Bitting
Encyclopedia
A bitting is the part of the key that actually engages the tumblers to activate the lock
. Bittings are often represented as a code which instructs how a key
is to be cut by a locksmith
. The bitting is usually a series of integers (e.g. 372164) that is usually translated from a key code
chart or from a bitting code list and the use of specially designed key machines. One American manufacturer, Eagle Lock Company, used letters exclusively for bitting codes.
Each digit in the bitting corresponds to a different cut or notch on the key and represents the depth at which the key must be cut. Each number in a bitting represents not only the depth of which the key blank is to be cut, but also the location of the cut on the key blank. Depending on the maker, the bitting sequence can be from bow-to-tip (the bow being the larger, handle portion of the key), or can be from tip-to-bow as is in the case of Best Locking Systems and Assa Abloy
. A smaller number is typically a shallower cut on the key, but not always. Assa bitting codes are reversed, where the higher the digit, the shallower the cut.
Locksmiths can cut to the code given when supplying a lost key or making a new restricted key copy.
-pointed pins in high-security locking systems manufactured by Medeco
and Emhart. These angled cuts are designed to lift each tumbler to a predetermined height to the shear line and to rotate them to a specific angle to engage a sidebar mechanism (Medeco) (this is also used in Schlage Primus) or to line up an interlocked pin to such a position to where it would allow the plug to rotate (Emhart).
Pin tumbler lock
The pin tumbler lock is a lock mechanism that uses pins of varying lengths to prevent the lock from opening without the correct key...
. Bittings are often represented as a code which instructs how a key
Key (lock)
A key is an instrument that is used to operate a lock. A typical key consists of two parts: the blade, which slides into the keyway of the lock and distinguishes between different keys, and the bow, which is left protruding so that torque can be applied by the user. The blade is usually intended to...
is to be cut by a locksmith
Locksmithing
Locksmithing began as the science and art of making and defeating locks. A lock is a mechanism that secures buildings, rooms, cabinets, objects, or other storage facilities. A key is often used to open a lock...
. The bitting is usually a series of integers (e.g. 372164) that is usually translated from a key code
Key code
A key code is a series of alphanumeric characters used by locksmiths to create a key. There are two kinds of key codes: blind codes and bitting codes.-Blind codes:...
chart or from a bitting code list and the use of specially designed key machines. One American manufacturer, Eagle Lock Company, used letters exclusively for bitting codes.
Each digit in the bitting corresponds to a different cut or notch on the key and represents the depth at which the key must be cut. Each number in a bitting represents not only the depth of which the key blank is to be cut, but also the location of the cut on the key blank. Depending on the maker, the bitting sequence can be from bow-to-tip (the bow being the larger, handle portion of the key), or can be from tip-to-bow as is in the case of Best Locking Systems and Assa Abloy
Assa Abloy
The Assa Abloy Group is a Swedish lock manufacturer, the world's largest by sales. Assa Abloy was formed in 1994 when ASSA AB was detached from Swedish security firm Securitas AB. Shortly thereafter the Finnish high-security lock manufacturer Abloy Oy was acquired. The company was introduced to...
. A smaller number is typically a shallower cut on the key, but not always. Assa bitting codes are reversed, where the higher the digit, the shallower the cut.
Locksmiths can cut to the code given when supplying a lost key or making a new restricted key copy.
Angularly bitted
This is a type of key where the individual cuts are designed to engage chiselChisel
A chisel is a tool with a characteristically shaped cutting edge of blade on its end, for carving or cutting a hard material such as wood, stone, or metal. The handle and blade of some types of chisel are made of metal or wood with a sharp edge in it.In use, the chisel is forced into the material...
-pointed pins in high-security locking systems manufactured by Medeco
Medeco
Medeco is a lock manufacturer. Both the factory and administrative offices are located in Roanoke County, Virginia near Salem. Medeco is a subsidiary of the Swedish Assa Abloy Group.- History :...
and Emhart. These angled cuts are designed to lift each tumbler to a predetermined height to the shear line and to rotate them to a specific angle to engage a sidebar mechanism (Medeco) (this is also used in Schlage Primus) or to line up an interlocked pin to such a position to where it would allow the plug to rotate (Emhart).