Resources
Field notes for locksmith businesses
Practical guides on key management, field operations, and running a better shop. Written by locksmiths, for locksmiths.
Master Key System Software: What Locksmiths Need to Know
Managing a master key system manually is error-prone. Dedicated master key system software tracks every key, cylinder, and pin specification in a hierarchy — here’s how it works and what to look for.
What Is a Pinning Specification? A Locksmith’s Guide
A pinning specification is the complete record of pin heights needed to make a lock operate on a specific key cut. Learn what it includes, why it matters, and how to manage specs digitally.
Door Hardware Assessment for Commercial Rekeying Projects
A proper hardware assessment before a commercial rekey prevents surprises, protects your margin, and gives clients documentation they can reference for years. Here is what to look for and how to record it.
How to Build a Master Key System from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide
Building a master key system requires a site survey, hierarchy design, bitting selection, cross-keying checks, and careful documentation before a single cylinder is pinned. Here's the complete process.
Key Control Policy for Commercial Buildings: What Locksmiths Need to Know
A key control policy defines how physical keys are issued, tracked, and managed across a commercial property. Locksmiths who can help clients build and maintain these policies win long-term commercial accounts.
High-Security Locks: What Locksmiths Need to Know About Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, and Abloy
High-security locks offer pick resistance, drill resistance, and key control that standard cylinders cannot match. Here is what differentiates the leading brands and how locksmiths should position high-security upgrades.
What Is a Keyway? A Locksmith's Guide to Keyway Profiles and Security
A keyway is the shaped channel in a lock cylinder that controls which key blanks can enter. The keyway profile determines warding, bitting constraints, and master key compatibility — here's what every locksmith needs to know.
Small Format Interchangeable Core (SFIC): A Complete Guide for Locksmiths
SFIC cylinders let building owners swap cores without tools, making rekeying faster and less disruptive. Here is how SFIC works, when to specify it, and what locksmiths need to manage SFIC accounts professionally.