It may be possible to order products that can be opened by an existing Master Lock key. Take your existing key and lock to a hardware store (Ace, True Value, Do it Best, etc.), locksmith or other outlet that sells Master Lock products. Ask them to order the product with the same key number that is on your key.
Master Key Systems Are Created on Restricted Keyways
Restricted keyways are patented, which means that they can't be sold on the open market and can't be copied at a hardware store or commercial location. Instead, master keys can only be copied with your authorization by your key provider.
A “Direct Code” is the exact numbers related to the cuts or the depths of each valley in your key. This is typically used to identify a specific key and how the lock should be combinated to allow the key to operate. For the most part, this happens from the lock manufacturer.
The key number is stamped on the original keys provided with your lock. If you do not know the key number, it is possible to obtain additional keys from a locksmith who can impression your lock. If you do know the key number, go to a locksmith or local hardware store to order keys.
Master Key Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a master key for all locks? For certain systems of locks, yes. A master key is specifically designed to unlock a given locking system. Having one key for safekeeping can help open a lock in case its paired key is lost or damaged.
Key Replacements
Take your existing key and lock to a hardware store (Ace, True Value, Do it Best, etc.), locksmith or other outlet that sells Master Lock products. Ask them to order the product with the same key number that is on your key. Please call ahead, as not every retailer will provide this service.
Who can get such a key? Any building owner can contact a locksmith for a master key. However, you should know that since it's the lock that's different, and not the key, installing a master key system is likely to involve changing all the locks in the building.
The best way to unlock a master lock is to call a professional emergency locksmith service to do the job for you. It might be a bit expensive compared to some of the other methods, but you will save a lot of time in the process. A professional locksmith will be able to make you a spare key for the lock.
In a Master Keyed system, a master key opens all the locks in the system although each lock also has its own unique key.
You Can Still Duplicate Your "Do Not Copy" Keys
The “Do Not Copy” inscription on a key acts as a warning, but it does not actually prevent someone from duplicating the key. That means that if you bought your locks from a reputable locksmith, you'd need to go to the same company or locksmith and ask them for new keys.
Key Identification Numbers
Keys are typically printed with an alphanumeric code called a key identification number, a key code or a key number that allows locksmiths and companies to replicate keys without the need to install a whole new lock system. Key codes fall into two categories: blind codes and bitting codes.
Master key: The master key can open all locks you have in your residential or commercial property.
Even if you don't have a key for a specific lock, it's possible a locksmith can help. There are several types of keys and it's helpful to know which ones a locksmith will duplicate for you. Here's a look at the most common keys a locksmith will be able to duplicate.
Try bolt cutters.
This will not work on most master locks, as they are made of case hardened steel.
Bump keys are specially cut keys that can bypass the security mechanisms built into traditional pin and tumbler locks. Bump keys are also referred to as “999 keys” because all of their ridges are cut to the maximum depth (999) in a key-making machine.
A locksmith can help you obtain a new master car key for your vehicle. Most locksmiths are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The cost for obtaining a new master key from a locksmith varies according to region and the locksmith's individual pricing. Several online stores sell master keys that you can order.
If a building has a total of 500 doors, owners will need locks, keys and likely Master keys, for all of them. Based on national averages, a traditional small format interchangeable core system typically costs $35 for every lock, $3 for each key and $3 for each Master key.
Turns out, any Master Lock can easily be broken into with just a small hammer. As this video illustrates, all you need to do is tap the side of a Master Lock with a hammer to get it to open, no key, no combination required.
You may obtain the key code for a vehicle by providing the VIN to the vehicle manufacturer or vehicle dealer and request the key code. Note that this is useful only if the locks have never been changed to another key code. There are a number of "Code Brokers" who offer a service for getting the key code from the VIN.
To make it easy to find the most used keys on your key ring: Color Code Key Head: Paint both sides of the head of the key with brightly colored nail polish. Use a different color for each key, or just mark the most used key.
The HY-KO Y11 Blank Yale Lock Key is a nickel-plated brass, precision-milled replacement key. The key is designed for use with compatible Yale locks and padlocks.
What Does a Restricted Key Look Like? A restricted key can take different shapes and forms depending on the level of restriction. Most of these are only able to be copied by the lock manufacturer. These keys usually require some level of ID card identification in order to be copied.
Can I make a duplicate key without the original? It's possible to have a duplicate key made without the original. If you don't have the original key or it has been too worn down over time, you'll need to see a professional locksmith who can use a code cutter to identify the groove depths of your lock's key code.