CML Lock Mechanisms & Hardware 2

Question 1

What is the primary function of a cam in a pin tumbler lock cylinder?

Accepted Answer

To actuate the locking bolt or latch when the plug rotates

Answer

The cam is attached to the rear of the plug and directly actuates the locking mechanism (bolt or latch) as the plug rotates.

Question 2

In a high-security lock, what is the purpose of a sidebar?

Accepted Answer

To provide an additional locking mechanism that must align before the plug can rotate

Answer

A sidebar is a secondary blocking mechanism that requires its own set of cuts or rotations to align before the plug is free to turn, defeating common picking techniques.

Question 3

What differentiates a 'dead latch' from a standard spring latch?

Accepted Answer

A dead latch has a plunger that deadlocks the latch bolt to prevent it from being pushed back

Answer

A dead latch has a small auxiliary plunger that, when depressed by the strike plate, prevents the latch bolt from being pushed back by a credit card or similar tool.

Question 4

Which warding type in a lock cylinder is designed specifically to prevent the insertion of incorrect keys?

Accepted Answer

Paracentric warding

Answer

Paracentric warding features complex keyway profiles with curves extending past the center line, making it difficult to insert non-brand keys and increasing picking resistance.

Question 5

A locksmith is examining a Medeco lock. What is the unique feature that distinguishes Medeco's security over standard pin tumbler locks?

Accepted Answer

Its key cuts have angular bitting that rotates the pins to align a sidebar

Answer

Medeco cylinders require key cuts to both lift pins to the shear line AND rotate them to specific angles so sidebar slots align, combining height and rotation for dual authentication.

(CML) Certified Master Locksmith Practice Test

(CML) Certified Master Locksmith Practice Test

CML Lock Mechanisms & Hardware 2