The zigzag is called the keyway. While they may increase security somewhat, they’re not unique. I think key manufacturers typically have a few dozen different keyways that they use repeatedly. That’s why every once in a while you may find a key fits into an unrelated lock.
I_SOMETIMES_EAT_HAM t1_j3kt83p wrote
Reply to comment by Scoobz1961 in How keys works. by -birdbirdbird-
The zigzag is called the keyway. While they may increase security somewhat, they’re not unique. I think key manufacturers typically have a few dozen different keyways that they use repeatedly. That’s why every once in a while you may find a key fits into an unrelated lock.