North Carolina Locksmith Practice Exam

Which of the following describes a bump key?

1. A key with uniform steeples for impact force

2. A key that has been modified to fit multiple locks

3. A standard key with no modifications

4. A key used exclusively in electronic locks

The correct answer is: A key with uniform steeples for impact force

A bump key is best described as a key that has uniform steeples for impact force. This design allows the key to be used in a technique known as bumping, where the key is struck with a tool to force the pins inside a lock to jump into the correct position momentarily. The uniformity of the steeples is crucial for this method as it enables the key to interact with the lock mechanism effectively, allowing it to unlock without the need for the correct original key. In contrast, a key that has been modified to fit multiple locks focuses on providing versatility rather than the specific impact needed for bumping. A standard key with no modifications does not provide any special function or capability, as it is intended for use in its corresponding lock only. A key used exclusively in electronic locks does not relate to the concept of bumping at all, as electronic locks operate with different mechanisms that do not require physical key bumping techniques.