More on Master Key Sets

Master key sets are ideal for those who need quick and easy access to a number of different locks. Typically they are required by people such as landlords and office managers.

How do master keys work?

It may seem like magic, but master keys are actually a simple feat of engineering. There is usually nothing special about the key itself, rather the type of lock that it fits into, which has been specially designed to open with 2 keys, the master and what is known as the 'change key', a key that can open only one specific lock.

Master keys are commonly based on what is known as a pin and tumbler design. This comprises a series of small pins which vary in length and are in pairs, resting in a shaft which runs through a central cylinder plug. These pins are kept in position by springs at the top of the shaft. When there is no key in the lock, the lower pin is completely inside the plug, the upper pin is halfway between the plug and the housing. When the upper pins are in this position, the lock does not turn as the pins are bound to the housing.

When the key is inserted in the lock, notches push the pins up to different levels, the master key pushes these pins up to exactly the right point for the two pins to come together and line up exactly where the cylinder and the housing come together. This is known as the sheer line.

Why do you need master key sets?

If you have a number of different locks that need to be accessed by different personnel, for example office furniture, master key sets are the only practical solution. The alternative would be an unwieldy bunch of keys and spending a great deal of time and effort in finding the right key for a lock every time you wanted to access it.

Master key security

There are obviously security implications of having master key sets created, every organisation should ensure that they have measures in place to safeguard against theft or loss of master key sets. Master keys are cut using what are known as 'biting codes'. If a replacement for a master key is required, a locksmith can usually provide a cut of this key with this code. Due to the nature of master key sets, reputable locksmiths and key cutters will usually ask for some form of identification before cutting a set of master keys for you. Some locksmiths will not supply master key sets to the general public and will only do so for professional organisations.

Why fastkeys?

We stock master key sets ranging from 12 to 54 keys for office furniture, lockers and other types of lock. All of our keys are cut by state-of-the-art machinery to the manufacturers exact specifications. We supply everyone from office furniture manufacturers to banks and schools, so you can be sure that you are in good hands. You can order your master key sets securely online, or if you need further help and advice, contact our friendly team on: 01268 562 562.