Lost the last key to your door lock or car? Don’t panic! Although it may seem impossible, you can still manage to make a copy of it, even if you don’t have the original one.
Making a key from scratch without having the original one is known as “key origination,” which requires the use of specialized tools and techniques.
When the original ones aren’t available, locksmiths make keys using several methods, such as cutting keys from a code, scoping or reading locks, disassembling or decoding cylinders, and imprisoning. In this short but comprehensive guide, you can find more information about each one.
Read on to learn how you can make a copy of a key without the original key or use the Houston key duplication service to get you out of trouble!
Cutting a New Key by Code
Locating the code – a sequence of numbers or letters that corresponds to a specific key cut– is one of the easiest ways to make a key without the original one.
Using their expertise and specialized software or databases, an experienced locksmith can identify the specific lock brand or model, assess its physical features, and see if this code is available.
More often than not, key codes are printed or etched onto the lock cylinder itself, included on a label or sticker attached to the lock or the product where it’s installed, or on an automotive part (for car keys).
Once the code is found, it’s entered into a computer or matching code system from manufacturers. If there’s a match, the software provides the locksmith with specific instructions on how to cut the key using their key-cutting machine.
Manufacturers often use standardized keyways to make keys, which means that keys for different locks may have similar cutting patterns, but code systems may overlap between them. A knowledgeable locksmith will inspect the lock to see if the code is correct and choose the right key to use.
After identifying and verifying the code, the locksmith can print and insert a card into the code-cutting machine to cut the new key. Some modern devices are equipped with pre-programmed key parameters that make this process easier, but both manual and computerized methods work very well.
Scoping or Reading a Lock Cylinder
Scoping is another technique used to create new keys without the original ones. If this method is chosen, locksmiths will use small cameras or tools to visually inspect the wafers or pins inside a lock cylinder to determine the necessary cut depths for a key.
Locks are usually disassembled and reset when a working key is lost or damaged. However, locksmiths can use cameras or similar tools to read the wafers inside them and create a new key.
It’s important to use devices specifically designed for this purpose in order to achieve the best results. For example, some brands have created specialized, tiny cameras to scope locks.
Although this method won’t work in all cases, it may be a potential option if you’ve lost the key to a lock and want to make a copy of it. Additionally, many locksmiths rely on this technique to identify and even solve other issues, such as worn or broken pins, dirt or foreign objects obstructing the lock’s internal mechanisms, and internal component misalignment.
Disassembling or Decoding the Cylinder
When there’s full access to cylinders, locksmiths can disassemble them to measure the pins or wafers inside and determine the precise depth and location of the cuts needed to create a functional key.
While disassembling and decoding the cylinder can be convenient and cost-effective, it’s only recommended in cases where there’s no suspicion that the keys have been compromised, such as when they fall into another person’s hands or can be matched back to the lock.
With this technique, locksmiths can create new keys that will work for all existing locks in a system. If there’s a risk that the lost key could be used to gain unauthorized access to a home, for example, rekeying all locks may be the best option.
Impressioning a Key
Last but not least, there’s key impressioning, which is used when the other techniques cannot be implemented. This method takes advantage of the fact that most locks operate by aligning pins or wafers to a specific position.
Such internal components can leave marks, also known as “impressions,” on a tool called a “key blank,” which is a metal piece with a specific cross-sectional profile that hasn’t been cut to a specific bitting.
A skilled locksmith can insert a razor-sharp key blank into the lock and turn it around to record the marks left by the internal components. These impressions can then be used as guides to determine the cuts required to make a working key.
Although most locksmiths are familiar with this technique, key impressioning calls for extensive experience and knowledge in order to provide the desired results, as the marks can be difficult to read.
Impressioning works with many different lock models. However, it can take some time to figure out which key blank works for a specific one. Also, filing this metal piece and reading the marks correctly may require multiple attempts.
Have You Ever Wondered: “Can I Make a New Key Myself?”
While many people can try to make a new key themselves, all of the techniques mentioned above require specialized knowledge, tools, and experience. Therefore, your best bet is to call a seasoned locksmith.
For instance, master key systems have an intricate design with multiple levels of keys and varying access privileges. If you lose the only key, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll successfully create a copy without specialized tools or expertise. That’s why finding a locksmith near you in Houston, TX and surrounding areas may be a better idea.
Fortunately, professional locksmiths are equipped with the right tools and the necessary knowledge to help you make a copy of your keys, even if you don’t have the original one.
Final Thoughts: Why Call Locksmiths to Make a Copy of a Key
Making a copy of a key is complicated for several reasons. As mentioned, all the techniques require specialized tools and knowledge. Plus, this process must adhere to strict legal and ethical standards to ensure people’s safety.
Besides having a deep understanding of lock mechanics, locksmiths know the right techniques to duplicate keys without compromising the system’s integrity or your property’s safety. So, the best decision you can make is to leave this job in their hands!
