Door and lock tips

Schlage
(/ʃleɪɡ/ SHLAYG)
about master keying, top pins, and interchangeable cores, you are referring to nomenclature:
The Schlage Lock Company
Schlage is one of the most popular and recognized brands of consumer and commercial locks in the United States.
Here is the technical summary of what Schlage is in the context of our discussion:
1. A Manufacturer of Key & Cylinder Systems
Schlage is an American security hardware manufacturer. While they make all types of door hardware, including deadbolts and electronic locks, for professional locksmiths, the name Schlage defines the standard specifications of their physical key and cylinder lines.
2. The Standard of Lockservicing (Schlage Pinning)
In the locksmith industry, "Schlage pinning" refers to servicing locks that use standard-diameter .115" bottom pins, springs, and top driver pins. While other manufacturers (like GMS or KSP) make cylinders that fit into Schlage hardware, they must be "combinated" using the Schlage increment system and pin sizes. This uniform pinning logic allows locksmiths to use one standard rekeying kit for most Schlage commercial and residential hardware.
3. Defining Technical Specifications
When we discussed technical specifications in image_60.png, the term "Schlage" was defining those standards:
* Chamber Height Target (.390"): The requirement that the total stack of bottom pin, master wafer, and top driver pin must measure exactly .390" to hit the uniform shear line.
* FSIC (Full Size Interchangeable Core): This is the large, detachable Schlage removable core format we just defined. GMS or other companies make aftermarket cores that are technically Schlage FSIC specification cores, but they must use Schlage pinning data.
* Everest (C123) and Primus: These are specific, patented high-security keyway and cylinder lines developed by Schlage to provide patented key control.

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 10

Door and lock tips

Technical Brief: Why Schlage Primus and Everest Sidebars Are Not Interchangeable
No, a Schlage Primus sidebar will not work in a Schlage Everest cylinder.
While both represent high-security, patented key control from Schlage, their secondary locking mechanisms (the sidebars) are fundamentally different in design, function, and interface logic. Attempting to interchange them is a critical rekeying error.
Here is the technical explanation for the bench:
1. Mechanism Logic: Single Point vs. Multiple Points
* Everest (Single Check Pin): As illustrated in Figure 1 of the accompanying reference chart, the Everest system uses a standard full-size cylinder shell but is an operational 6-pin system. Its patented security relies on a single, dynamic horizontal check pin. This check pin must be engaged at a specific, mandatory depth—0.134 inches (3.4mm)—by a simple, uniform side groove cut into the key blade. If that single requirement is met, the check pin clears, allowing the sidebar to function.
* Primus (Multiple Unique Finger Pins): As shown in Figure 2, the Primus mechanism is significantly more complex. It does not have one universal check point. Instead, it utilizes multiple, distinct finger pins or lugs within the sidebar. These fingers must be individually aligned by a specialized sidecarve pattern cut into the key blade (distinct from standard bitting, e.g., 'Primus 3' vs. 'Primus 4' codes). Each of these multiple Primus fingers must find its matching indentation depth simultaneously on the key for the sidebar to retract.
2. Physical Component Incompatibility
Beyond the logical differences, the sidebars themselves are physically different. The internal geometry of the cylinder plug, the space provided for the sidebar, and the relationship between the keyway and the side-checking components are not identical. You are trying to install a complex, multi-check locking mechanism into a plug designed only for a simple, single check point.
Conclusion:
A Primus sidebar cannot operate in an Everest cylinder because the Everest cylinder lacks the necessary internal pathways to accommodate multiple finger pins and cannot interface with or "read" the required unique Primus key codes. They are technically distinct and are not a workable substitution on the bench or in the field.

