Oklahoma Locksmith Practice Exam

What type of key is typically duplicated using an end mill cutter?

1. Cylindrical

2. Paracentric

3. Bit key

4. Flat key

The correct answer is: Paracentric

The type of key that is typically duplicated using an end mill cutter is the paracentric key. This kind of key features a design that incorporates distinct grooves or notches along the side that correspond to the pins in a lock. The profile of the paracentric key allows for a high level of security, making it a common choice for commercial and high-security locks. When duplicating a paracentric key with an end mill cutter, precision is essential, as the machine can carve the unique shapes and details of the key’s profile accurately. End mill cutters are designed for milling out specific key shapes and can produce fine, detailed cuts that are necessary for the intricate design of a paracentric key. Other types of keys, while they may involve different duplication processes, do not utilize the end mill cutter in the same way for their unique requirements. For instance, cylindrical keys are generally simpler and may be duplicated using other methods such as standard key duplicating machines. Bit keys and flat keys have their own profiles that may require different types of cutting tools or techniques, focusing on machines optimized for those specific key shapes rather than the milling approach suited for paracentric keys.