A master key offers the convenience of carrying around one key instead of many. Master keys are ideal for people such as landlords, custodians, office workers, and anyone else who requires more than one key to do their job. These keys make it easy to get into an apartment or any other space instead of fumbling for five or more minutes. Understanding how a master key works means learning about the components of cylinder locks, the most common type of lock such keys open.

Here’s how cylinder locks and master keys work:

• Pin & Tumbler Design: The cylinder lock features a pin and tumbler design, which includes multiple small pins of assorted lengths. These pins are divided into pairs and dwell within a shaft found in the central cylinder plug section of the lock. The shaft also runs through the housing around the plug and features springs that maintain the position of the pin pairs. When a key is inserted in a cylinder lock, the notches in the key push the pin pairs to different levels to provide space for it to turn, creating a shear line. If the wrong key is used, some, but not all, of the pins are pushed up.
• Third Pin: In a master key lock system design, a third pin separates some of the pin pairs. This pin is called the master wafer. The lowest pin is the same length in the master key lock design; however, the wafer length varies so you can unlock any door within the system. The master key creates a gap at the shear line that allows the key to turn and open the lock.
• Complex Lock Systems: Complex lock systems are recommended if you wish to enjoy the convenience a master key offers. This prevents security problems if an unscrupulous character gets his or her paws on the master key.

Discuss a master key system for your building with the talented team at Ability Lock & Key. The mobile locksmith company has proudly served the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina since 1999 and is fully licensed and insured by the state. Contact Ability Lock & Key today to learn more about master keys, car keys, and other available services by calling (336) 784-0226, or visiting the website. Follow the mobile locksmith service on Twitter for great tips and more.