first insert into the lock. Tip guide the blade to go inside the lock. Cuts and notches start from the tip and end near the shoulder.

Cuts

These are the slots on the blade of various depths per the locking code. Its shape and size vary depending on the type of lock. Every lock comes with different cuts on the blade.

Bitting

These are the cavities cut into the blade. When we insert the key into the lock, bitting interacts with the lock and helps unlock or lock it.

Code

Code is the information about the manufacturer, logo, type of keyway, and serial no. This information is engraved on the bow.

Complete Guide on 7 Parts of a Key: Names, Functions & Diagram