North Carolina Locksmith Practice Exam

What is the part of a key from which all cuts are indexed and determines how far the key enters the keyway?

1. Shank (of a key)

2. Tip (of a key)

3. Stop (of a key)

4. Shoulder (of a key)

The correct answer is: Stop (of a key)

The correct answer is the shoulder of the key. The shoulder is a critical part of the key that serves as a stopping point when the key is inserted into the lock. It is located just above the cuts of the key and provides a reference point that aligns the key with the pins or tumblers in the lock mechanism. This alignment ensures that the key is properly seated and engages effectively with the internal components of the lock. The shoulder also determines how far the key can enter the keyway. Without the shoulder, the key could be inserted too far or not far enough, potentially leading to unsuccessful operation or damage to the locking mechanism. Understanding the role of the shoulder is essential for locksmiths, as it affects the overall functionality and security of the lock. The other components mentioned, while important to the structure of the key, do not serve this specific role. The shank refers to the long part of the key that is held when inserting it. The tip is the end of the key that interacts with the lock's mechanism. The stop is often associated with the mechanism in the lock rather than being a structural part of the key that determines its fit in the lock.