If you are thinking of becoming a locksmith, then you should pay attention to high school subjects such as metal work, math and physics.
It will give you the right foundation to build your career. Besides, if you want to enroll for locksmith training in any college, the college might likely request that you pass metal work, physics and math before you can be granted admission.
Although the duration for locksmith courses in colleges is between 10 to 12 weeks, but you will also be required to work as an intern (apprentice) for a few months with a certified locksmith before you can be issued a certificate. You can actually acquire locksmith training online.
During the course of your training, you can choose an area to specialize in. The various areas you can specialize in as a locksmith are, automotive locksmith, residential door locksmith, and safe and security system locksmith. Before choosing an aspect to specialize in, ensure that it is an area that will guarantee you steady flow of income.
After you must have undergone both the academic and on the field training as a locksmith, then you should approach the local authority in your city to make enquiries and apply for a license. In the US and in most developed countries, it is illegal to work as a locksmith without first obtaining a license and permit from the government.
Part of where you are expected to spend the bulk of your startup capital when establishing your business is in the purchase of the required tools.
The tools you need to launch your locksmith business are; key duplicator, code cutting machine, lockout kit, lock pick sets, re -keying kits, tension wrenches, pins, pinning kits and generator.
You will also be required to purchase a utility vehicle to convey your tools from your office to the site where you are expected to work. Here are some of the locksmith tools and what they are used for;
5 Tools and Equipment You Need to Become a Locksmith
1. Key Duplicator/Key Cutting Machine
One major tool that all locksmiths must have is a key duplicator or key cutting machine. Key duplicator or key cutting machine is used in cutting keys.
Key cutting (the metalworking term for “shaping by removing material”) is the primary method of key duplication: a flat key is fitted into a vice in a machine, with a blank attached to a parallel vice, and the original key is moved along a guide, while the blank is moved against a wheel, which cuts it.
2. Code Cutting Machine (3D Pro Xtreme)
This is the 5th generation machine from Laser Key Products, a U.S. based company that was founded by a locksmith. They produce equipment designed specifically for locksmiths. The original 3D Pro was also the first machine designed to cut both side-milled keys and edge-cut keys.
3. Tension Wrenches
Tension tools are standard tools of the trade when picking locks. Tension wrenches are needed for lock picking as they apply torque to the lock plug. By applying torque, you will be able to separate the top pins (driver pins) from the bottom pins.
The bottom pins are the ones that come in contact with the keys. Most lock pick tension wrenches are L shaped. However, there are specialty lock pick tension tools that also help to make lockpicking quick and easy.
4. Spring Loaded Round Tension Tool
A spring loaded round tension tool is preferred by many lock pickers. These tools help regulate the torque when picking locks.
The dial that is included on some of these round tension tools are preferred by many newer locksmiths. When choosing lock pick tension tools, pay attention to materials.
Stainless steel lock pick tension wrenches will give you more longevity, allowing you to spend less on replacing these vital tools.
Some may be firm, while others are flexible. There are double-prong, spring-loaded and even hands-free tension wrench sets and tools available. You will want a variety of these so you always have the perfect tool for any job.
5. Re-Keying Kits
Re-keying tools are vital for every locksmith. Make sure you always have an ample number of shims by purchasing a bulk unit of 100.
You also need cylinder rings and collars in a variety of finishes. Polished brass, aluminum, oil rubbed bronze and satin chrome are some of the most popular choices.
When pinning, every locksmith needs to have items like shim picks, ring pliers and tweezers. A universal pin tool is a great item to add to your pinning arsenal.
You will always need a cylinder removal tool, plug holders, a caliper, a lock pick and, of course, a locksmith’s tool bag. When purchasing look picks, make sure to have an assortment of sizes.
In Conclusion;
If you are looking at to start a well-equipped locksmith business, you are expected to spend between $10,000 to 12,000 on tools alone and that includes advanced key cutting equipment, shelving and base-line initial inventory. But of course, you would need a van or truck for a mobile locksmith business.
Interestingly, all these tools can be gotten from a fairly used (Second-hand shop) and you are sure of getting the whole tools for less than or half the price of new tools. But you must have it in mind that the lifespan of the tools might not be much but you can be rest assured that it will serve you for a while.