How to Hand File a Key for a Keyless Lock

I’m a bit obsessed about locks having keys, which is a bit ironic for a lock picker! In this video, I create a working key for a fantastic lock without one :-)

Remember: only pick locks that are yours and that are not in use! Keep locksport legal!

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[LockNoob]

I’m a bit obsessed about locks having keys, which is a bit ironic for a lock picker! In this video, I create a working key for a fantastic lock without one :-)

[diggerlenny]

When i saw all the square key pin 'holes' i didnt think it would work. Me of little faith🙈was spot on when finished, nice job!!

[timbober]

I watched a video where someone made a key and insisted it must be filled only on the forward stroke. I don’t question your skills I remember the beautiful jewelry you made from a key a while back.

[DonzLockz]

Nice work, very precise filing. Worked like a charm too.🍺😎

[Timboa]

I also like to make keys when I have the lock picked (same obsession!). When I get the pin marks, I like to scribe a line going down so that as I file, it doesn't wonder (I can keep deep cuts on track). I also do the similar system of using an aggressive triangle (in my case) file, then smooth w/round file, then test. Very nice informative video!

[lorenkoehler]

If you are not trying to match an existing key, you can take this opportunity to switch the key pins around to make a more interesting bitting pattern before cutting the key.

[timothyadams]

You are an artist at your craft my friend. Thanks for the education.

[nrowlett]

Nice work, was hoping you'd get a key made for this lock. Even better you made your own. I wouldn't expect any less from you. Gratz! 😎🔑

[cherokee]

Nice job LN on demonstration of filing a key. 👍👍👍👍🧡

[noakeswalker]

Nicely made key. Btw, most types of file will apparently last longer if you only push down on the forward stroke - I forget to do this in the heat of filing, like just about everyone else I should think ! And no, I haven't actually tested this long term, so it's only a rumour, but it makes much sense.

[Swynndla]

Really nicely and clearly explained - you're a really good teacher, thanks you so much! So is that a Federal specific key blank or is it a more general key blank that fits that core?

[NoctisMotus]

A 0.4 Artline pen is nice for making a very clean and precise mark on the blade of the blank. They allow you to look down the chamber and see exactly where you are placing the mark. They are also useful during the cutting/filing process to check that all of your cuts have remained centred. I will do this from time-to-time as I tend to use pippin files for cutting keys by hand.

Alas, I have to say that you may be the winner of the worst file choice ever award, at least in terms of my own preferences. Leaving vertical walls could prove to be problematic, IMO. Also, a round file will not save you from "canyoning" while impressioning. :)

[pickbeard]

Very well explained and throughout video.
Loved the end result.
I think I could spend not only a fortune on blank keys but the rest of the year making working keys for all the locks I have 🤔🤔😂😂

[tennesseelockpicking]

Great job. Looks like a code cut key.👍

[roysammons]

Nicely done Lock Noob.
Like my old dad used to say.
"File slowly because once it's off, you can't put it back on".

[JasonCarlson]

Well done cutting.. I have a Lishi cutter that takes a bit of file work out of it.. but it will cost a few keys getting the feel for it.. Great demo!

[gantry]

Again a very nice, well thought out video. Nice job explaining each of the steps. I know this video wasn't about make a code cut key but just so I understand... You could have measured the length of the key pins with calibers, gone on the internet to see what "number" pins equal the measurements you got and then go to a locksmith and have them "code cut" a key for you. Do I have that right?

[dylanhuntsghosts]

That was a great video dude! I must try my hand at this. Great job!

[EnzoGuardino]

Great tutorial, it worked out great! 👍

[BD..]

I get the vibe that you like federal padlocks.
This one is a decent one for todays applications.