66 or 68 on Your House Key? Here’s What It Means

Have you ever looked at your house key? Like, really looked at it?

If you have, you may have noticed some numbers and letters stamped into it. Most commonly the numbers 66 or 68. It’s okay, you can go check your key. We’ll wait.

Back? Here's what those numbers actually mean.

What Do the Numbers and Letters on Your House Key Mean?

Now, you are probably wondering what the heck those numbers mean. Right? And maybe you have more than just the 66 or 68. Perhaps, your key also includes a trio of letters and numbers, KW1 or SC1. It looks more mysterious than it is. It's actually pretty standard.

Basically, Keys are manufactured for two of the most common keyway types used in residential locks: Kwikset and Schlage. If you have KW1 on your key, you've got a Kwikset. And if you have SC1, you've got a Schlage.

Why Your Key Code Matters When Getting a Replacement

What if you only have the numbers 66 or 68 and no trio? Well, that is also pretty standard. In general, 66 means a Kwikset KW1  and 68 means a Schlage SC1.

So why does this matter? It's more than just a stamp on your key. The numbers refer to the groove shape, and that groove has to match the type of lock to even slide into it. Get the wrong one and it simply won't fit, no matter what.

A 66 KW1 Kwikset key will not fit into a 68 SC1 Schlage lock, and vice versa. When you go to get your new keys copied, the wrong keyway type simply won't work, no matter how it's cut. A good locksmith will catch this before cutting your key, but it never hurts to already know what you're working with when you walk through the door.

At Custom Keys, we make ALL of our keys for both of those two types of locks. So whether you have a Kwikset KW1 or Schlage SC1 on your front door, we have the key for you. And bonus! We also offer free shipping in the US for all orders over $30. Stock up and save!