Parts of a Key: Bow, Blade, Cuts and More

Knowing the parts of a key helps you identify blanks, describe a problem to a locksmith, and understand how keys and locks work together.

Bow

The bow is the part you hold. It often carries the brand stamp, key number or a "Do Not Duplicate" marking.

Shoulder

The shoulder is a stop between the bow and blade that limits how far the key goes into the lock, so the cuts line up with the pins. Some keys are tip-stop instead of shoulder-stop.

Blade

The blade is the long part that enters the lock. Its milled grooves form the keyway profile, which must match the cylinder (for example Kwikset KW1 or Schlage SC1).

Cuts (Bitting)

The cuts — also called bitting — are the notches along the blade. Each cut's depth lifts a pin in the lock to the correct height. The combination of cut depths is the key's code. A key gauge helps read cut depths when rekeying.

Tip

The tip is the end of the blade, often angled to help guide the key into the keyway.

Why It Matters

When duplicating, the keyway must match the blank; when rekeying, each cut determines which bottom pin goes in each chamber. Brand-specific kits such as the Kwikset re-keying kit include pin charts matched to cut depths.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the part of a key you hold called?

The bow.

What are the notches on a key called?

Cuts, also known as bitting.

What is a keyway?

The profile of grooves along the blade that must match the lock cylinder.