KW1 vs SC1: How to Tell Which House Key You Have
There's no shortage of different types of keys in the world, and it can feel overwhelming trying to figure out which type of house key you have. The good news? It's not as complicated as you think. Most modern house keys fall into one of two categories: a KW1 or SC1 keyway. KW stands for Kwikset and SC stands for Schlage, two of the most common residential lock brands in the US, both of which have been around for decades. It's important to know which keyway you have since KW1 and SC1 keys are not interchangeable, the key will only work with its matching lock type.
Key Differences: How to Know Which Type of Key You Have
Now that you know KW1 keys and SC1 keys can't be swapped out, it changes which blank key you purchase at CustomKeys.com, as your replacement key needs to match the type you are currently using to unlock your home.
Let’s figure out what type of key you have.
Step 1: Check the stamp.
This is the easiest and most obvious place to start. Flip your key over and look at the head, that's the part you actually hold when you turn the key. You should see some numbers and letters stamped right there. If you can make out a KW1 or SC1, great, you know your keyway and you're already ahead of the game. If the stamp is worn down or you just can't make it out, no worries. Keep reading.
Step2: Check the Grooves
If your key doesn't have a stamp or it's too worn to read, this is your next best option. Let’s take a look at the grooves. The KW1 key has different grooves on the two sides of the key. One side will have a narrow groove right next to a wider groove. The other side will have the same narrow and wide grooves, but they will be slightly separated. The SC1 is a bit different, one side has a single narrow groove that runs the length of the blade, and the other side has both a narrow and a wider groove.
Step 3: Look for the Numbers
If you still aren't sure, look for a number stamped on your key, most commonly a 66 or a 68. If you see a 66, you have a Kwikset KW1 key.
If you see a 68, you have a Schlage SC1. At this point, between the stamp, the grooves, and the numbers, you should have a pretty clear answer.
Final Thoughts on the Difference Between the KW1 and the SC1 Key
Just remember, the KW1 house key has two grooves, a pentagonal-shaped head with three cutouts, and a 66 stamp. The SC1 has one groove, a diamond-shaped head with one cutout, and a 68 stamp
These minor differences in appearance determine whether your key blank will be compatible with your home or office lock. Knowing how to spot the difference between a SC1 and KW1 is all it takes to make sure you're walking through your front door at the end of the day.
Still unsure of your key type? Take a trip to your local hardware store, and they should’ll have no problem telling you which key you have. You can also send us an email and we'll do our best to help
Most of the time, people don't need to worry about what type of house key they have, but when you're ordering a replacement key blank from Custom Keys, it suddenly becomes important.