- USA Lock & Key
- April 18, 2022
Table of Contents
If you need a spare key, it’s important to know where to make keys. Whether you need a new key for your home, car, or office, there are a variety of options available to you. From hardware stores to locksmiths, there are several places you can go to get a key made. We’ll explore the process of key cutting and share some tips on where to go to make keys. So, if you need a spare key, keep reading to learn more.
A machine called a Mill is used to create keys. Milling machines are available as key originators and duplicators. The making of a key is referred to as milling. Finally, before being laser etched/cut into its own pattern, the key is known as a “blank key”. It’s also possible for a company’s logo or trademark to be embossed on the head of the key during production.
Cylinders, key barrels, and locks are all made in the same way, called a lathe. While we don’t make keys ourselves, you can count on us at USA Lock & Key for all of your locksmith needs. You may reach out to us at any time for a quote on a comprehensive security system for your house
How do they Duplicate Keys?
A key duplicator is a machine that makes duplicate keys. The cutting tool (or blade) is aligned with your original key, which is placed in a vice on one side of the key duplicator. And then, a blank key is put in a vice on the opposite side of the machine that contains the alignment tool. The alignment tool is a piece of metal that runs parallel to the blade. The alignment bar on your key duplicator, often known as the “key guide”, ensures that the keys are aligned properly with one another.
Next, the key duplicator is switched on, and as the original and blank keys move horizontally across the machine, the blade cuts into the blank key using the real one as a pattern. Finally, the duplicate key will be sanded later for a smooth finish. A duplicate key that is identical to the genuine one was created.
When making a duplicate key it is important to use a correct key blank. Choosing the appropriate key blank for your residential locks is usually straightforward. We have roughly thousands of different key blanks at USA Lock & Key. And then, to ensure accuracy and quality, we try to select a key blank that is as similar to the original as possible.
Read a Complete Guide on How Lock is Made – making, how to make, used, parts, components, steps
How Long Does it Take to Cut a Key?
A professional locksmith can quickly duplicate a typical key in a matter of minutes. To replicate a more complex key takes anywhere from 25 to 30 minutes. Further, the amount of time it takes to get your key copied may vary based on where you go to get keys made.
Looking to make keys and wondering where to get a copy made?
While self-service key cutting kiosks are increasingly being found in big box stores and hardware shops, these machines aren’t necessarily dependable over time. While they are likely to function well when new, there is no assurance that they will be regularly calibrated or well maintained over time.
Many key machines are maintained carefully by USA Lock & Key, where if cutting wheels become dulled, they’re changed to guarantee precise cuts. Our machines are computerized for increased accuracy in removing human error. Each week, our locksmiths cut hundreds of keys. Furthermore, our highly experienced technicians are courteous and efficient. We offer affordable yet quality service we cut keys correctly the first time.
Can a Locksmith Duplicate or Make Keys Without the Original?
If you don’t have the original key or it has been destroyed over time, a locksmith will need to use a code cutter to figure out the depths of your lock’s key code groove. The locksmith will be able to determine how your key must be cut based on this information.
Locksmiths can make keys for locks without the original key by cutting keys from a code, scoping the lock cylinders to read the depths, then, disassembling and decrypting a cylinder, or imprinting them. Each process has advantages and disadvantages; a professional locksmith will know which technique is best right away.
Contact Us For All Your Lock and Key Needs!
If you’re in need of a new key or have lost your original, don’t worry! USA Lock & Key has you covered. We are capable to duplicate keys in a matter of minutes, cut keys correctly the first time, provide affordable yet quality services as well as so much more! We have thousands of different key blanks to choose from and our machines are calibrated regularly for precision cuts. Our locksmiths are experienced and efficient, so you can be sure that your keys will be copied correctly the first time. Contact us today for all your lock and key needs!
3859 S Valley View Blvd Suite 8, Las Vegas, NV 89103, United States
