What Fobs and Keys To Stock?
Good morning! My name is Fernando. I opened a company called Lock 'N' Roll in San Antonio, TX, and I read your article on the tools a locksmith needs to work. Very good and informative read. (Revenue In Remotes, https://www.locksmithledger.com/home/article/12438163/revenue-in-remotes)
My question is, as I am new to the world of making new car keys and programming them, how do I know which fobs or transponder keys to stack on in order for me to have it ready for a customer? Is there a database out there that can tell me which remotes and blank keys are sold more often? Thank you very much!
Fernando Jorge
San Antonio, TX
Every area of the country has a different mix of local vehicles. The best idea is to ask your local locksmith supplier for a list of what is selling best in your particular area. I would start with transponder keys for domestic models such as GM and Ford, then think about Toyota and Honda as probably the next most popular. Getting started in automotive locksmithing does require an investment. There is no way around it.
ID for A Dental Safe
I bought a safe through New Image Dental Implant Center or through First Avenue Dental Associates many years ago. I don’t have the manual and just want to know how to reset the code. It is open now.
There have been dozens of safe lock manufacturers in business and Locksmith Ledger has no way of connecting the serial number to a possible specific lock manufacturer. Further, each safe lock manufacturer has its own system for changed combinations. Our suggestion is to contact a reputable locksmith business in your area who can inspect your safe cabinet and provide positive advice.
TigerShark2 Advice
We were actually looking into several different code machines, the TigerShark2 being one of them. I am just curious if you guys (being a locksmith magazine and all) have heard from other people in the industry who have purchased a TigerShark2, whether or not they are happy with their machine and would recommend it. And if they have been able to compare it to other alternative machines.
I’m just trying to make sure we invest wisely, since it is a large investment
Sean, Albemarle Lock and Safe
The “Engraving with Tiger Shark” E-mail you received was an advertisement by HPC and not an endorsement from Locksmith Ledger. The job of Locksmith Ledger is to keep our subscribers informed as new products appear on the market. I have worked closely with HPC during the development of the Tiger Shark 2 machine but have not had an actual machine for testing. My suggestion would be to contact fellow local locksmiths and your favorite locksmith distributor and ask for their advice.
Subscribe To ENewsletters
Want monthly updates delivered right into your Inbox? Subscribe to Locksmith Ledger’s monthly enewsletters.
- Our issue promo enewsletter gives readers an online preview of each new issue.
- ProductWatch showcases the newest products being marketed to locksmiths.
- EventWatch notifies are readers of upcoming trade shows and educational opportunities.
- Notes from the Editor is a timely, interesting monthly report from Editor-In-Chief Gale Johnson.
Just visit http://www.locksmithledger.com/reg/newsletter/display, select the newsletters you would like to receive, and type in your email address, and soon these monthly updates will arrive in your Inbox.
Send Your Letters
The editors of Locksmith Ledger welcome reader input. We would like to hear your comments and suggestions on any of our articles or general industry trends and topics.
Share your opinions on relevant topics like locksmith licensing, the shift from key to keyless for both automotive and residential, and the state of our industry in general. Let us know what works and doesn't work for your business.
Letters can be emailed to [email protected] or mailed to Locksmith Ledger, 125 S. Wilke Road, Suite 300, Arlington Heights, IL 60005.