Common materials include soda cans, old credit cards, hotel keys, and even metal objects like butter knives if you have a file. To use this method, you'll need a sturdy material for your cloned key that won't break in the lock. This isn't a long-term solution by any means, but if you need a quick backup, it does work well. Method 2: Outline and Copy Key on Other MaterialĪnother way to make a quick and dirty key by hand is by tracing your key onto another material and cutting that tracing out. Double-check that your key blank matches your original exactly. If that's not the case, you may have used the wrong key blank. If the key doesn't fit into the lock at all, check for any slag or pieces of metal extruding from the side of the key. If your key doesn't work, realign it back with the key and make sure you didn't miss anything or misalign it while grinding. When your filed key is done, insert it into the lock and test it.Begin filing away at your blank while using your original key as a guide.Align both keys side-by-side and clamp them in a vise or vise-grip.To copy a key with a file, follow these three steps. However, with a bit of improvising, most small files will probably work. When it comes to the file, you'll ideally want a pippin file (expensive), Dremel (kind of expensive), or triangular file (cheaper). Online stores like Amazon, Grainger, or CLK Supplies.A local hardware store or retail stores like Home Depot or Ace.You can find a key blank for your specific lock at: Note: This method only works with pin tumbler lock keys and will not aid in copying most other types of keys or keys of higher-security locks-such as dimple locks or pin tumbler locks with sidebars. If you try using a key blank from the wrong type and brand of lock, the key likely won't even enter the keyway. This is a relatively easy method and only requires owning a vice, a file, and a key blank that fits your specific lock. The first do-it-yourself method of copying a key is filing down a key blank to match your existing key. They also tend to be more fragile.īut a poorly working key is always better than no key at all, so let's cover three great methods of copying a key yourself. There are also ways to copy your key by hand without the need for external services such as kiosks or locksmiths.īefore we jump into these DIY methods, it is important to state that short of buying your own key cutting machine, homemade keys rarely perform better than professionally cut ones. I've used them dozens of times over the years and have yet to have a key not work. So if you need a quick key made up and don't want to deal with any hassle, key kiosks are worth checking out. You can even color-code keys for different locks! You can get decorative keys with kittens, flowers, or even your favorite sports team. Key kiosks are pretty nifty and let you choose from various key designs. You can commonly find these self-service machines in most large retail stores such as Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart, Fleet Farm, Tractor Supply, and many other locations. More complex keys can sometimes be scanned at the booth, programmed elsewhere, and mailed to you. ![]() However, each kiosk brand offers different types of keys and services, so you'll need to look into the kiosk near you to see what they offer. All you need is your original key and a card for payment. You can use these machines to copy most house and padlock keys, and some even copy car keys and RFID key cards/chips. They then cut a perfect duplicate within minutes. They work by laser-scanning your key to determine the type of key and the depths of the cuts. ![]() Key duplicating machines are automated self-service kiosks that don't require interaction with a locksmith or any employee whatsoever. If you're looking for a quick, cheap, and easy way to make a copy of your key, consider checking out a key copying kiosk-the most popular of which are Minute Key and KeyMe.
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