Dictionary of Locksmithing Terms

Credit for many of the definitions used in in this dictionary go to the Lock Industry Standards and Training (LIST) Council.   Any term and its definition used from the LIST Council has been reprinted in its entirety.

In 1982 the LIST Council's predecessor released to the industry The Professional Glossary of Terms Relating to Cylinders, Keys and Master Keying. The Associated Locksmiths of America, Inc. was the first to publish and distribute it. The definitions and terminology in the glossary have since been adopted by most of the manufacturers, publications and associations as our industry standard and many manufacturers offer a printed version as part of their factory training.

The LIST Council was asked by ALOA and others to complete what would amount to a Dictionary for Locksmiths.

Many locksmiths around the country also submit terms and definitions and we wish to thank all of you who continue to take the time to make this a better teaching resource.

Resources for Tools & Training Materials

Resources for Tools & Training Materials