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 8

Door and lock tips

The Bench Locksmith's Guide to the Schlage Everest C123 & C145 KIK Cylinder
Hey there, Prodigy! Welcome back to Door & Lock Tips with Michael Raymond Walker. Today, we're doing a deep dive into the Schlage Everest KIK (Key-In-Knob) system, specifically looking at the C123 and C145 keyways in a master key context. This is about factory precision on the rekeying bench.
I need you to remember one core principle when working with Schlage Everest, and this is what makes it unique: It’s a 6-pin operational system, but it’s always built in a 7-pin shell. That empty seventh position at the back of the cylinder is not a mistake—it is standard, factory-required anatomy.
Anatomy and Placement
First, look at the physical setup of the cylinder plug. You have six functional vertical pin chambers that we’re going to load. They are standard diameter (.115"). While the actual shell has seven holes, we only use chambers 1 through 6 for our operational keys. The 7th chamber stack at the very back must be left empty.
If you ever see a cylinder with that back chamber populated, it is not standard and is likely not factory-correct.
The Core Key and Pin Specs
This is where the math of rekeying starts. The key, in either the C123 or C145 keyways, uses a standard 6-pin cut progression. The pinning system is a single-step system, progressng from 1 through 9. To ensure factory operation, these dimensions are non-negotiable:
Bottom Pin #1 (Length): 0.165"
Bottom Pin #2 (Length): 0.180"
Bottom Pin #3 (Length): 0.195"
Bottom Pin #4 (Length): 0.210"
Bottom Pin #5 (Length): 0.225"
Bottom Pin #6 (Length): 0.240"
Bottom Pin #7 (Length): 0.255"
Bottom Pin #8 (Length): 0.270"
Bottom Pin #9 (Length): 0.285"
You are also using standard master wafers, which progress in the same 0.015" increments, to establish the primary shear lines across your six operational chambers.
Top Pin Selection: The J-Series and L-Series Rules (IMPORTANT)
Now, this is what the reference chart you’re holding is all about. You cannot just use the standard driver pin for every chamber. The height of your bottom pins and master wafers dictates which top pin you must use.
Schlage has two series of top driver pins for Everest:
J-Series: These are your standard top driver pins. They range in length from .165" down to .210".
L-Series (Balanced): These are specifically shortened driver pins used when the combined height of your bottom pins and master wafers (the "Total Bottom Stack Height") gets too tall for the chamber. They are typically .150" down to .135" in length.
The Simple Selection Rule
Prodigy, here is how you select your top pins from the chart:
1. Calculate your Total Bottom Stack Height for that chamber: Add the size of your bottom pin + the size of any master wafers. For example, if you have a #3 Bottom Pin (.195") and a #2 Master Wafer (.180"), your Total Bottom Stack is .375" (.195" + .180").
2. Follow the Rule from your Chart: Look at the chart and find where your calculated .375" stack falls. The rule is simple: If your Total Bottom Stack Height (BP + MW) is:
.165" up to .225" -> Use a standard J-Series (.165" - .210") Top Driver.
.240" up to .285" -> YOU MUST USE an L-Series (Balanced) .150" - .135" Top Driver.
Why We Balance the Stack
If you ignore the chart and try to use a tall J-Series driver with a tall Bottom/Master stack (like that .375" stack), the chamber will be "over-stuffed." When you try to insert the key, the stack will bind, preventing the cylinder from turning, even if the cut is correct. This is called stack height imbalance.
Using the correctly shortened L-Series balanced drivers keeps the total stack height uniform across all chambers. This prevents binding, avoids spring crushing, and maintains the proper operational tension the cylinder was designed for.
The Everest Check Pin
Finally, we have the Everest check pin (the 7th pin, distinct from the main stacks). This is the patent-protected, patented key control feature. It is a secondary locking pin, typically located horizontally in the plug near the back operational chambers. This check pin MUST be interacted with by a unique, precisely cut groove on the side of the Everest key blade. It operates a sidebar mechanism independently of the six vertical pin stacks.
If the key lacks the side cut, or it's cut to the wrong specification (standard Schlage specification is typically 0.134"), the check pin won't clear the sidebar, and the cylinder simply will not rotate, providing robust protection against picking and unauthorized key duplication.
That’s the factory-precise explanation for the Prodigy, Michael. It covers the 7-pin shell, all the pin measurements, and details exactly why and when you select the J-Series versus the L-Series balanced driver pins. It aligns perfectly with the corrected factory chart.

