Question re Euro locks, not lock picking

[scudo]

Not to do with picking so hope its ok to ask here.
On 2 euro type locks I have, thats the type that have a keyway both external and internal when the lock is taken out the 2 keyways are a different length with a cam in the middle. I have noticed that you cannot put both keys fully in the keyway at the same time as one of them will not push fully home. Now thats ok for the most part except if I am out and my wife locks the door internally and keeps the key in the lock I cannot open the door with a key from the outside.
Is this normal?

[GWiens2001]

Yes, it is normal. There are some locks that have a special cam in the middle so you can use a key from the outside even if there is a key in the inner lock.

Gordon

[ARF-GEF]

Yes it is normal.
If you want to be able to operate an euro cylinder with keys isnerted in both sides you need to look for one wich has so called "emergency function" or "priority function".
The distinction is that by emergency function you can use the lock from any directions with a key on the other side, with priority function you can override a key isnerted from one direction only. In theory that is. SOmetimes companies call it what they think sounds better.

[scudo]

Thanks for the replies.
Made me think about my previous house as a couple of times I had to fiddle with the key in the door to get in, I just thought the lock was a bit dodgy but never replaced it anyway. When exiting the house we normally went out from the garage and had locked the front door and left the key in it (internally). Ah well 10 years later I know the answer to that one.