Key Cutting
0161 839 0201
Your Manchester Key Cutting Service
We have an extensive range of replacement keys for every type of locks from safes to windows – call us today!
THE Key Cutting Service for Central Manchester
We use quality key cutting machinery to duplicate keys, including computerised key machines for high security keys, master keys and keys cut to code.
There are many types of keys including:
- Yale type key -with V or sawtooth cuts; used on cylinder locks
- Lever key – often called a Chubb key; with stepped cuts; used on mortice locks on wooden doors
- Safe key – either stepped cuts on one or both sides of the key
- Dimple key – drillings into the key blade; used on higher security cylinders and padlocks
- Radial Pin Tumbler key – a tubular key with milled end cuts; used on lockers, some cheap safes etc.
- Flat steel key – a flat piece of metal with steps cut into it. Used on office cabinets and some up and over garage doors.
CTML can cut all of these types of keys – and quickly and conveniently at our premises on Mirabel Street
We source key blanks from most blank manufacturers and use manufacturers’ genuine key blanks where absolute accuracy is essential.
We can not only duplicate keys we can also cut many replacement keys to number.
Keys to number are cut on computerised machines using manufacturers’ spacing and depths and will match the original key. If no code is available don’t worry – using traditional locksmiths’ skills we can even cut keys by hand to a lock where the keys have gone missing.
Whatever keys you need duplicating contact us first for all your requirements.
KEY CUTTING FAQs
Why use CTML for replacement keys?
The locksmiths at CTML are skilled in the art of producing replacement keys. Whether the key is a simple machine duplication, or a high quality key requiring hand finishing, we can supply a key to suit your needs.
What is a replacement key?
A replacement key is one that has been supplied later and not with the lock.
Replacement keys come in a wide variety of types and can be for any sort of lock.
What is a key blank?
A key blank is the same size and shape as a key but has no cuts on it. The key machine is set up to replicate the key cuts into the blank. If done properly the lock will recognise the key as valid and allow the key to turn. There are many manufacturers of key blanks and the most common include Silca, JMA and Keyline. Manufacturers may also supply their own keys as blanks
What is a key to number?
Also called a key to code, a key to number is one cut by a machine to a key code supplied by the manufacturer. This is a good way to cut a key as the machine uses the manufacturers’ original dimensions so the keys are very accurate. Very often where there is a number it is stamped on the front of the lock and this is common practice on office furniture, such as desks and cabinets. Many garage door locks also have number on the handle. Sometimes we use the same procedure to cut a replacement key where the original is worn – by working out what the cuts should be we enter the cuts in to the software programme and produce a key that is as good as the original.
How do you cut a key by hand?
This is a traditional locksmiths’ skill and involves first taking a key blank that fits the lock properly. The lock is then stripped down and the key blank is filed by hand so that each key step allows the key to turn smoothly and without binding. The process is pretty much the same whichever type of lock is involved. It’s not something one can learn overnight and it takes many years of practice to get to the level of skill the CTML locksmiths have.
What is a restricted key?
It’s a bit of minefield this one! In our opinion there are 2 levels of keys – patented keys and non-patented keys. Patented keys are restricted while the patent is in force and non-patented keys are not restricted!
Some manufacturers try to claim that their keys are restricted because they either don’t supply the key blanks, or they only supply blanks to authorised centres. This can be very misleading – we heard of one manufacturer who was actively telling customers that their keys were restricted because they didn’t supply blanks to anyone.
Unfortunately for their customers they didn’t mention that the blank manufacturers produced a copy blank for their section that was freely available in every locksmiths’ shop and heel bar! Patented key systems offer key restriction, but only for the life of the patent; i.e 20 years from date of application Which means not all patented systems still have protection against unauthorised key duplication.
If you want to know whether your keys are restricted just give us a call and in the unlikely event that we don’t know we can find out for you!
CONTACT US
CTML SERVICES
MANCHESTER KEY CUTTING
OPENING TIMES
Monday: 9am–1pm, 2–5pm
Tuesday: 9am–1pm, 2–5pm
Wednesday: 9am–1pm, 2–5pm
Thursday: 9am–1pm, 2–5pm
Friday: 9am–1pm, 2–5pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
