You've probably seen a key before with the unambiguous words “DO NOT COPY” stamped on the key head – this is not your key telling you to be more original, but rather an indicator that the key is restricted.
First, what are restricted keys? Restricted key blanks are tightly controlled by the manufacturer. They are not available on the open market, making it impossible to take a key to an establishment that makes copies of keys because those establishments will not have the key blank needed to make the copy.
A restricted key is a key that cannot be duplicated unless authorized by the appropriate person. Detail Locksmiths takes the responsibility to keep a record of all restricted keys cut for any system.
These keys differ from restricted keys as they can be copied freely at any time and require no prior authority or permission. Keys can easily be duplicated in a matter of minutes, perfect if you've lost your keys and quickly need access to a property.
Unrestricted keyways are available to the locksmithing community; whereas, restricted keyways must be purchased from an authorized dealer. Proprietary systems take it a step further and are available only for one specific customer – no one else will ever be able to purchase a key blank for that system.
Transponder Keys
They use microchips that transmit a low-level RFID signal from the key to the receiver. If the receiver recognises the serial number, the door is unlocked. If it doesn't, it doesn't disengage. Since these keys are specifically designed with unique serial numbers, it is almost impossible to copy them.
Can you tell if a key has been copied? Copied keys will have a extra line on the outside, but this can only be seen with a magnifying glass.
The only exception in which the Home Depot does not copy keys is when the key has a “do not duplicate” sign. The Home Depot works with major key brands like Schlage, Yale, MiLock, and Kwikset. If keys do not belong to these brands, a suitable blank may still be used.
First, if you want to get a restricted key copied, then you need to get permission from the owner before the key can be copied. This permission needs to be given with specific documentation that specifies that you can have copies. Then, you will need to take this permission to the original locksmith.
There are many types of keyways, but most homes have locks with one of two of the most common keyways – KW1 and SC1. The SC stands for “Schlage,” and the KW stands for “Kwikset” – two common lock manufacturers. Stone Harbor door locks are available with both of these keyways.
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.
MyKeys Organizer tells you in seconds what the key is for. This unique app catalogues and recognizes all your keys.
Reasons a Copied Key Won't Work
The first thing that may come to mind is that the locksmith who copied the key didn't copy it right. Most locksmiths use special machines to copy keys, but if the key-copying machine has not been calibrated or cleaned in a long time, it may be out of sync.
Does Walmart Copy Do Not Duplicate Keys. MinuteKey can't copy "Do Not Duplicate" or restricted keys. They want to prevent people from having unauthorized access to these types of places. An example of this would be a key to a mailbox, filing cabinet, or safe deposit box at the bank.
What has many keys but can't open a single lock? The answer is: Piano. If you like this, do feel free to share on social media and tag @PepUpTheDay if you want us to see it.
You may think that "do not duplicate" keys can't be duplicated, but any locksmith can do it with access to the right tools. Unauthorized key duplication is the single most violated security policy in businesses and homes.
You probably wondered if it is illegal to duplicate the key. The truth is there's no law regarding “do not duplicate” keys. The engraved message found on many business keys is not legally binding – it's just a recommendation.
Yes, you can take most keys and get them copied at Home Depot as long as someone there knows how to operate the key machine. The key machine is located in the Hardware section of the store and the keys cost about $1.50 each and it only takes a few minutes.
The work of a locksmith isn't just to unlock, replace, or change keys and locks. Sometimes they can also identity copied keys by just looking at them. The main reason why it's hard to tell if a key has been replicated is that, when a key has been copied, it leaves no mark, or trace of being copied.
Despite their high-tech nature, there's no way to track your key fobs out-of-the-box… yet. Luckily for you, there are plenty of third-party options you can use to keep tabs on your key fobs until then! Key finders in particular are a great option.
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.
Select the text you want to copy and press Ctrl+C. Place your cursor where you want to paste the copied text and press Ctrl+V.
Usually, laser-cut keys are cut in the middle, not on the sides. This new cutting method gives them their unique shape. A sidewinder key is significantly more durable and secure than the old metal "blank key" we once used to have.