Patented key

A patented key is one with a profile or mechanism protected by the manufacturer’s patent. While the patent is in force, nobody else can make key blanks that imitate it.

In practice, this makes it hard to get a key made for your cylinder outside the manufacturer’s own channels. It usually comes with a key security card that identifies the owner of the system.

It is worth knowing that patents only last for a limited time. When they expire, the profile may end up being copied, and control then depends on the key also being restricted. So when you are choosing between high security lock cylinders, look at the cylinder as a whole and do not stop at the word patented. If you like, send us a photo of yours and we will tell you what we see.