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 11

Door and lock tips

SFIC vs LFIC: The Ultimate Core Showdown
My thoughts on the matter are clear: when comparing these two giants, BEST SFIC is an absolute beast to deal with—it is extremely hard to work with, requires a ton of specialized tools like capping blocks and presses, and demands high-level precision to pin up. On the flip side, the Yale LFIC is much simpler to work with, offering a straightforward, user-friendly pinning process that is far easier to service.
* BEST SFIC (Small Format Interchangeable Core)
* Reputation: Considered a masterclass in engineering, but notorious among locksmiths for being extremely difficult to work with and pin up.
* Core Design and Size: Features the iconic figure-eight body with compact proportions that self-contain and remove instantly using a control key.
* Pin Diameter: 0.108 inches, which is extra-thin to fit tight internal spaces.
* Key Spacing: 0.150 inches center-to-center.
* Depth Increments: 0.0125 inches per step, utilizing ultra-fine tolerances.
* Key Feature: Houses control sleeves alongside complex bottom, master, and control pin stacks that make re-pinning a tedious, high-skill task requiring specialized tooling.
* Yale LFIC (Large Format Interchangeable Core)
* Reputation: Much more user-friendly and simple to work with, using traditional components that make it straightforward to service and re-key.
* Core Design and Size: Features a larger physical profile housing a full-sized standard cylinder footprint within an interchangeable shell.
* Pin Diameter: 0.115 inches, representing the standard commercial diameter.
* Key Spacing: 0.150 inches center-to-center.
* Depth Increments: 0.023 to 0.025 inches, providing much more forgiving tolerances than SFIC.
* Key Feature: Combines the quick-change convenience of an interchangeable core with the simple, familiar serviceability of standard pin-tumbler systems.
Comparison Summary
* Difficulty Level: BEST SFIC is extremely hard and requires precision tooling and capping, whereas Yale LFIC is simple and easy to pin up.
* Pin Diameter: BEST SFIC measures 0.108 inches; Yale LFIC measures 0.115 inches.
* Depth Increment: BEST SFIC uses a fine tolerance of 0.0125 inches; Yale LFIC uses a standard tolerance of 0.023 to 0.025 inches.
* Component Size: BEST SFIC uses tiny components that are easy to misplace, while Yale LFIC uses standard, comfortable sizes to handle.
The two greatest cores on earth—choose your fighter wisely!
Subscribe to Door and Lock Tips for more fun facts.

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2 weeks ago | [YT] | 13

Door and lock tips

Planning a Driveway Build Over NC Clay
If you are putting down a gravel driveway over red clay in North Carolina, doing the prep work right is the difference between a solid road and a mud slide. Here is the exact scope of work and specifications required to build a long-lasting, stable gravel surface.
Contractor Contact Information
Harrison Construction
Phone: 910-842-6320
Address: Holden Beach Road SW, Shallotte, NC
Scope of Work and Material Specifications
A. Subgrade Excavation and Compaction
Excavate all topsoil, roots, and organic matter down to solid red clay, maintaining a depth of 6 to 8 inches below final grade. Grade the clay subgrade to a 2 percent slope from the center to ensure water drains off the sides rather than pooling under the driveway. Compact the raw clay subgrade thoroughly using a heavy roller or plate compactor before placing any materials.
B. Geotextile Fabric Layer
Lay down woven geotextile stabilization fabric directly over the compacted clay subgrade. Do not use thin landscape film or weed barrier. Overlap all seams by a minimum of 12 inches. This layer acts as a permanent structural separator to prevent aggregate from sinking into the clay and to keep mud from churning up into the stone base.
C. Compacted Base Course (ABC / Crusher Run)
Install a 4 to 6 inch layer of Aggregate Base Course (ABC or Crusher Run). This material contains a mix of crushed stone and stone dust fines that pack together into a dense, rigid foundation. Spread the aggregate evenly and compact it in 2 to 3 inch lifts using a vibratory plate compactor or heavy roller until fully consolidated.
D. Top Wearing Course (#57 Clean Stone)
Spread a final wearing layer of #57 clean angular crushed stone over the compacted ABC base. Keep this top layer thin, between 1.5 and 2 inches maximum. A thin layer locks into the base without shifting, whereas excess clean gravel remains loose and causes tires to spin or rut. Shape the final surface with a slight crown down the middle for rain runoff.
dig deeper
Key Technical Checklist for Site Inspection
Check fabric type: Ensure heavy woven geotextile fabric is on site rather than non-woven weed matting.
Check base compaction: The ABC layer must be completely hard and show no movement or rutting under vehicle weight before any top stone is spread.
Check top coat depth: Check that the clean #57 surface layer does not exceed 2 inches in depth.
Liability Disclaimer: The creator of this video assumes no responsibility for any damages resulting from viewers following video instructions. Please exercise caution and professional judgment.
Amazon Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Influencer Associate, I earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through the provided links
Transparency Notice: Please be aware that my videos may feature paid promotions or sponsorships. Affiliate links are always clearly indicated in the description.
Giveaway Information: Free Peterson Lock Pick set available to US residents. Mail a self-addressed stamped envelope for entry. No purchase or subscription required. Disclaimer: Void where prohibited.
#GravelDriveway #DrivewayPrep #NCClay #CrusherRun #GeotextileFabric #DrivewayBuild
gravel driveway, aggregate base course, crusher run, geotextile fabric, north carolina clay, driveway prep

