How Does Key Cutting Work?

Key Cutting is a process of creating a duplicate key for an existing one. This is a common service provided by locksmiths and other professional key cutters. It is a critical skill that requires an extensive knowledge of different types of keys and locks. Those interested in learning to be a key cutter can improve their skills by participating in an apprenticeship or technical program, attending key cutting training workshops, practicing regularly, and staying up to date on advancements in technology.

Getting a replacement or spare key cut is a simple, affordable way to provide security for your home or office. Having spare keys available can also help resolve lockout situations quickly and efficiently. However, if you are not careful, it is possible to make mistakes that will cause your new key to not work correctly. To avoid such pitfalls, it is important to know how key cutting works before you decide where to have your keys made.

The Key Cutting process is a high-precision operation that utilizes a special machine to produce duplicate keys. This machine is designed with two vises, with the original key being secured in one and a blank replacement key being placed in the other. When activated, the machine uses its cutter to replicate the cuts from the original key onto the blank replacement key. The original key must be inserted into the correct position and clamped firmly to ensure that the proper cuts are made.

Once the key is cut, it undergoes a quality assurance test to ensure that it fits seamlessly within the lock it is intended for. This rigorous quality control process ensures that every duplicate key produced by the machine is as accurate as possible.

Many hardware stores and some larger retail chains have key cutting kiosks that can create a duplicate key in minutes. These kiosks are usually located near the front door and use optical scanning to scan the key and then a computer program uses artificial intelligence to interpret the image and drive a cutting machine accordingly. These machines cannot create a car key, but they are great for most common keys.

If you are looking for a more advanced machine that will do key originating, then you should look at the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro or the Keyline Gymkana or Laser Key Products 3D Extreme. These machines have a small learning curve but are very easy to operate once you get the hang of it.

In the past, key cutting was a costly and time-consuming process that was only available for those who could afford it. However, innovative technologies like “Key by Photo” have revolutionized the industry, making it more accessible than ever while maintaining an unprecedented level of precision. This technology has opened the door to a new generation of consumers who can enjoy the convenience of having spare keys readily available to them in an emergency.

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