Locksmiths: jargon-buster

Auto locksmiths
If you get locked out of your car, auto locksmiths can cut a new car key and re-activate your vehicle's central locking system.

Auxiliary lock
An auxiliary lock is the name given to any additional lock that locksmiths fit to a door that has an existing lock already fitted.

Bit (of key) or key bit
The part of a key which is specially shaped or notched to operate the mechanism of its own particular lock or latch.

Bitting
The shaping or notching of a key blank to transform it into a key to operate its own lock or latch.

Cylinder lock or latch
Any lock or latch, the mechanism of which is contained in a cylinder.

Deadbolt
The square ended bolt of a lock which is moved in both the locking and unlocking directions by the key.

Escutcheon
The cover for a keyhole of a mortice lock and cabinet lock—a generic term to include all locks of any type for use on pieces of furniture, such as cupboards, drawers, chests, boxes and similar.

Key blank
A partly made key, which has been shaped to enter the keyhole of a certain type of lock or latch, but of which the blade has not been finally shaped (i.e. notched or bitted) to operate the mechanisms of the lock.

Lock picking
Lock picking is the act of unlocking a lock by analysing and manipulating the components of the lock device, without the original key. Although lock picking is associated with criminals, it is an essential skill for locksmiths.

Mortice lock (or hatch)
A lock or latch which is morticed or let into the thickness of the door from the meeting edge and held in position by screws through the forend.

Nightlatch
A rim or mortice latch with a bevelled springbolt or roller bolt which shoots when the door is closed, but can be withdrawn by key from outside, and by knob or lever handle from inside. They are usually provided with a stop knob, slide or snib to hold the bolt retracted and to deadlock the bolt when shot in the closed postion, even against the action of the key.

Plug
The plug is the part of the lock that you put the key into, and which turns to operate the lock.

Re-keying
When locksmiths rekey (change) a lock, they replace the tumblers in the lock cylinder. The lock will then require a different key to operate. This is a good idea if you have just moved in to a property or lost a set of keys.

Rim lock or latch
A lock or latch that is fitted by screwing on to the inside face of the door.

Locksmith tips:

• Make sure the locksmiths you call are either members of the Master Locksmiths Association or the Institute of Certified Locksmiths.
• Ask the locksmiths for a quote over the phone and check whether you will have to pay a call-out charge.