Most of the time when locksmiths are asked to make a key they are making a spare. It might be a house key that someone wants to cut a copy of to give to a family in case of an emergency. Generally their is an existing key that just needs to be duplicated. But what about when you don’t have that key? Perhaps you got a second hand car with only one set of keys. If they go missing before you’ve had a chance to get a spare key cut, what can be done?
In most situations a locksmith will be able to create a key for a lock, even when there isn’t one to copy. There are two main ways in which a locksmith can make a key from lock.
CRACKING THE CODE
If the lock is able to be disassembled a locksmith can crack the code of the key and create a key to match.
Cracking the code of the lock means understanding the pins which make up the code of the lock. The pins within the lock are different lengths and the order of each of these pins are what makes the codes of locks different from one another. Once a locksmith has pulled the lock apart and deciphered the type of pins and their order, a key can be made to match.
If you’re interested in reading a bit more about how keys work check out this blog post.
MAKING AN IMPRESSION
A locksmith is also able in some circumstances to take an impression of the lock. Unlike cracking the lock’s code, this does not require the lock to be dismantled. A lock impression allows a locksmith to make a key without decoding the lock. For a qualified locksmith this can be an efficient way to create a new key. A blank key is inserted into the lock and turned. The pins will press against the key leaving marks where cuts need to be made.
This process may need to be repeated multiple times to ensure all the correct cuts are made. There are many trial runs made to create the perfect key. It take a skilled locksmith with the right tools to be able to pull this off.
Why would I need a locksmith to make a key from a lock?
There are many scenarios where it isn’t possible for a key to be copied from an existing key. People have accidentally thrown keys out with the rubbish, dropped them down a drain, or had them stolen. In most situations we are able to help out and create a new key (and even a spare while we are at it) on the spot. If you have lost your one and only set of keys give us a call on (03) 9495 1122. If you only have one set of keys it might be a good idea to drop in and see us to have a spare set made up.