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1 month ago | [YT] | 5

Door and lock tips

4-Shelf Commercial Magazine Display
Project Layout and Space Calculation for Magazine Rack Build
For a five-foot vertical space from counter to ceiling, four tiered shelves provides the best combination of display capacity and functionality.
Five shelves spaced twelve inches apart takes up sixty inches, running flush from counter to ceiling without leaving counter laydown space.
Dropping to four shelves spaced at twelve inches consumes forty-eight inches of height. This creates a twelve-inch gap between the top of the counter and the bottom shelf.
Mathematical Breakdown:
Total height from counter to ceiling is sixty inches.
Counter laydown gap consumes twelve inches, leaving forty-eight inches remaining.
Tier 1 consumes twelve inches, leaving thirty-six inches remaining.
Tier 2 consumes twelve inches, leaving twenty-four inches remaining.
Tier 3 consumes twelve inches, leaving twelve inches remaining.
Tier 4 consumes twelve inches, reaching the top ceiling line.
Summary:
This layout gives four continuous twelve-foot wide shelves with integrated lighting and clear retainers.
It provides a functional twelve-inch laydown gap across the entire twelve-foot counter length to store extra copies or promotional materials flat on the counter without blocking the tilted shelves.

Liability Disclaimer:
The creator of this video assumes no responsibility for any damages resulting from viewers following video instructions. Please exercise caution and professional judgment.

Amazon Affiliate Disclosure:
As an Amazon Influencer Associate, I earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through the provided links.
Transparency Notice: Please be aware that my videos may feature paid promotions or sponsorships. Affiliate links are always clearly indicated in the description.

Peterson Lock Pick Giveaway:
One free Peterson lock pick no strings attached. Just send me your name and your mailing address to doorandlocktips@gmail.com. Free Peterson lock pick giveaway for domestic US viewers. No subscription required.

#Woodworking #ShopDisplay #StoreFixtures #CustomCabinetry #WoodworkingProjects #RetailDesign

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1 month ago | [YT] | 4

Door and lock tips

How to Build a Budget-Friendly 10' x 5' Commercial Book & Magazine Wall Display
If you want the high-end look of a illuminated commercial magazine rack without the steep cost of custom tempered glass, this breakdown covers the structural design and exact measurements to hand off to your architect or contractor.
Wall Dimensions and Layout
Total Wall Footprint: 10 feet wide by 5 feet tall.
Shelf Spacing: 14 inches center-to-center vertically, giving you 4 full display tiers.
Shelf Depth: 10 inches total depth from the wall to the front retainer lip.
Tilted Back Panels
Back Panel Construction: 3/4-inch MDF panels with a wood veneer or laminate finish.
Tilt Angle: Built at a 15-degree backward slope. This lean uses gravity to hold books and magazines securely against the shelf without requiring doors or dividers.
Front Retaining System (Cost-Saving Polymeric Lip)
Front Lip Material: Extruded rigid polymer (such as PETG or clear acrylic) with a bullnose top edge instead of tempered glass. This cuts material and custom fabrication costs significantly.
Lip Height: 2 inches tall along the front edge of each shelf base.
Retention Channel: The polymer strip snaps directly into a lightweight aluminum channel at the base of the shelf, creating a crystal-clear retaining guard so full cover art remains visible.
Integrated Low-Voltage LED Lighting
Lighting Placement: Low-profile, surface-mounted aluminum LED channels installed directly beneath the front edge of each upper shelf.
Illumination: Mounted at a downward angle to project bright, shadow-free light across the covers on the tier below, with all wiring concealed inside a bottom conduit channel.
Liability Disclaimer: The creator of this video assumes no responsibility for any damages resulting from viewers following video instructions. Please exercise caution and professional judgment.
Amazon Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Influencer Associate, I earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through the provided links
Transparency Notice: Please be aware that my videos may feature paid promotions or sponsorships. Affiliate links are always clearly indicated in the description.

