North Carolina Locksmith Practice Exam

What term describes a listing of the key bitting possibilities available in one bitting position?

1. Progression Column

2. Change Key Array

3. Bitting Sequence

4. Key Position Table

The correct answer is: Progression Column

The term that describes a listing of the key bitting possibilities available in one bitting position is known as a "Progression Column." In locksmithing, a progression column is an essential tool used when creating or identifying combinations for locks. It represents all the potential cut depths for a specific position on a key, which helps locksmiths design keys that will effectively operate particular locks. Understanding this term is critical for locksmiths as it allows them to interpret the bitting of keys and to construct master key systems efficiently. This is particularly important when dealing with pin-tumbler locks where each position can have multiple depths, and therefore multiple possible key cuts. The other terms refer to different concepts within locksmithing. For instance, a change key array typically relates to a set of change keys within a master key system, while a bitting sequence often refers to the order of cuts on a key for its specific operation. A key position table might list different key combinations for various positions within a lock system but does not focus solely on a single bitting position like the progression column does. This distinction makes understanding the progression column vital for effective locksmithing practices.