Key Machines, Blitz vs. Switch Blitz

[WolfSpring]

I am looking at investing in a good key machine with in the next year, if not next years tax returns. I like the extreme blitz pakage deal for $2379 it includes software and the tubular key cutter attachement plus 150 code card binder. I can also buy accessories for code cutting medeco keys. The switch blitz which is $2500 is the same except can duplicate and for the $120 more you don't get any of the software or tubular cutter that the package deal comes with. I will have two cheap duplicators, a cheap old ILCO model and the foley belsaw model and if need be can invest in a better duplicator before I get the blitz as they are relatively cheap in comparison to code cutters. I'm not sold on these models and am welcome to input of other models in a similar price range if the reasoning is good. But the blitz for some reason stands out for the price it does so much more than some of the others within that price range.

Thanks

[atlsmitty]

What is the software?

[WolfSpring]

http://www.lockpicks.com/1200cmbx-extreme-blitz.aspx

MasterKing and CodeSource

[atlsmitty]

http://www.lockpicks.com/1200cmbx-extreme-blitz.aspx

MasterKing and CodeSource

Your better off with the package deal in my opinion. software is expensive and needed

[WolfSpring]

I figured as much, I'm just wondering whats the ratio of keys made by code vs duplication, I imagine that's all about what line of work and your area you are in exactly and a simple $500 or less machine can do your duplication and even with a code cutter you can use a depth gauge to determine the code and make a better key if the original is worn out I'd think.

Thanks for the input.

[atlsmitty]

I figured as much, I'm just wondering whats the ratio of keys made by code vs duplication, I imagine that's all about what line of work and your area you are in exactly and a simple $500 or less machine can do your duplication and even with a code cutter you can use a depth gauge to determine the code and make a better key if the original is worn out I'd think.

Thanks for the input.

Well honestly is not about what weather your gonna be cutting more by code or from duplication. Its about have all the equipment necessary to do your job. Some times you might get flooded with automotive work and all your cutting will be by code. Other times you'll be doing a lot of installation jobs or re-keys on business where you want the speed of simple duplicating(a business could want a boat of copy's). What matters is that your not turning down work when your typical jobs become scarce which is what would happen if you only have equipment for you common jobs. Get the blitz package deal, and get a top of the line duplicator as one of your next purchases.

[atlsmitty]

Yea, i meant to say "boat load" of copys

[WolfSpring]

I got a while yet, still getting the basics down, got 6 years in the Army left, gonna try and get some apprentiship time in and some basic key copying and residential installs, maybe get into lock out just to get a feel for what I will want to do when I retire from the Army, but it is definatly going to be one of my first major purchases. I'm almost certified, not that that means anything, but if I move to a state that requires it it's out of the way already and it shows that I have at least taken the time and money to aquire some knowledge, but experience and up to date knowledge is my serious lacking point right now.

[corey2444]

I would rather save up for the 3D pro. Saw a demo in Texas from Keypro's van. Impressive machine. Just hope they stick around long enough to offer support 10 years from now.

[corey2444]

Oh, forgot.

http://americankeysupply.com/index.php? ... cts_id=428