Factory codes (e.g. BPF, VSF, ZF)

Shorthand initials the community uses for specific manufacturing groups, each with its own reputation for particular references, movements or finishing quirks — similar in function to how enthusiasts in other hobbies refer to specific workshops or tuners by abbreviation. Codes rise and fall in reputation as factories' output quality changes over time.

Source: Widely used shorthand across r/RepTime, RepGeek and RWI factory-comparison threads.