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In locksmithing, what does the term "bitting" refer to?

  1. The pattern of cuts on a key

  2. The diameter of pin chambers

  3. The length of a key

  4. The locking mechanisms inside a door

The correct answer is: The pattern of cuts on a key

The term "bitting" in locksmithing refers specifically to the pattern of cuts on a key. Each cut corresponds to a specific height, which aligns with the pins inside a lock cylinder. The bitting of a key is crucial in determining its functionality, as the correct pattern must be present for the key to engage the lock properly. The design of the bitting ensures that the key can lift the pins to their correct heights, allowing the lock to turn and operate as intended. Understanding bitting is essential for locksmiths, as they often need to create or duplicate keys by carefully replicating the specified pattern. The cuts must be precise and correctly positioned to ensure the key fits perfectly in the lock. Other aspects, such as the diameter of pin chambers, the length of a key, or the locking mechanisms themselves, play important roles in locksmithing but do not define what "bitting" is.