Design Sargent 6300 large format interchangeable cores (LFIC) utilize a control lug found in the 3rd and 4th chambers of the core. The Sargent 6300…
Introduction Broken keys are a frequent and lucrative source of revenue for locksmiths. Analogous to lockouts, extracting broken keys can be done in quick order…
New Key Bitting Specifications There are 5 new key bitting specifications (KBS) available on the Key Bitting Specifications page in the Tools section: Chicago Disc…
Introduction Far too often I have seen cylinders rekeyed incorrectly. I’ve seen this in person and online, specifically on YouTube. The incorrect rekeying process typically…
Introduction Examples abound of instances where you must decode a key in the field or in your shop. At its most basic level you may simply want the bitting from a key. You may…
Note: This is article is not a primer for key control policies and procedures. I don’t proclaim to be an expert on key control policies…
Introduction Locksmiths are usually lucky enough to have the current, soon to be old, keys available when rekeying locks. That’s not always the case, however, and there are times…
Introduction core n. a complete unit, often with a “figure eight” shape, which usually consists of the plug, shell, tumblers, springs, plug retainer and spring…
Here’s an excellent write-up from our very own David Lewis on how to use free software to create master key hierarchy charts. Introduction Master key…
Introduction As I mentioned in last weeks Tyler’s Take, learning and utilizing proper locksmith terminology is very beneficial to locksmiths. This week we’re going to…