A key blank is a key

Key (lock)

A key is an instrument that is used to operate a lock. A typical key consists of two parts: the blade, which slides into the keyway of the lock and distinguishes between different keys, and the bow, which is left protruding so that torque can be applied by the user. The blade is usually intended to...

 that has not been cut to a specific bitting

Bitting

A bitting is the part of the key that actually engages the tumblers to activate the lock. Bittings are often represented as a code which instructs how a key is to be cut by a locksmith. The bitting is usually a series of integers that is usually translated from a key code chart or from a...

. The blank has a specific cross-sectional profile to match the keyway

Keyway

A keyway is the shaped channel in a lock cylinder into which the key slides to gain access to the lock tumblers. Lock keyway shapes vary widely with lock manufacturer, and many manufacturers have a number of unique profiles requiring a specifically milled key blank to engage the lock's...

 in a corresponding lock cylinder. Key blanks can be stamped with a manufacturer name, end-user logo

Logo

A logo is a graphic mark or emblem commonly used by commercial enterprises, organizations and even individuals to aid and promote instant public recognition...

 or with a phrase, the most commonly seen being 'Do not duplicate'. Blanks are typically stocked by locksmiths

Locksmithing

Locksmithing began as the science and art of making and defeating locks. A lock is a mechanism that secures buildings, rooms, cabinets, objects, or other storage facilities. A key is often used to open a lock...

 for duplicating keys. The profile of the key bow, or the large, flat end, often references an individual manufacturer.
Despite common belief, keys stamped with "Do not duplicate" or "It is unlawful to duplicate this key" are, with few exceptions, perfectly legal to duplicate. Some key blank manufacturers strictly restrict the sale of their own blanks. Some blanks are made only in small volumes and are not widely available.

ALOA

Aloa

Aloa is a genus of moth in the family Arctiidae.-Species:* Aloa cardinalis * Aloa ihlei Černý, 2009* Aloa lactinea -Aloa sensu lato::* Aloa albistriga Walker, 1865* Aloa collaris Hampson, 1891...

, an internationally recognized association for locksmiths, also considers such stamps an empty threat.

See also

• Keys
  Key (lock)
  A key is an instrument that is used to operate a lock. A typical key consists of two parts: the blade, which slides into the keyway of the lock and distinguishes between different keys, and the bow, which is left protruding so that torque can be applied by the user. The blade is usually intended to...
  
  
• Key relevance
  Key relevance
  In master locksmithing, key relevance is the measurable difference between an original key and a copy made of that key, either from a wax impression or directly from the original, and how similar the two keys are in size and shape...
  
  
• Locks
  Lock (device)
  A lock is a mechanical or electronic fastening device that is released by a physical object or secret information , or combination of more than one of these....
  
  
• Lock picking
  Lock picking
  Lock picking is the art of unlocking a lock by analyzing and manipulating the components of the lock device, without the original key. Although lock picking can be associated with criminal intent, it is an essential skill for a locksmith...
  
  
• Locksmithing
  Locksmithing
  Locksmithing began as the science and art of making and defeating locks. A lock is a mechanism that secures buildings, rooms, cabinets, objects, or other storage facilities. A key is often used to open a lock...