Skeleton keys: Knowing a bit more about them

The reputation of skeleton keys would lead you to believe that nothing could stop you if you had one. You wouldn’t have to be concerned about being restricted by doors or locks. You could easily use your skeleton key to get through any secret route that was attempting to keep you out.

The reality is somewhere in the midway. Skeleton keys really exist, but they aren’t the legendary artefacts capable of unlocking any lock. They only function in specified situations and on specific lock types.

What are skeleton keys

A skeleton key is a key that may be used to enter certain locks without having the actual key. This enables you to gain access to areas where you would otherwise be unwelcome. However, they only function on older or antique lock designs. They are largely ineffective against modern locks.

Are they universal

Skeleton keys aren’t universal at all. They only operate with obsolete lock designs like the warded lock and a few lever locks. Furthermore, each skeleton key is designed for a certain type of warded or lever lock. There isn’t a skeleton key that works on every warded lock.

How do they work

Only keys with the precise patterns can get past warded locks, which have little forms, or “wards,” cut into them. Skeleton keys have been pared down to their most basic components. As a result, they can be turned without being entangled in the wards.

How do they look like

Skeleton keys resemble regular keys except for the last notch or two notches on the teeth or bitting. One can make a modern warded padlock by simply shaving off the teeth. The skeleton keys of a locksmith resemble long metal strips with a handle on one end and a succession of notches on the other.

What are they used for

When you don’t have the key, skeleton keys are utilised to open warded locks. The majority of locks are not warded, and skeleton keys can only be used to open low-security padlocks or antique locks.

Do they work

Only warded locks can be opened with skeleton keys. Most modern locks are pin tumbler locks, however with the correct skeleton key, most locks dating back to the late 1700s may be unlocked. However, there is no single skeleton key that will unlock all warded locks.

Locks they can’t open

The pin tumbler lock is the most renowned lock that skeleton keys cannot open. This is the most prevalent type of lock on the market today, and it’s almost certainly what you have on your front doors. These locks rely on a set of pins that must be raised to the appropriate height in order for the lock to turn. The pins are of various heights, and to raise them properly, a key must be cut correctly.

Skeletons have no effect on locks with no keyholes, such as combination locks and electronic locks. This is why many hotels are abandoning the skeleton key approach in favour of electronic key cards to unlock doors. Patriot locksmiths are professional, reliable locksmiths in Venice. We provide all kinds of lock and key services like lock repair, Install and Rekey in Venice. Contact us today for any locksmith service.