A series of pointed teeth and notches on the blade, called bittings, then allow pins to move up and down until they are in line with the shear line of the inner and outer cylinder, allowing the cylinder or cam to rotate freely and the lock to open.

Keyed alike is the term used to describe multiple locks having the same cut so that one key can fit all the locks. Having your locks keyed alike is the most convenient way to handle and manage all your keys.

The lock originated in the Near East; the oldest known example was found in the ruins of the palace of Khorsabad near Nineveh. Possibly 4,000 years old, it is of the type known as a pin tumbler or, from its widespread use in Egypt, an Egyptian lock.

The blade is the specific part of the key which slides inside the lock. The bow is the portion which protrudes from the blade; the part you hold in your hand when you use the key. *Some of the keyways offered. A Kwikset keys, for example, will always fit in a Kwikset lock, even if it won't turn.