https://patton-mclamb.mdwrite.net/car-key-cut-10-things-id-like-to-have-learned-earlier Car Keys Cutting The process of cutting car keys is designed to give car owners an additional key in the event that the original has been damaged or lost. It requires specialized equipment and a variety of key types. When choosing a company to cut your car keys, it's important to be informed about the different types of keys, cutting methods and prices. Key Blanks The first step to cutting car keys is choosing the correct blank. Key blanks are available cut from scratch or cut in advance. Pre-cut keys are generally priced higher because they can be used right away. They are more precise however, since locksmiths have already traced your existing key onto the blank. No matter what kind of key blank used, a locksmith will still need to cut notches and grooves into it to match up with different pins and wards inside locks. The different shapes of notches and grooves are made using a variety of methods, including disk-type key cutters, pinning machines or even a file. Locksmiths can also employ a rotary cut instead of pining or warding machines to create faster and more precise cuts. The blank is then tested to make sure that all bits fit perfectly. This process is referred to as "biting" the blank of the key. The bow and shoulders of the key are designed to determine if the key is able to be used with a lock and if it is the right size. The bow's shape is often made to be engraved to make it easier to locate keys that can be duplicated. Most residential key blanks consist of cylinder keys that have notches and grooves to accommodate various pin chambers. The most common is the Yale pin tumbler cylinder, which was developed more than 150 years ago to provide more security than other locks of the time, and required the use of a much smaller key. Cylindrical keys are now utilized in almost all made locks, including high quality padlocks and office supply locks. They also work with door