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01Before a key can be cut it has to be the right blank. Get the blank wrong and no amount of accurate cutting produces a working key. Blank identification is the first skill a new locksmith is taught and the one that separates a five minute counter job from a twenty minute one.
- A keyway filters which blade can enter. It is not a security feature by itself.
- Profile, blade length and shoulder position all have to match before cutting.
- Tip referenced keys cut from the shoulder will enter and never turn.
Covers What a keyway is, Reading a blank, Brass, nickel silver and the cheap blank problem.
Read this topic →There are two families of key machine and they solve different problems. A duplicator copies an existing key. A code machine cuts to a specification. Both need calibrating, and an uncalibrated machine produces keys that work today and stop working in a month.
- A duplicator copies wear. A code machine cuts to the manufacturer's specification.
- Deburr every key. A ragged edge shaves brass into the cylinder.
- Cut and measure a known test key daily. Drift is invisible until keys start failing.
Covers Duplicators, Code machines, Calibration and quality control.
Read this topic →Key control is the answer to a question customers rarely ask and always need. Who can get a copy of this key made. On an ordinary keyway the answer is anybody with five dollars and a hardware store. For a building, a rental portfolio or a business that is a real problem.
- Do not duplicate has no legal force and creates only hesitation.
- Real control comes from a restricted supply chain plus an active patent on the profile.
- Ask when the patent expires before promising a customer long term control.
Covers Do not duplicate is not key control, Restricted and patented keyways, Running a key control program.
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