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1 month ago | [YT] | 6

Door and lock tips

Stop Buying Sold Out Custom Impressioning Handles When This Exists
Description
Key impressioning requires absolute rigidity to get clean marks on the blank without slipping. For a long time people have chased boutique handles that stay sold out or cost a fortune. You do not need to reinvent the wheel or wait around on empty storefronts when an identical mechanical hand tool is readily available on Amazon. The Lowell style hand vise provides massive clamping pressure through a simple twist handle design. It locks onto key blanks like a vise grip giving you total control for precise marking.
We are also running a free Peterson lock pick giveaway right now for my audience. There are no strings attached and you do not need to be subscribed. All you have to do is send your name and mailing address directly to doorandlocktips@gmail.com and we will ship them out.

amzn.to/4vSa5AY

Liability Disclaimer:
The creator of this video assumes no responsibility for any damages resulting from viewers following video instructions. Please exercise caution and professional judgment.

Amazon Affiliate Disclosure:
As an Amazon Influencer Associate, I earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through the provided links.
Transparency Notice: Please be aware that my videos may feature paid promotions or sponsorships. Affiliate links are always clearly indicated in the description.

Giveaway Disclaimer:
This giveaway is for the Peterson lock pick set. It is open to the United States audience. To enter, send your name and mailing address to doorandlocktips@gmail.com. No purchase necessary. YouTube is not a sponsor of or affiliated with this giveaway in any way.

Mirror, Mirror, on the wall, who is the wisest locksmith of all?
Is it the "Surgeon" with the single pick, waiting for that one tiny click?
Or the "Drill Sergeant" with the titanium bit, making a mess and calling it quit?
Maybe the "Old Schooler" who stands in the yard, waiting for the customer to find their card?
No, the wisest one doesn't need a guess, he’s the one who conquers the mess.
While one picks until his fingers are sore, and the other makes a pile of brass on the floor,
Michael Walker steps up with the UV light, reading the metal to set things right.
Through Door and Lock Tips, the secret is clear: precision and patience conquer the fear.
He doesn't need chance, just a steady hand, the Master Locksmith, the best in the land.
From the YouTube studio to the workbench floor, he’s the one who truly knows the door.
So before you drill or start to sweat, watch the man who hasn't been beaten yet.
The crown doesn't go to the loudest drill, it goes to the master with the highest skill!
The Modern Masterclass: Key Impressioning Reimagined
Ever wonder who the mirror points to when the chips are down and the deadbolt is stuck? We all know the types. You’ve got the "Single Pick Surgeon" who treats a keyway like a game of Operation, sweat dripping, waiting for that one tiny click to feel like a hero. Then there’s the "Drill Sergeant" who doesn't have time for feelings—if it doesn’t turn in ten seconds, he’s making a new hole bigger than a donut. And of course, the "Old Schooler" who just stares at the door until the customer remembers the key was in their shoe the whole time.
But who is truly the wisest in the land? I’m Michael Walker, and at Door and Lock Tips, I show you that the best way into a house is the path that doesn't involve a repair bill. Whether I'm in the studio or out in the field, it's about the precision of the impression and the science of the witness mark. Stick around to see how a Master Locksmith actually wins the crown today!
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Liability Disclaimer: The creator of this video assumes no responsibility for any damages resulting from viewers following video instructions. Please exercise caution and professional judgment.
Amazon Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Influencer Associate, I earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through the provided links.
Transparency Notice: Please be aware that my videos may feature paid promotions or sponsorships. Affiliate links are always clearly indicated in the description.
Giveaway: Peterson Lock Pick
I am giving away a professional Peterson Lock Pick made of high-quality government steel! There are no strings attached—no subscription required. If you want this professional tool, just send your name and mailing address to my email: Doorandlocktips@gmail.com.
Disclaimer: This giveaway is not sponsored or endorsed by YouTube. Participants must be 18 years or older and reside in a jurisdiction where such items are legal to possess.
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Gear and Complete Fix Resources
1 www.thinkpeterson.com/

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1 month ago (edited) | [YT] | 5

