Bit key
A bit key, sometimes called a bitted key, is a key with a blade, called a bit, which projects from the side of a round shank near the tip and on which are made key cuts to clear the wards on a warded lock[1] and/or to operate the levers of a lever tumbler lock. The bit key is sometimes also called a mortise lock key, rim lock key, warded lock key, or a wing key (because bits are sometimes called wings or flags).
In America, it is common for a bit key, a barrel key, or virtually any key that appears old to be erroneously called a "skeleton key". However, very few bit keys, and even fewer barrel keys, are actually skeleton keys.
Parts of a Bit Key
A bit key consists of a shaft or post which is solid (in contrast with a hollow barrel key) with a bit at one end to operate the lock and a "bow" at the other end that allows the key to be turned by hand. The sides of the bit are cut with "ward cuts" to allow the key to turn past "wards" or obstructions within the lock. These ward cuts can be highly ornate on church- or castle-type keys and their reproductions. The bottom of the bit may have "lever cuts" that allow the key to engage one or more levers at the appropriate height to allow the key to operate the lock. Most bit keys have a flat bit, but wedge bits and more complex bit shapes may have a groove on the side, parallel to the post, called a "bullet cut," cut into the key to allow it to clear a keyhole ward.
References
- ↑ Keith Mayers (1979), A Dictionary of Locksmithing (PDF), p. 4, ISBN 0-9604860-0-3, archived from the original (PDF) on 2022-01-20, retrieved 2022-01-20
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