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Keys by Code or Duplication

Key Duplication, Cutting by Code & More

Your Trusted Source

House keys, car keys, customized keys, locks, safes—we’ve got it all at Guardian Angel Locksmith. A key is more than just a piece of metal; it’s your ticket to access, security, and peace of mind. But not all keys are created equal, and more importantly, not all key copies are. A poorly cut duplicate can not only fail to work, but it can also cause premature wear and damage to your locks. Name any variety of locks or keys that you need, and we are guaranteed to have the technology, expertise, and inventory to provide a perfect, factory-spec key that works smoothly every time.

The Art and Science of Professional Key Cutting

There is a significant difference between getting a key made at a self-serve kiosk or big-box store and having it crafted by a professional locksmith. It’s the difference between a rough estimate and a precision instrument.

Precision Matters: The Problem with a “Copy of a Copy”

Most standard duplication machines are simple tracers. They trace the pattern of your existing key and cut a new one to match. However, your daily-use key is likely worn down from years of use. When you copy a worn key, you create a slightly less accurate version.

If you then copy that key, the errors compound. This is called “generational loss,” and it’s why copied keys often stick, jam, or require jiggling to work. At Guardian Angel Lock & Security, we use state-of-the-art, professionally calibrated cutting machines to ensure every copy is as precise as possible.

The Gold Standard: Keys Cut by Code

For a truly perfect key, we often recommend cutting it “by code.” Nearly every lock has a specific code number from the manufacturer that dictates the exact depths of each cut in the key. By using this code, we don’t copy your worn-out key; we create a brand-new, factory-original key. This is the ideal method for creating a key that will operate flawlessly and is the required method when you have lost all your keys for a car, filing cabinet, or other lock.

A Guide to Modern & Classic Key Technologies

Key Duplication

The world of keys is vast and ever-evolving. Our technicians are experts across the full spectrum, from antique warded keys to the latest encrypted automotive smart keys.

Automotive Keys: A Technological Evolution

Automotive Key Repairs

Car keys have transformed from simple mechanical objects into sophisticated pieces of security technology. We have the specialized equipment to cut and program virtually any car key, often much faster and more affordably than the dealership.

 

Transponder Keys

A transponder is an electronic key for cars with a small microchip (circuit) for emitting signals that are built inside. These vehicle keys are also known as “chip keys” and they are a powerful deterrent against theft. Creating a new transponder key is a two-step process: precisely cutting the metal blade and then programming the chip to communicate with your specific vehicle.

Smart Keys & Proximity Fobs

These keys allow for keyless entry and push-to-start functionality. The vehicle senses when the key fob is nearby, allowing you to unlock the doors and start the engine without ever taking the key out of your pocket. We can replace and program these advanced fobs for most makes and models.

Specialty & High-Security Keys

Mul-T-Lock

Beyond standard keys, we specialize in keys that offer a higher level of security and control.

Tubular Keys

A tubular key is a miniature key with a hollow, cylindrical shaft used to open tubular pin tumbler locks. Instead of cuts on a blade, modern tubular keys have grooves of different lengths built on the outer surface at the end of the shaft. These grooves are aligned to the shaft and allow the pins in the lock to slide to the correct depth. These keys are most often used to open vending machines, bike locks, small safes, and alarm system panels. Tubular keys are harder to copy than normal keys because they are less common and require a different, specialized cutting machine.

Proximity Key Cards and Fobs

A keycard is a small, flat card, similar to the size of a credit card, while a fob is a small plastic token for a keychain. Both are used in modern access control systems. When the card or fob is presented to a reader on the door, the reader scans a unique digital inscription. If the code is authorized in the system, the mechanism disengages the lock. These are commonly used in hotels, apartment buildings, and commercial offices to provide convenient and trackable access without using a traditional key.

Legacy Keys

Our expertise also extends to older and antique lock systems.

Skeleton Keys: A skeleton key is a very simple key with a cylindrical shaped shaft and a single toothed end that is designed to open warded locks. A warded lock uses a series of static obstructions (wards) to block the wrong key from turning. A skeleton key is designed with most of its center area removed, allowing it to bypass these wards and operate the lock. These are typically found on antique furniture, chests, and very old interior doors and are not considered a secure locking mechanism for modern applications.

The Guardian Angel Difference

 

Why choose Guardian Angel Lock & Security for your key needs? Because a key is only as good as the expert who makes it.

Extensive Inventory

We stock an enormous range of key blanks, from standard house keys to rare, hard-to-find keys for classic cars, high-security locks, and specialty equipment.

State-of-the-Art Equipment

We invest in the best technology, from precision code cutters that create factory-perfect keys to the advanced diagnostic and programming tools required for modern vehicle keys.

True Expertise

Our staff members are trained locksmiths, not just clerks. We understand the locks these keys operate, allowing us to troubleshoot issues and provide solutions, not just copies.

Call Guardian Angel Locksmith for more information regarding your security needs and we’ll get right to work!

MUL-T- LOCK KEY DUPLICATION

SCHLAGE KEY DUPLICATION

Contact Us Today!

Please feel free to contact us with any input. We would love to hear from you!

Shop and Office Locations:

Location 1

13610 Ventura Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 91423

Local: 818-652-5269

Location 2

14445 Moorpark St
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403

Local: 818-305-3455

 

Email: info@guardianangellocksmith.com

 

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Areas We Serve