Locksmith – A locksmith is a trades-person who sells, installs and repair locks. A locksmith can re-key locks to make them all on the one key or install a master key system and high security locks. They can also unlock a locked door by picking a lock. Most locksmiths have a mobile service to perform onsite repairs and installations.
Changing locks – A lock is changed or rekeyed when a new key combination is required. To change the lock the lock cylinder is first disassembled. New pin combinations are placed in the lock barrel to suit the new keys. Once re-keyed, only the new keys will work the lock. This locks out any old keys.
Keys cut to suit lock – Cutting keys for a lock is done in a similar way to changing locks. The lock is disassembled and the lock pins are measured. The measured pins relate to the depth of cuts in the key. A new key is cut to the pin code. The new key now works in the lock.
key cut to code – A key can be cut to code to match a lock. The key is cut in a specialised key cutting machine that cuts each depth of cut precisely. Each type of lock has its own spacing and depth of cut. A code number may be stamped on various locks. The code number is looked up in a database by the locksmith. The database translates the code into the key cuts.
Remove broken key – If a key breaks in a lock there are 2 ways to remove it. Either the key is extracted without disassembly or the lock is disassembled to remove the key. Specialised key removal tools with fine sharp barbs or contours are used to remove a broken key. Disassembly of the lock allows the broken key to be pushed out from the back of the lock cylinder.
Pick a lock – A locksmith can pick a lock using lock picks. There are different lock picking tools for various types of locks. If you are locked out of your home, you might see your locksmith use a lock pick and a tension tool to open the lock. A pick gun is also a common tool for opening locks. More modern lock picks have a built in tensioner and use pin by pin lock picking.
Key alike – Most locks can have their pin combinations changed. If the locks are changed to the same pin combination to match a common key we call this “Keying alike” By keying alike locks it is possible to have one key to open a range of locks. eg. If the locks in your house are keyed alike, you will only require one key to open every lock.
Master key system – A master key system is a way to control which keys open particular locks. The lock uses special master pins to allow multiple keys to work in the lock. The arrangement of these master pins will allow some keys to open the lock and others not to open. A master key system can allow a master key, a grand master key or even a great grand master key to open a particular lock.
Registered Key – A registered key is a key that can only be duplicated under strict conditions. These conditions usually require a signature or other authority by the registered key system administrator. Registered keys have protection from illegal duplication by using a countries intellectual property laws. Often master key systems will use a registered key and lock barrel. The registered key system helps to keep the integrity and security or the system.
Locks installed – Locksmiths install all types of locks. Locks installed on wooden doors include deadlocks, entrance locks and fire exit locks. Locks installed on utility doors include padlocks with hasp and staples, night latches and emergency exit locks and meter box locks. Locksmiths install specialty locks on commercial doors such as lockable bolts and block locks. More intricate lock fitting is done on cupboards and cabinets.