key decoder

[rakemaster]

What I was suggesting was that you NOT try to make one to exact measurements. Instead, just cut the triangular cutout in a piece of metal and then use a key (cut to each depth) to calibrate it by marking where each depth stops in the triangle. This will be much more accurate than trying to cut it to exact size from the start, and a lot easier to make.

[Eyes_Only]

I suppose you can make one and get it done accurately to a certain point if you use a digital caliper and measure each step for each cut to make sure it's cut properly. But I'm with Schuyler on this one, it sounds like an interesting idea. Give it a go. We're not professional locksmiths so if it's off by a couple thousands of an inch it probably won't be a huge deal.

[Jaakko]

What I was suggesting was that you NOT try to make one to exact measurements. Instead, just cut the triangular cutout in a piece of metal and then use a key (cut to each depth) to calibrate it by marking where each depth stops in the triangle. This will be much more accurate than trying to cut it to exact size from the start, and a lot easier to make.

Ditto on this one. It is far easier and provides enough accuracy without using a caliper or micrometer when making it All it needs is really good cut keys

[Schuyler]

Yeah, I'm with rakemaster as well.

But, make it a right triangle, so you can run the key along a flat side without having to worry too much about the key wiggling out of position.

[Shrub]

They are good tools to have if you swap pins around a lot (or levers in our case) they can be made easily at home and to a decent accuracy,

Go to the petrol stations etc and pick up those free plastic cards for topping your phone up or store cards etc, useing a set of needle files a set can be made in an afternoon with no trouble and they are hard wearing enough to make the effort worth while,

[Rodfather23]

I'm going to make me one hopefully next weekend with a card as shrub suggested.



thx for all the replies