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10 Ways To Build Your Key Cutting Romford Empire
How to Get a Key Cut by a Key Cutting Machine

There are a variety of choices when you need to copy the key. You can utilize a self-service machine in the hardware store or you can find an experienced locksmith.

The key duplicator is equipped with an elongated vice that holds the original key and an alignment tool that makes sure it is aligned the blade.

How Keys Are Cut

A key cutting machine can be used to produce keys for replacement. It can be utilized in stores for home improvement or locksmiths to create copies of existing keys, or it can be used to create a new key that is completely brand new. It is important to understand how a key cutting machine functions prior to using one, however, as there are several ways that it could be misused.

Professionals Use Decoding Tools

A locksmith is likely to employ a decoding device to cut keys. This tool will help them determine the depths of the initial cuts. This information will then be used to make an exact copy of the key. This tool is crucial particularly for keys that are older and have been worn down by regular use.

Professionals Use Dual Key Cutting Machines

There are two main types that are single-sided and double-sided. The latter allows you to cut mortice and cylinder keys on the same machine. These machines are extremely loved by DIYers since they are cheaper than buying two separate machines. They are also more precise than machines that just have one side.

The majority of key-cutting equipment operates on a very simple principle. The original key is put in a vice and lined up with the cutter. A blank key is put into the opposite side of the vice and then it's traced by a separate part of the machine, which produces an exact copy of the original. While this method appears easy to do, it really requires a lot of skill to do correctly.

Many DIYers and non-professionals make mistakes when using a key duplicator. The biggest mistake is simply not being careful. It's important to take the time to examine every key for nicks and scratches, and also the overall state of the teeth. This will ensure the key is properly fitted into the lock and doesn't get stuck in the locking mechanism. It is also essential to check the alignment of the machine periodically with calibration keys or identical blanks. Cleaning the machine will also help it perform better. This is a simple job that will save you a lot of headaches over the long term.

Self-Service Key Cutting Kiosks

There are many options available for key copying. Many grocery stores have self-service key-making machines, which are a quick and inexpensive solution to those who need additional keys. These machines can produce keys that are not correct and are prone to high levels of errors. Professional key cutting services can be used by those who want a high-quality key.

Most home and hardware stores offer key duplication. Some stores have a key-cutting machine while others may have an employee on staff who can do it by hand. These stores can usually duplicate standard house keys padlock keys, padlock keys, and transponder keys. If you have a specific type of key, it's recommended to call ahead or check their website to confirm that they have the ability to duplicate what you need.

Walmart offers in-store cutting and key copying services at their MinuteKey kiosks. The kiosks can copy a variety of residential and business keys including the majority of Kwikset, Schlage, SC1 Weiser and Masterlock M1 keys. They are unable to copy keys for school buildings or keys for cars, keys that have high security, or keys that say "Do not duplicate".

Key duplication is also offered in a variety of other home improvement and retail shops. Ace Hardware is North America's largest chain of hardware and offers key duplication at all of its locations. They cut standard house and office keys as well as key fobs. Menards has multiple locations across the United States. Some of their stores are equipped with MinuteKey kiosks while others offer in-store key cutting services.

Kroger is another popular retailer which offers key duplication in their stores. You can find MinuteKey kiosks in all of their stores and they can duplicate standard or brass keys, and also some special keys, such as padlocks and fobs.

Sears even though they're not a huge name anymore, still has some locations and can cut standard keys. They also cut high-performance keys as well as custom keys. Kmart another major retailer, will also provide cutting keys in-store. They usually cut standard high-performance, brass, or keys as well as key types that aren't common, like padlocks or fobs.

Professional Key Duplicators for Keys


Professional key duplicators can be a good investment for locksmiths who want to cut many keys quickly and precisely. They are faster than manual-based machines and are highly accurate. They are equipped with a computer that can be programmed that detects the code on your key and cuts it for you. These machines are also easy to use as there isn't much technical knowledge required. These machines are easy to operate provided you know how to play angry birds and post on Facebook. Silca Futura Edge & Pro machines are among the most popular professional duplicators.

Besides cutting keys, these machines also decode them, and create keys that aren't included in their database. These machines can be used to cut all traditional keys for cylinders, as well as sidewinder and laser style automotive keys. They can also be used to cut tibbe and tubular keys, too.

The majority of professional key duplicaters have a large database that includes more than 100 different motorcycle and car brands, as well as 80 different single-sided home keys. A key duplicator allows professionals to easily duplicate any key. They can duplicate keys that were rekeyed and are not compatible anymore.

Certain keys are designed to be difficult to duplicate. This is done to safeguard the keys from theft and unauthorized replication. These keys are often marked as "Do not duplicate" to warn others not to try. This warning isn't legally binding.

A pattern grinder is a different option to make duplicate keys. This machine can grind only a tiny amount of the original key to create a blank which can be cut with the standard cutter. However, this method isn't as secure as using a professional key duplicator. Keys cut using a pattern grinder are unstable and therefore not as reliable as keys made of steel by a professional locksmith.

The right tools are crucial when creating your own duplicate keys. There are DIY kits available that contain all the equipment needed to make a key replica within a matter of minutes. These kits come with simple instructions, making it much easier than ever to create an exact key replica.

Key Blanks

Key blanks are metal shapes with slots cut out of them so they can be inserted into various locks. They're usually made of brass or an alloy of brass and nickel. Certain key blanks are marked with information that can help identify the manufacturer of the lock and the type of bitting or cross-sectional shape, the blank will need to be able to match to function in a particular lock cylinder's keyway.

For instance, the old-fashioned Arrow keys have sloped straight sides whereas modern Corbin Russwin keys have rounded edges. The key bow, or head, of a key with an old-fashioned design also has a distinct shape. romford double glazing is easily recognizable by key cutters and can be used to aid in the cutting process.

The majority of keys for houses are made from nickel silver blanks that are more robust and pliable than other key materials. They are less likely to break. Key blanks made from nickel silver are usually stamped or engraved with the name of the manufacturer of the lock to make them more easily identifiable to key cutters. Certain key blanks are marked as "restricted" or engraved with directions like 'Do Not Duplicate however, they are still legal to duplicate in the event that the proper instructions are followed.

A lot of key makers only sell duplicate keys that are keyed exactly as the locks that a customer's currently have or padlocks. This ensures that when a customer loses or damages their key, they'll be able to get replacement keys that work with their existing locks. The original keys are removed from their locks and put into a key duplicator with the new blanks, so that the key maker can create an exact duplicate of both sides of the key without damaging the lock.

Certain manufacturers of lock cylinders create lookalike key blanks in standard keyway sizes to operate their brand name locks if cut precisely. Kaba Ilco, for example produces "LookAlikes" in standard keyways, either 5-pin or 6-pin, that work with brand name locks when cut correctly. This can save the customer the time and money of purchasing the brand name key to work in the lock, if they can find it. It also allows them to have an identical appearance across their entire property.

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