Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The correct choice for cutting flat keys is the slotter cutter. This type of cutter is specifically designed to create the grooves and slots necessary for flat key profiles. The slotter cutter features a thin blade that allows for precise cuts, which is essential when producing the notches required by the key's design.

Flat keys typically have one or more slots that need to be expertly machined to ensure they fit into the corresponding lock mechanism. The slotter cutter excels in achieving these detailed patterns with accuracy, making it the ideal tool for this application.

In contrast, the other options are less suited for flat key cutting. A filing cutter is generally used for finishing and smoothing surfaces quickly, rather than creating defined cuts or slots. A milling cutter, while versatile, is primarily used for cutting and shaping solid materials and might not be optimal for the specific task of making flat key cuts. The side milling slotter, which is designed for different milling operations, may not provide the precision needed for the unique profiles of flat keys either. Thus, for cutting flat keys effectively, the slotter cutter stands out as the most appropriate tool.