Key blank
An uncut key — the precursor metal stock with the keyway shape but no depth cuts. Cut to a specific bitting at the bench.
A key blank is an uncut key — the metal stock with the keyway profile already pressed into it but no depth cuts on the blade yet. Locksmiths cut blanks at the bench to a specific bitting using a code machine (Silca Futura, HPC CodeMax, Framon #2) that reads cut depths and increments and grinds the blank accordingly.
Blanks are profile-specific. A Lockwood 570 blank has the 570 keyway shape and won’t fit any other profile. A Schlage C blank has the C keyway shape and fits Schlage C cylinders only. The blank determines compatibility before any cutting happens.
Blank availability and restriction
For non-restricted profiles (Schlage C, Kwikset KW1, Yale 8), blanks are commodity — sold to any locksmith and many hardware stores, often as low as a few dollars per blank.
For restricted profiles, blanks are controlled at the manufacturer level. Distribution typically requires:
- A registered locksmith or licensed dealer relationship with the manufacturer
- A signatory agreement linking each blank order to a specific authorised customer
- Per-order documentation of the system the blanks are intended for
- Sometimes serial-number tracking on each blank shipped
Restricted blanks cost considerably more — A$5–15 per blank versus 50¢ for a Schlage C — and the controlled distribution is the primary security feature.
Blank specifications
Each blank carries:
- A keyway code (e.g.,
570,C,KW1) - A blank length (varies by lockset — e.g., long-blank versions for cabinets)
- A blade thickness specification
- For some restricted profiles: side-bit channels, dimple-side faces, or angled-cut faces
Related
→ Keyway — the shape pressed into the blank → Restricted keyway — when blanks are controlled-distribution → Bitting — the depth string cut into the blank