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The Pro 8 In 1 Key Gauge is one of those tools that professional locksmiths simply need to have at their locksmith shop. It’s more like a Swiss army knife as this key gauge has three different spots to remove C clips, a detent pusher and it helps locksmiths decode the 8 more popular types of keys: Kwikset, Schlage, Weiser, Yale, Arrow, Weslock, Master, and SFIC A2 in the USA. If you are new to the business or you haven’t used a key gauge before, let’s see how this great Pro 8 In 1 Key Gauge works.Anytime you have a...

Toyota Split Wafer Ignitions are known to fail. Follow this step by step technique if you need to take them apart to repair or rekey. You will find it handy whether you are using a brand new OEM ignition, an aftermarket ignition or even one that is used inside the vehicle. There are two main applications you will need to do this to: on the one hand, if the split wafers are failing (which is a common problem) or, on the other hand, if you get aftermarket ignition. In the first case, you will need to take this ignition apart...

The ASP Honda High Security Pinning Kit (A-19-108) provides locksmiths with everything they need to rebuild the tumblers inside of a Honda lock. Yes, this pinning kit makes it trouble-free to fix ignition, door or trunk locks from almost any Honda vehicle you receive at your locksmith shop. It is well known amongst professional locksmiths that Honda has had a notorious problem with wafers wearing out and causing problems with the keys not turning the lock. The most cost-effective solution for your customers most of the time is to replace the wafers inside. The ASP Honda High Security Pinning kit...

The Silca Speed 045 is a great tool for locksmiths that regularly cut automotive, residential and commercial keys. Designed as a replacement of the Ilco 045HD, professional locksmiths will find it similar to the Bravo 3 machine but with interesting additional features that are highly appreciated by users. The Silca Speed 045 is the model of choice for the shops or stores of professional locksmiths because of its modern, open style, safety details and operational features. And the mounting bracket included makes it ideal for mobile use as well. Silca Speed 045: Outstanding Features Let’s discuss some of the most...

In October 2018, Ilco announced that they would start doing a rolling change over from GTI glass chips to a ceramic GTI chip. Ilco says "The new physical shape will not affect performance or vehicle applications that are covered. Ilco will continue to refer to this transponder as the GTI."   Ceramic chips are more reliable and stable than glass chips and we have seen a trend by all transponder manufactures moving toward ceramic chips, I think it's good for them and for the end user!   So next time you get a Ilco GTI chip and it's not the...

Gator VATS Bypass Module: How To Video | Solve Ignition Lock Failure on GM Vehicles The Vats Bypass Module (#VBM054) is one of those tools that automotive locksmiths like the most. It’s a great problem solver for automotive locksmiths especially when they need to assist a customer with an older GM vehicle with the VATS System. Professional locksmiths know that the Vats Bypass Module #VBM054 is designed for those times when the General Motors ignition lock (with the VATS system installed in it) fails. One of the most common issues with VATS ignitions as they age is that either the...

 Manual vs. Electric Lock Picking  As a locksmith, you might have a hard time deciding between keeping things traditional with manual lock picks and upgrading to electric picks. CLK Supplies understands your conundrum, and we want to share more information about both types of lock picks in order to help you make a better decision for your needs and customers.  Manual Mode Only your hands and common lock picking tools are used during manual picking. Examples of such common tools include:   Rakes, which mimic the bitting on a real key Hooks, which are often using for single pin picking...

Creating a Locksmith Business Plan   So you’ve decided to become a locksmith. Great! CLK Supplies welcomes you to the industry, and we would be happy to supply you with your first locksmith tools. Before doing anything else, we recommend that you sit down and develop a well-thought-out business plan that is sure to attract customers, boost your profits and bring out the best in your business. Here are a few tips to get you started.  Your Executive Summary The executive summary of your business plan is where you define your reason for starting your business and what you want to...

Your Locksmith Business: Mobile vs. Brick and Mortar  The advancement of the locksmith industry has given locksmiths the option of opening brick-and-mortar businesses or mobile operations. Both come with their own unique advantages and costs, and CLK Supplies is here to describe both business types with the intention of helping you decide between them. Whatever your decision, we are here to supply you and your business with your next set of locksmith tools. Going Mobile Speaking from a sheer financial point of view, mobile is most definitely the way to go. Mobile business costs range anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000,...

Things You Should Do Before Drilling a Lock For those locks that are impervious to your skills with lock picks, you may have no choice but to turn to a customer and inform him or her that you have to drill into the lock. Doing so results in a complete loss of the lock, much to the customer’s horror. To keep from being the bearer of bad news, and to save your customer the cost of a new lock, CLK Supplies is here to share a few steps to complete before resorting to brass and drilling tacks. Know the Type...