key machine

[Legion303]

These two machines go for around $1700 which is the reason why I don't have one myself.

At that price I'd be looking around for a used HPC 1200 Blitz. Disclaimer: I'm not a locksmith, I just think the Blitz is sexy.

-steve

[ElAbogado]

If you are looking for a machine to duplicate keys check out the Ilco 045 manual. A real workhorse for the money. 4 way jaws will hold virtually any domestic or auto key. Had one for about 15 years (yeah, still purrs like a kitten!) and have not found a key it can't hold. Plus you can buy a side milling slotter, flip the tracer around and cut safe deposit and flat steel keys. About 700-800 dollars.

I use an Ilco 045 for a lot of keys, but don't like the cast jaws. The Bravo series and many Chinese machines have milled jaws and do a much better job of holding those difficult double sided foreign keys. Other than that, I agree, it's a great machine.

El Abogado

[Eyes_Only]

Even though I've never used one I kinda like the 045 type machines. I prefer it way more then any of the cutters in the HPC Speedex line-up. Their spacing adjustment provisions turned me off from them.

I would have gotten a 045 a long time ago but the size of it is just too big for my needs, and if I was gonna get something that size I would just get the Bravo III cos I like their jaws.

[npdaniels]

This thread has some of North Americas best locksmith advise, each machine has its own pros and cons, with allot of personal preference. If you purchase a good American built machine, it should serve you for a lifetime. I would also advise stay away from any imported brands.

As stated before don't chintz out on your key machine, you will be better off biting the bullet first off and once you have a couple commercial accounts you will quickly pay off your machine and begin turning a profit. I bought a code machine and a duplicator all in one shot, within the first few weeks I had the two machines pay for themselves and some.

HPC and a Framon II is what I personally use.

[WOT]

They cost a lot to ship. Try to find one in reasonable driving distance if you can.

[beachbumoki]

Thanks guys for all the info it is a big help i did not even know about the framon machine. i think ill go with the switch blitz or the framon.

[bobhdus]

So between the Framon II and the HPC 1200, which do all you prefer. I have a FB model 200 and the duplicating is fine but cutting by code sucks. I am looking at a used HPC 1200 with the usual extras v.s. a new Framon II. Both costing the same, which is the better code cutter? I only need this for cutting codes. Let me know.Thanks all!

[beachbumoki]

Thanks to the feedback I went with the HPC Blitz (not the switch blitz because I found a ilco 040 automatic for $220 like new ) I don’t plan on replacing it at all. Don’t have any complaints. Thanks again for the help guys!!!

[bobhdus]

I looked at the HPC Blitz also which is a really nice machine but chose to go with the Framon 2. It's an awesome machine and it truly does cut to .0005" I found a dealer that sells them at half the price as everyone else ($1850). You also get the code software free which is a necessity as well when using Code machines. Another thing about the software is unlike the HPC software, I have unlimited number of computers I can install it on within my own business. With HPC CodeSource you only get 5 which is tough when you have a lot of computer problems and need to reinstall it. Thanks!

[keysman]

I looked at the HPC Blitz also which is a really nice machine but chose to go with the Framon 2. It's an awesome machine and it truly does cut to .0005" I found a dealer that sells them at half the price as everyone else ($1850). You also get the code software free which is a necessity as well when using Code machines. Another thing about the software is unlike the HPC software, I have unlimited number of computers I can install it on within my own business. With HPC CodeSource you only get 5 which is tough when you have a lot of computer problems and need to reinstall it. Thanks!

You won't be unhappy with the Framon 2.. There are several reasons I love mine. Yes , there is a learning curve to using it properly, but you don't have to worry about somebody walking up and making keys . I worked in a location that other employees ( non locksmiths) had access to my shop.
Customer service from Framon is second to none. The owner ( Phil Framon) often answers the phone himself.
The machine is built like a Tank.There are numerous stories of a Framon falling off the roof or bumper of a service truck, and being put back in service with no adjustments or repairs. Enjoy your machine it only gets easier/ better with use.

[cledry]

Key duplicators the best I have for duplicating large numbers of keys day in day out are the Bravo II and the Rytan RY200. We also use an old Sagar machine that is very fast. However we still have a good old Ilco manual machine for doing some work. I do not recommend the HPC Blitz, terrible jaws. Later you can add a machine for fat steel and bit keys.

Code work we use HPC 1200, we have three in use all the time and we also have an Ilco universal code cutter just for cutting Best keys.

[cledry]

Just bought a Bravo III to go along with the Bravo II and I am liking the updates. The quick change jaw is wonderful, as is the copy dog which now has a replaceable tip. It takes up a lot of bench space though.

Key duplicators the best I have for duplicating large numbers of keys day in day out are the Bravo II and the Rytan RY200. We also use an old Sagar machine that is very fast. However we still have a good old Ilco manual machine for doing some work. I do not recommend the HPC Blitz, terrible jaws. Later you can add a machine for fat steel and bit keys.

Code work we use HPC 1200, we have three in use all the time and we also have an Ilco universal code cutter just for cutting Best keys.

[Capt_Tom]

For my portable, I have HPC's mini speedex it's a great little machine. You can also get a code adapter for it.

[bjornnrojb]

Has anybody got the mini speedex with a codecutting conversion kit? If that thing can cut normal sized keys I might ditch my hpc 1200 for this setup. Less than $700 for new hardware and fits better in my truck.

[cledry]

Has anybody got the mini speedex with a codecutting conversion kit? If that thing can cut normal sized keys I might ditch my hpc 1200 for this setup. Less than $700 for new hardware and fits better in my truck.

It only does pin tumbler cylinder keys. It is a take on an old machine I had, it works but is limited. I've had two Speedex machines and thought they were both a bit junky. Very light duty poorly built IMO. I suppose if you were only used to using a Belsaw machine they might feel OK but once you use a heavier machine like a Silca, Framon, Borkey, or even a Rytan you will see the difference. The 1200 though is a good machine if you treat it kindly. They take up almost no room in a truck. Mine is mounted almost vertically.