How Can A Locksmith Make A Key From A Lock?

This is comparatively an easier method to make the key from the lock. Key codes are specific for each lock. The locksmith needs to identify these special characteristics. This assists him to make another key for the defective lock. The key codes are of two types the bitting code and the blind code.

Locksmiths focus mostly on the bitting code. The reason being Bitting codes are used to make the actual keys from the key blank. The only problem is that this method does not always get successful. The reason being the locksmith does not always have access to the required key code.

Usually, the key code is stamped on the original key of the lock. Keycode cards are given to the customer if they use a high-security lock. So, now you need to use the lock model to know about the bitting code. You can go and ask your retailer or manufacturer. They provided these codes to licensed locksmiths only.

But this is not the case for all locks. Cabinet locks have their keys stamped in their lock bodies. Using the code cutter, the locksmith can make another key from the key codes. There are many key cutters used in the standard locksmith industry.

In the process of making new keys, you have to properly insert the key blank into the cutter. But, make sure to use the correct code cutting blade. Perfectly accurate and precise dimensions are taken by a locksmith on blank to make the key.

This one is a less tricky option. You don’t need to find out the codes to make a new key. The process is to mark out a key blank using the location of pins inside the lock cylinder. Usually, the process takes 10 to 15 minutes but for beginners, it may take some more time. Some locks like disk detainer locks take more time and are a little more difficult to unlock.

Conventionally, locksmiths used to use steel-made tough key blanks. Whereas Aluminium Key blanks are way too soft and can get cracked very easily under pressure. But now, they use a key grip, brass-made key blank, file, and one magnifying glass. These materials are softer and easier to make a key impression.

Locksmiths have a preference for some unique common tools. They usually prefer a 6-inch swiss #4 cut round file or pippin file. It gives precise and fine cuts. They also use the key grip for holding the key while making an impression on the key. And then, a magnifying glass to focus for precise cuts on the key. Pippin files are used by some locksmiths as they give both flat and round profiles for the key blank.

In this process, the first step is to insert the key blank inside the lock. Then they move it forward and back to make tiny little marks on the key blade. When sufficient marking is achieved, a key blank is taken for the filing process to make the cuts on the key blank.

It is necessary to make sure that the cuts are of an exact size so that pins get raised when inserted inside the lock. The locksmith must remain calm during the whole process. Otherwise, preciseness will not be achieved while making the cuts. In the worst case, the key blank may get cracked also.

This is the last option left with the locksmith when he is unable to make key impressions or the lock gets damaged. This process is not very easy to accomplish. It is sometimes more complex than making an impression of the key on a blank. They try to disassemble completely the whole lock cylinder. After that, they try to reverse engineer the key bitting process. They do it by maintaining the alignment inside the lock cylinder and pins height within.

So, the most important thing to make sure is that no part of the lock is damaged. , the alignment is not disturbed while disassembling. For this process, forensic locksmiths use Non Destructive methods of disassembling the lock. For example, in the case of a pin tumbler lock, the locksmith has to take out the lock from the door. Then, disassemble it so that alignment is not disturbed.

The locksmith also needs to ensure that the lock is in an unlocking position. This makes it simpler to disassemble. He removes the screws placed inside the shackle, then removes the top cover pin and circlip. In this way, the pin tumbler lock is completely disassembled.

Disassembling is advantageous for the locksmith. He can get direct access to the pins housed inside the lock cylinder. This helps them to make direct measurements of the internal lock components. Then, make a new key from the data obtained. He should note down the pin order from tip to shoulder. This enables them to match the pins with the pinning gauge.

After the new key details are noted down, he should reassemble the lock. He should line the tabs placed at the back of the tumbler. Then insert the spindle and fix the lock back on the door. In this way, the lock remains intact and you don’t need to buy a new lock.