I have seen over the years just how often the supposedly simple act of getting a key copied has caused frustration and countless trips to various places trying to get even one copy that will actually work!
Most key duplicating machines in hardware stores and other outlets are run for indeterminate times between calibrations. Also different operators on the same machine will have different set-up procedures. The wear on the cutting wheel and the tendency for most things mechanical to shift with use can cause the tolerances to vary enough that your copy will not operate your lock.
There is relief. These guidelines can make life so much less stressful for you.
- Always get your copies made from an original key. If you use a first or second generation copy of the required key to make yet another copy, it is very likely that the variance from the factory specified depths of cut will be well out of the allowable tolerance. Using an original key to make your copies gives you a better chance to get a functioning copy.
- When you have us install new locks or rekey your existing locks, get your extra keys copied by us on site. We can test and verify that they are accurate copies before we leave.
- Keep the code number and keyway (Weiser, Schlage, Kwikset, USCAN, etc) from the original key on file. With this information, if you should misplace the original key, we can mill a new key to tolerances that meet factory specification.