Askeleton key (also known as apasskey[1]) is a type ofmaster key in which the serrated edge has been removed in such a way that it can open numerouslocks,[2] most commonly thewarded lock. The term derives from the fact that the key has been reduced to its essential parts.[2]
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A skeleton key is a key that has been filed or cut to create one that can be used to unlock a variety ofwarded locks each with a different configuration of wards. This can usually be done by removing most of the center of the key, allowing it to pass by the wards without interference, operating the lock. To counteract the illicit creation of such keys, locksmiths can put wards not just in the center but on the outside as well, making the creation of a skeleton key more difficult.
Lever lock skeleton keys are used in a lock with usually three orfive levers and a set of wards that come into contact with thebit of the key only on the sides—the top is for pushing the levers to their correct heights while the warded section of the key just has to pass uninterrupted to allow the key to rotate fully. Amaster key system of lever locks has the same lever heights in all locks. Each door will have different wards and can only be opened by the correctly warded key or the master key. Askeleton key has the warded section of the key removed so that it opens all the doors of a system.
Some applications, such as a building with multiple entrance doors, have numerous locks that are keyed alike; one key will open every door. A keyed-alike system is different from a master key system as none of the locks have a key that can open only that lock.
Skeleton keys have often been associated with attempts to defeat locks for illicit purposes, to release handcuffs for example, and standard keys have been filed down for that purpose. Legitimate skeleton or master keys are used in many modern contexts where lock operation is required and the original key has been lost or is not available. In hotels withoutelectronic locks, skeleton keys are used by housekeeping services to enter the rooms.
| Fundamental concepts | |
|---|---|
| Lock hardware | |
| Keys | |
| Mechanical locks | |
| Electronic locks | |
| Other lock types | |
| Lock picking | |
| Door hardware | |
| Emergency access/exit | |
| Security alarms |
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| Miscellaneous | |