Door and lock tips

The Genmitsu Infrared Upgrade Reality Check
Alright community, let's talk shop and clear the air about the Genmitsu Kiosk setup. If you are trying to engrave metal keys on your setup, you already know the stock 10W unit just doesn't have what it takes. After hitting a massive roadblock and getting the runaround, I reached out to SainSmart support to find out why our key engraving projects were stalling out.
Turns out, they confirmed that the Kiosk can actually be equipped to handle this properly, but it requires the 1064nm 1W Infrared Laser Module. Once you install it, you have to update the firmware to version C07-251021.
The frustrating part? Even after documenting all their equipment on my channel and leaving an audience hanging with hardware that couldn't handle metal out of the box, they aren't hooking us up with a review module or sponsorship for this upgrade. They expect us to buy it ourselves—even with a 20% discount.
I wanted to give you guys the exact details and official documentation links so you aren't left guessing if you are stuck in the same dilemma I am:
Genmitsu 1064nm Infrared Laser Module Product Page: www.sainsmart.com/products/infrared-laser-module?_…
Infrared Laser Module User Manual and Engraving Parameters: genmitsu.s3.dualstack.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/101-…
Firmware Update Guide: docs.sainsmart.com/article/u3yz14iyls-genmitsu-l-8…
Subscribe to Door and Lock Tips: youtube.com/@doorandlocktips
Follow for more Locksmith Innovations: youtube.com/@doorandlocktips

FEATURED GEAR AND LOCKSMITH TOOLS IN THIS VIDEO:
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Specialty SFIC Kits and Workstations:
LAB Annex I-Core Ejector Block Tool: www.clksupplies.com/products/lab-annex-mini-interc…
Best A-3 SFIC Pinning, Re-Keying Kit: www.clksupplies.com/products/best-a-3-ic-re-keying…
Multi-Task KIK and Mortise Cylinder Workstation by GSR Enterprises: amzn.to/3ZbvGHJ

Vises and Bench Setup:
Lock Weiss for Lock picking: amzn.to/3AOBCgd

Panavise Products 350 PanaVise Multi-Purpose Work Center: amzn.to/3BlvVqw

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Multipurpose super strong vice: amzn.to/41rvPrQ

Precision LISHI and Hand Tools

Fingersaver for LISHI lock picks:
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Original Key Cutter Tool Stainless Steel Cutting Pliers: amzn.to/3YUqJRV

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Premium SFIC Locks and Bench Practice Hardware:
BEST Access Systems 21B772L Padlock: amzn.to/40kyyCp

Cutaways custom Paclock padlocks: cutaways.store/
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American Lock A5200D 1-3/4" Solid Body Steel Padlock: amzn.to/3ZVV0jN

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Tri-Flow TF20006 Superior Lubricant Aerosol: amzn.to/41UYHsV
CRC 2-26 Multi-Purpose Precision Lubricant: amzn.to/426MvXy
CONTROL KEY DEPTH CHARTS AND WORKSHEETS

Use these community post links to access the bench charts and top-down
mathematical templates:

1 BEST SFIC A3 To Control Key Top-Down Method: youtube.com/post/Ugkx3ma7_zbTkbiD6AngoD9e54Nj5Fv66…

2 BEST SFIC A3 To Control Key Bottom-Up Method: youtube.com/post/UgkxBTd6xq92oYcRgiwZZYjafYHA2GEU2…

3 A3 BEST Pinning Chart: youtube.com/post/UgkxvBbRxzNXyNS8ATKIxofqbvZ1FFQdx…

FREE PETERSON LOCK PICK GIVEAWAY
Get yourself a free Peterson Lock pick while supplies last only in the United States. Send me your name and your address to doorandlocktips@gmail.com no strings attached.

It is a bummer how things go sometimes, but transparency is everything. Check out the links, see if it fits your shop's workflow, and let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

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1 month ago | [YT] | 9

Door and lock tips

Zero Day: Top-Down 13 Method For BEST SFIC A2 Control Keys System

When dealing with a small format interchangeable core where the control key is lost but the cylinder is pinned up, the method to uncover the bitting involves using a pin ejector block to push the top drivers out through the top of the core without destroying the stack order. Once the top driver pins are removed and measured, you apply the top-down mathematical formula for an A2 system. For each chamber, you subtract the size of the top pin from thirteen, which gives you the exact cut depth needed for the control key in that position. Working from the back chamber to the front chamber across all pin stacks allows you to chart out the complete bitting profile. Cutting a key to those exact numbers creates a working control key that will successfully release the core from its housing, allowing you to service or rekey the entire system without having to drill out or destroy the hardware.

