Classic Brass Keys

Product Info

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Material: Brass

Finish: Polished, not lacquered

Type: Skeleton Key with cut bit

Size

Overall: 2-11/16"

Barrel Length: 1-1/2"

Barrel Interior: 1/8" Diameter

Classic Brass Keys are excellent quality with vintage style. These keys will turn some but not all antique locks. Key has a notched-end, known as the key-bit. This portion of key is critical. If the key bit is cut correctly it will turn lock-mechanism.

If key bit is not correctly notched it will not open and close lock. Key-bit profile varies according to individual lock. The key barrel is hollow, to slip onto lock pin. Lock pin must be slightly less than 1/8" for barrel to slip lock-pin.

Fitting Furniture Keys

Replacing keys for an existing lock is difficult

Key bits, also known as blades, often require a specific cut to fit a lock. Determining this cut is complex. If key bit is not cut correctly, it will not engage lock mechanism.

Unfortunately knowing the manufacturer and model number of the lock does not help in locating a key to fit an antique lock.

Cutting the bit/blade, to turn the lock mechanism, often requires the skills of a locksmith.

Before choosing a key blank:

Determine lock-pin diameter This measurement is critical as key-barrel must slide over lock pin.

The key-bit must be sized correctly to move the lock-bolt .

Profile of key-bit varies between locks. 

Some locks are easily turned with a simple un-notched blade

Other locks require a key bit with one notch to lock or unlock

Many locks require a key cut with 2 notches: one notch locks the lock the other notch unlocks the lock

Some locks, made with spring-loaded levers, also require 2 notches however they also must be different sizes. This type of key is difficult to reproduce

Selecting Keyhole Covers - Escutcheons
For accurate fit:

Measure keyhole height in keyhole cover

Measure key-end height, height of key-bit

Compare above determined measurements, to interior keyhole measurements, of the desired keyhole cover