The term lock impressioning is something you may hear when talking to locksmiths about replacing your lock keys. You may wonder what it is and if it is something you need to defend against in your home. Here we explain the key points of lock impressioning and how it affects you and your home.
What Is Lock Impressioning?
Lock impressioning is the act of creating a new key for a lock without access to the original through steps that take a locksmith years to master.
In short, a locksmith will prepare a blank key that he/she determines is most appropriate for the lock. They will then insert the key into the lock multiple times, examining the key after each and binding components. The markings left on the key tell the locksmith what shape the key is meant to be in that area.
With the help of files, a microscope and, occasionally, a UV light, the locksmith can recreate the key you need to open that lock.
Copy Impressioning
It is easy to confuse lock impressioning with copy impressioning. While the results are the same, you end up with a new key for your lock, the methods are completely different.
Copy impressioning requires access to a key that works with the lock. To create a copy impression you press the key into something soft like clay or silicone, effectively making a mold of that key. The mold then becomes the basis of making a completely new key for that lock.
What Do We Use Lock Impressioning for Today?
Lock impressioning is an important locksmithing service that sees usage around the world in three different scenarios.
Scenario one is what you expect. It’s a locksmith helping an owner regain access to something that no longer has a key. This could be a door, a trunk, or even a drawer. The lock impressioning techniques allow a locksmith to make a new key without harming the original lock.
Scenario two has a level of sophistication in the criminal world. Lock impressioning sees some use in high-profile crime. High profile because this is not a technique you can master quickly. There will be criminals who have taken the time to master the skill, but the common burglar will defer to lockpicks, lock bumping, and other easier methods.
Scenario three is locksmithing competitions. This is where locksmiths pit their locksmithing skills against other locksmiths in a show of finesse and accuracy. Lock impressioning is a skill that often comes into play during one of these competitions worldwide.
Can Anyone Use This Technique?
Anyone can learn any skill if they are willing to put forth the time and effort. However, lock impressioning is not a skill one can learn overnight. It is a skill you expect of a master of the trade, not an amateur.
So, while anyone can learn the skill, you do not need to worry about the local thieves learning to copy everyone’s house keys. If this is a concern in your area, smart locks lack the traditional keyholes therefore they are an excellent option to avoid anyone using this technique on your lock.
Would Any Of Your Locks Benefit From This Skill?
If you have a lock that you want to regain access to without damaging the original locking mechanism, and if you live in the Miami area, turn to Quickly Locksmith.
Quickly Locksmith services in Miami are your local top brand specialists. Our services aim to fix your problem quickly and get you smiling again. We are quick, professional, affordable, trustworthy and, best of all, work throughout Miami 24/7. No matter your locking problem, we can be there quickly to help.
To get in touch you can call us at (305) 984-9922 or send us a message through our contact us page and a member of our team will be happy to talk to you.
