Master Pins in Locks – What They Are Used For, Why You Don’t Want Them

Do you know what master pins (in locks) are? Do you know why they are important or what they are utilized for? Have you been looking into master locks and pins and wondering if the pins are something you actually might not want? Before explaining what master pins in locks are, we will briefly explain what a master key system is and how it works. With a master key system, numerous individuals can access a property and its different areas. As a mobile locksmith, we are skillful when it comes to installing master locks and working with master keys (-).  

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When discussing master keying, one is making a reference to the procedure for keying that makes a single lock function with a couple or multiple key cut combinations. You might see a cylindrical shaped tumbler that is flat on either end, placed between a bottom and top pin and forming a shear line if looking into master pins. When a lock is made to work with different keys, it can grant multiple people access, and it can mean that having a master key can open (as well as lock) multiple locks. When a master key can be used to open several different locks, you might find that some of the pin pairs use a third pin to separate them. The third pin might be referred to as a spacer or a master wafer.  

If you are wondering how many pins a master lock has, you might be surprised. Numerous locks have the same components – springs and 12 pins. The bottom six pins might be different sizes so that they are a fit for a specific key and its grooves. On the other hand, the six pins on the top might be the same size. The springs are used to keep the pins in the proper place. Different components are working together in this case. 

Remember, the components of a master key include a shear line, pins and notches. The third pin – the master wafer – is what makes the key and lock system unique, and function differently. With master keys and locks, one can have the convenience of not having to carry around as many keys. This can lessen the amount of weight on a key ring, too. Having a master key can mean faster access to a property as one avoids fumbling around searching for the correct key. Master keys can be easier to keep track of. If a tenant or employee leaves, it can be easy to maintain control of a property because you were using less keys to begin with. 

Why One Might Not Want Master Pins in Locks 

You might have heard of a skeleton key – this can be used to describe a master key. Now that you have a better understanding of master keys and locks – a master lock can only be opened using a master key – we are going to discuss why you might not want master pins in locks. 

Some find master pins in locks and master key systems overall to be a con because of their potential vulnerabilities. They can be easy to pick and even to bypass. Raking, picking and bumping are potential problems to consider if looking into master pins in locks. Of course, some locks are made better than others, and that is why it is important to use quality manufacturers. The more pins that are used the more difficult a lock can be to bypass, so again it all depends on the lock and the manufacturer. Finding a mobile locksmith that sources parts from quality, reliable brands is important.  

Since master keys and locks might be believed to be less secure than other kinds of locks, you might want to consider how yours will be used. Maybe instead of using it for a front door, you might use this type of system for locking a shed. If you are concerned about the possibility of your lock being bypassed, then consider that the master key used for a pin tumbler lock could be used to probe the internal pin stacks of the chambers.  

Have you been looking into master locks and pins and wondering if the pins are something you actually might not want? We have gone over what master pins in locks are, and we have briefly explained what a master key system is and how it works. With a master key system, numerous individuals can access a property and its different areas. One can avoid needing to carry around multiple keys, which can reduce weight on a key ring and offer convenience. But there are certainly reasons why one might not want master pins in locks, as has been discussed here. 

When discussing master keying, as previously mentioned, one is discussing the procedure for keying that makes a single lock function with multiple key cut combinations or with just a couple of key cut combinations – regardless, more than one combination is used. You might see a cylindrical shaped tumbler that is flat on either end, placed between a bottom and top pin and forming a shear line, if looking into master pins. When a lock is made to work with different keys, it can mean having a master key to open (and lock) multiple locks. The third pin separates the pin pairs in these locks, and might be referred to as a master wafer. As discussed, there are certainly vulnerabilities that can be associated with these types of locks, but if you know what they are, you can better protect your property. You could place the lock in a place that is easy for you to access but difficult for others to access. You could also lessen visibility to the lock by blocking it somehow, so you know where it is but others do not.  

We have gone over master pins in locks and why you might not want them. We hope this has helped you! 

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