Reputable Place to Get Duplicate Keys Made?
 

I have some extra NOS key blanks for my Edsel and was wondering if anyone has a place they've been to or recommend to get high quality duplicate keys made? It can either be local (Los Angeles) or national. I just don't trust the automatic machine at the local Home Depot or Lowes. Who knows the last time it was calibrated.

Re: Reputable Place to Get Duplicate Keys Made?
 

find a locksmith or old time hardware store

Re: Reputable Place to Get Duplicate Keys Made?
 

Where are you located, Los Angeles County is big? I use ASAP Lock & Key in Culver City, (310) 641-2839. They are a small locksmith located in a parking lot but their equipment seems up to date. Worth stopping if you are close but probably not worth a drive from the other end of the county. There must be a real locksmith close to you (wherever that is). The machines can get worn out and need to be replaced but I have never heard of one being "calibrated". They are just duplicating the profile of the key you provide them unless you are looking for someone to cut a key to the code you provide and then the word calibrated might make sense.

Charlie Stephens

Re: Reputable Place to Get Duplicate Keys Made?
 

Thanks for the info. Yes, I just need a key cut and don't need it done from a code. I guess I'm just a little paranoid. I've had a house key cut once at the Home Depot and it ended up being really rough to use. My area of travel would be the West Covina/La Puente/Whittier/City of Industry vicinities. Although if it was worth it, I'd find some excuse to drive to Culver City or any other city of equal distance. (I always seem to find myself in Burbank)

Re: Reputable Place to Get Duplicate Keys Made?
 

Go to an older hardware store. They usually have the older machines that can duplicate a key. Get the old timer to do it.

Re: Reputable Place to Get Duplicate Keys Made?
 

Had my '54's keys duplicated at Ace Hardware and they work perfect.

Re: Reputable Place to Get Duplicate Keys Made?
 

Thanks guys. I think there's an old Merrits Ace Hardware near here. I'll have to check it out.

Re: Reputable Place to Get Duplicate Keys Made?
 

Too bad your not closer I have one of the old machines.