Key Cutter

[unlisted]

Looking at purchasing a key cutter, but not too sure what to buy... It would have to be able to cut keys by code... I don't want to spend too much, since I almost never need to cut keys.

Looking at a Pak A Punch key cutter, or Exacta key cutters, I would prefer to get Pak A Punch, since I could purchase attachments to cut other types of keys in the same machine. Not too sure about either of them, does anyone have any info, and or experience with them?

Thanks for any info, and if this belongs in the advanced forum, sorry in advance.

[What]

i think there are quite a few topics in the Locksmith Business Information section

[unlisted]

Been through there, but cannot find any info on these 2 types...

If you can find it, please point me in the right direction...

[unlisted]

Decided to answer my own question... after the search function finally returned something...

viewtopic.php?t=12002&highlight=pak+punch



Now, does anyone know the rough pricing on a hpc punch machine?

[Shrub]

If rarely cutting keys why spend the extra? just use some depth and space keys on a normal machine

The rrp of the HPC Punch machine will be readily available on the interweb but if your buying one you need to do the shopping around to get the best price, you may get one cheaper than we quote and you may not get one as cheap as we quote.

The Model number is #1200PCH, it is called The Punch Machine (code punch machine) and the first price i found online is $1,550.00

The manual can be downloaded HERE
The parts breakdown can be found HERE

[unlisted]

After looking at the basics of the various key cutters last night, I think my money would be well spent on the HPC Punch, I don't cut keys often, but I do cut alot of different types.

Theres also the possibility that I may soon start cutting keys more often, normally I send my clients to a local shop.

Thanks for the price info, I could not locate it online last night.

[maxxed]

Unlisted what type of keys are you cutting most often? If you are doing auto or other small wafer locks then the punch type is OK. If you plan on cutting keys by code for commercial/ residential locks then look at a motorized type of code cutter, the thicker keys can be very hard on punch type cutters.
You may want to check out Framon and ITL .

[dmux]

ok question, what should i use to make bump keys, just a file?

[maxxed]

ok question, what should i use to make bump keys, just a file?

You can certainly make bump keys with a file but a code cutter is definitly the best.

[unlisted]

Unlisted what type of keys are you cutting most often? If you are doing auto or other small wafer locks then the punch type is OK. If you plan on cutting keys by code for commercial/ residential locks then look at a motorized type of code cutter, the thicker keys can be very hard on punch type cutters.
You may want to check out Framon and ITL .

Will be doing alot of different commerical locksets, lots of different types of keys.

But, I do need a reasonably priced machine. (protable also)

[unlisted]

sorry, Portable also..

[maxxed]

The way most lockies get started is, as Shrub posted, basic duplicator and depth keys. Keep an eye open for deals at yard sales and auctions, I have found several key machines this way.
I purchased a rechargeable AC/DC powered key duplicator from associated lock cost less than $500.00 CDN. It would be a good starter machine.

[keysman]

If you are just starting out it might be best to go with a duplicator and space and depth keys.. the duplicator will pay for it self on no time and you only need to buy S&D keys for the manufactures you are going to be working with.

But if you decide on a code machine … you have lots of choices ….

Dedicated machine- Punch commonly called the “blue punch” only makes keys for 1 manufacturer .. schlage , corbin, kwickset + some others .. absolutely the fastest for the keys it is designed for.


Semi- dedicated machine- Curtis clipper , Exacta, and a few others
Good machines … the parts for extra manufacturers can get expensive real quickly, but if you only do a few different manufacturers ….

Code machine Framon , HPC 1200 , HPC punch Initially cost more .. very versatile most machines can do house ,automotive and flat keys with no modifications.
My personal favorite is the Framon II, but that is just me.

Computerized Code machine- Nice if you have a large volume of work, expect to pay 2-3x the price of a ‘normal code machine”
There are few things I can guarantee in this world .. but I can guarantee that a computerized machine will fail at some point.. and then where will you be?

[unlisted]

Prices do not concern me too much, I allready have a few wholesale accts...

[lowen]

For a low cost, the Foley-Belsaw 200 looks pretty good, if a little cheap. It can cut by code using a micrometer for depth; they sell a spacing micrometer attachment.

I have one of these; it works ok, but I wouldn't use it for high volume. But for my own personal stuff and my employer's stuff it does get the job done, if a little slower than the higher dollar machines.

A 12 volt motor is also available.