Why You Should Leave Key Cutting to the Professionals

Key Cutting is a process of using a machine to create a duplicate copy of an existing key. A key cutting professional can make several duplicates in a short period of time, saving you money on replacement keys and the stress of being locked out.

It is common for people to misplace their keys, leading to lockouts that can be expensive and stressful. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid these issues by having spare keys cut for family members, friends or neighbors. Many people try to do their own key cutting at home, but this is a task that should be left to professionals. Key cutting requires precision and finesse that is not easily achieved by amateurs, especially if the key is high-security or a mortise or cylinder lock.

The main purpose of key cutting is to give you a spare for emergencies, but they also help to maintain the condition of your original keys. If you use the same key on a regular basis, it can cause excessive wear that could result in it getting stuck in the lock. Having a spare key can prevent this problem by switching between the two, and you can save your original key for occasions when it is required.

A locksmith has access to specialized machinery that can accurately duplicate most standard keys in a matter of minutes. This is much faster than if you were to use a self-serve key duplicator at a big box store or a hardware store, and it can be more reliable in the long run.

There are various types of key cutting machines, and they all work in a different way. Some are designed to work with most standard residential keys, while others are meant for high-security locks in office buildings and warehouses. Some are even able to cut remote key fobs and transponder keys, but these machines require additional training and expertise.

Most DIYers will use a key cutting machine that is designed for regular keys, but these are not as accurate as the specialized ones. They may not make the proper cuts, which can leave your new key ineffective or damaged. In addition, these machines aren’t always calibrated regularly, which can result in the keys they produce not working correctly.

If you do decide to attempt your own key cutting, be sure to follow the directions exactly. Also, remember to test the duplicate key before leaving the house. Some people will assume that the duplicate works because it looks the same as the original, but this can lead to a disastrous outcome. You don’t want to get locked out of the house because you accidentally copied the wrong key! If you have trouble finding a quality key cutting service near you, ask your neighbors or coworkers for recommendations. Also, you can search online review sites for key-cutting services. Just be sure to find a trustworthy service with a good track record.

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