Whether you are setting up a key counter or just curious how your copy gets made, it helps to know the three broad classes of key cutting machine.
Manual duplicators
A manual machine traces your original with a guide while a cutting wheel shapes the blank. The operator controls the feed by hand. Manuals are affordable, reliable and ideal for standard edge-cut house and office keys.
Semi-automatic machines
Semi-automatic cutters clamp both keys and power the carriage, so the operator mainly loads, aligns and starts the cut. They speed up volume work and improve consistency on common keyways.
Automatic and code machines
Automatic machines can cut by code — entering the key’s bitting instead of tracing an original — and handle laser/dimple and automotive keys. They are the choice for high-security profiles and for cutting a key when no original exists.
Consumables matter
Cutting wheels, deburring brushes, jaws and alignment all affect quality. A sharp, correctly matched cutter is the difference between a smooth key and one that snags.
Need a key cut or matched in the GTA? Keys R Here stocks the full line of key blanks, machines and cutters — real stock, ships today. Search by your key code at keysrhere.com/shop or call (365) 362-5870.