Guide to Skeleton Keys

Skeleton keys are prevalent in folklore as a nearly magical tool allowing for instantaneous access through locks of all types – and while being a real life tool, skeleton keys aren’t nearly magical as legend would have one believe. In this blog entry, the Albuquerque master key system installation here at 505 Locksmith Albuquerque will detail the real life basic facts regarding skeleton keys – which can be considered a prototype for master keys – as well as master keys.

What is a skeleton key?

Skeleton keys are keys that can be used to open locks without its original key. They only work on antique and older lock designs, and are useless on modern locks.

Are skeleton keys universally applicable?

Skeleton keys are not universal, and only work on outdated locks like warded locks and some lever locks. Some skeleton keys are designed for only one type of warded lock.

How do skeleton keys work?

Warded locks have small shapes cut into them, and only keys with those matching shapes can move past the wards. Skeleton keys are shaved down in a way that allows them to be turned without being caught in the wards.

What do skeleton keys look like?

Skeleton keys look like normal keys but only have one or two notches on their biting. Modern warded padlocks can have skeleton keys made by teeth shaving. A locksmith skeleton key looks like long strips of metal with a handle on one side and notches on the other.

What are skeleton keys used for?

Skeleton keys are used to open up warded locks when you don’t have the key. Most locks aren’t warded locks, and usually, skeleton keys can only open antique locks or low-security padlocks.

How do master key systems work?

In a nutshell, master key systems allow two – or more – keys to operate a single lock. They are often used with pin tumbler locks that include a key pin and a driver pin that both lift up when the proper key is inserted, and rest on opposite ends of a shear line. A key must have the right groove set to lift the key pins to the proper height. Changing a normal pin tumbler to work with a master key system requires the addition of a master wafer that is placed between the driver pin and the key pin.

Master Key System Advantages

Master key systems allow for increased security, as different employees can have different levels of security access and authorization. It also simplifies access protocols, allowing managers or cleaning staff to access multiple areas with just one key.

What are the keys used in a master key system?

There’s a few keys utilized in master key systems. First, the Great Grand Master Key – used to open all key systems underneath it. Following, the Grand Master Key will give you access to multiple master keys, and the change keys beneath them. Then, the Master Key will unlock all the change key locks below it within the system. Then, lastly, the change key, known as the sub-master key, is used to only open a single lock – which, of course, can also be opened by all keys above it.