BEST SFIC: How to Find the Control Key Fast
DESCRIPTION
GO TO THE FULL ANCHOR VIDEO HERE: https://youtu.be/uELRE7_RO_g?si=PPyF5... You’re gonna love it! This is the complete, deep-dive master tutorial breaking down the entire process from start to finish.
In this video, I work with my friend Joe from England to solve a massive problem: recovering a BEST control key when all the cores are trapped. I show you exactly how to sacrifice one cylinder to save the entire system. We drill the housing, eject the top pins cleanly through the LAB Annex tool, and use top-down mathematical formulas to decode the system.
FEATURED GEAR AND LOCKSMITH TOOLS IN THIS VIDEO:
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Specialty SFIC Kits and Workstations:
LAB Annex I-Core Ejector Block Tool: www.clksupplies.com/products/lab-annex-mini-interc…
Best A-3 SFIC Pinning, Re-Keying Kit: www.clksupplies.com/products/best-a-3-ic-re-keying…
Multi-Task KIK and Mortise Cylinder Workstation by GSR Enterprises: amzn.to/3ZbvGHJ
Vises and Bench Setup:
Lock Weiss for Lock picking: amzn.to/3AOBCgd
Panavise Products 350 PanaVise Multi-Purpose Work Center: amzn.to/3BlvVqw
Mini Drill Press Vice Bench Vice Clamp Aluminum: amzn.to/40kH7x9
Multipurpose super strong vice: amzn.to/41rvPrQ
Precision LISHI and Hand Tools:
Fingersaver for LISHI lock picks: www.uhs-hardware.com/products/finger-saver-thumb-b…
Lishi caring bag: amzn.to/3AH0KWj
Original Key Cutter Tool Stainless Steel Cutting Pliers: amzn.to/3YUqJRV
Heavy duty screwdriver perfect for Locksmiths: amzn.to/3AxDeuM
Premium SFIC Locks and Bench Practice Hardware:
BEST Access Systems 21B772L Padlock: amzn.to/40kyyCp
Cutaways custom Paclock padlocks: cutaways.store/
www.ebay.com/usr/cutaways
American Lock A5200D 1-3/4" Solid Body Steel Padlock: amzn.to/3ZVV0jN
Essential Shop Supplies and Lubricants:
Tri-Flow TF20006 Superior Lubricant Aerosol: amzn.to/41UYHsV
CRC 2-26 Multi-Purpose Precision Lubricant: amzn.to/426MvXy
CONTROL KEY DEPTH CHARTS & WORKSHEETS
Use these community post links to access the bench charts and top-down mathematical templates:
1 BEST SFIC A3 To Control Key Top-Down Method: youtube.com/post/Ugkx3ma7_zbTkbiD6AngoD9e54Nj5Fv66…
2 BEST SFIC A3 To Control Key Bottom-Up Method: youtube.com/post/UgkxBTd6xq92oYcRgiwZZYjafYHA2GEU2…
3 A3 BEST Pinning Chart: youtube.com/post/UgkxvBbRxzNXyNS8ATKIxofqbvZ1FFQdx…
A3 PINNING MAP & BENCH CHARTS
Take screenshots and print these out as a stack for your workbench! I designed these templates with light colors specifically so they won't eat up your printer toner. Keep a thick stack ready on your bench so you can fill them out by hand as you work. It’s the ultimate way to stay fast, track your pin stacks, and prevent costly pinning mistakes.
FREE PETERSON LOCK PICK GIVEAWAY
Get yourself a free Peterson Lock pick while supplies last only in the United States. Send me your name and your address to doorandlocktips@gmail.com no strings attached.
"My videos focus on advanced lock picking techniques and tools for locksmiths and professionals. They do not promote illegal activities or techniques that could be used to harm others. These videos are intended for those who are passionate about lock sport and want to learn from experienced professionals."
Subscribe to my channel for more professional locksmithing tutorials, SFIC deep dives, and shop tips!
YOUTUBE DISCLAIMER
This video is for educational purposes only. All activities are performed on locks owned by the creator or with express permission. YouTube is not a sponsor of this giveaway and is not responsible for its fulfillment.

Liability Disclaimer:
The creator of this video assumes no responsibility for any damages resulting from viewers following video instructions. Please exercise caution and professional judgment.
Amazon Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Influencer Associate, I earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through the provided links.
Transparency Notice: Please be aware that my videos may feature paid promotions or sponsorships. Affiliate links are always clearly indicated in the description.

Giveaway Disclaimer:
Giveaway for the Peterson Lock pick. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. The creator assumes no liability for the use or misuse of items won in this giveaway. Please check local laws regarding lock pick ownership before entering. Just send me your name and your mailing address to doorandlocktips@gmail.com


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1 month ago (edited) | [YT] | 7