The Key Machine Encyclopedia, Part II

When it comes to shopping for a key machine, the choices are almost as varied as the type of locksmithing that the machine is meant to support.

With the rise of internet connectivity, it’s no surprise that most of the newest key machines are automatic and computerized. These models deliver functionality that manual machines simply can’t, including ever-expanding code databases, firmware upgrades and decoding from an image.

However, like everything else, although adding electronics to a key machine delivers features otherwise not possible, those features and the conveniences come with a price. Generally speaking, manual single-function key machines cost significantly less than automatic multifunction, or all-in-one, machines.

The Price is Right

Naturally, price is a huge differentiator in the market, but price shouldn’t be the only consideration. Bill Mandlebaum, who has 11 key machines of various types in service at his business, says a machine’s accuracy and durability are more important than price.

“Price doesn’t matter to me as long as I get a good machine that’s going to hold up and cut accurate keys,” says Mandlebaum, president of ALOA, who has operated The Brass Key in Bowling Green, Ohio, since 1981. Accuracy is “our whole reputation.”

Hunter Salazar, business development manager at distributor Banner Solutions, agrees that there’s more to it than just price. He adds support, service, turnaround time for repairs and warranty as important considerations as well.

“I’ve seen a lot of customers, they’re really price-sensitive,” says Salazar, who worked at manufacturer Laser Key Products and then distributor H.L. Flake before Flake’s acquisition by Banner in spring 2021. “But you have to take into account [that] with a discounted price, you’re not going to get the service and warranty” that you might want.

Read the Manual

A key machine’s “operation,” whether manual, semi-automatic or automatic, speaks to how much control a locksmith has over the cutting process. A manual or even semi-automatic key machine is a less complicated device.

This is advantageous, Mandlebaum notes, because he doesn’t have to bother with tech support when it comes to repairs. “I can pretty much fix almost any machine except the electronic stuff,” he says. “Manual or semi-manual: Any of those things can be fixed pretty easy.”

Of course, unless you’re cutting keys on a hand-crank or punch machine, all key machines have electronics to power the cutter, and Mandlebaum adds that one spec he looks for is the motor’s power.

“All my machines are 110 [volts],” he explains. “That way if the one in the truck breaks down, I can pull one right off the workbench, throw it right back in the truck and be right back on the road immediately.” Mandlebaum says he has a sine inverter setup in his truck to power up a key machine.

Key Machine Encyclopedia

The Locksmith Ledger Key Machine Encyclopedia is an attempt to list all key machines in production and offered for sale in North America at the start of 2022. It’s our hope that this will become a living document that will evolve as developments necessitate. The second part, presented here, lists models that operate manually and semi-automatically. The first part, which ran in January 2022, covered automatic machines. (See the full, combined Key Machine Encyclopedia online at www.locksmithledger.com/21247894.)

Products are listed in alphabetical order by manufacturer and then divided by the types of keys cut. NOTE: Not all key machines can cut all types of listed keys out of the box. Additional clamps for an additional cost might be necessary.

Manufacturers categorize key machines differently and use different terms to describe their machines and a machine’s features. We have tried to standardize where possible, but always consult the appropriate manufacturer or your favorite distributor if you have specific questions, particularly with regard to keys cut and the terms of a machine’s warranty.

Locksmith Ledger took great pains to ensure that all information contained here is accurate and up to date. Manual and semi-automatic machines are classified below as All-In-One, Edge, Laser and Specialty. If any errors or omissions are discovered, any updates have been made or models have been discontinued, please contact us at [email protected].

Framon

Edge

#2

The #2 can originate edge (automotive and residential), bit (padlock and safe-deposit box), high-security and Tibbe keys from code. It includes the latest version of Genericode.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 10-1/2 in. (w) x 17 in. (d) x 8 in. (h)
• Weight: 36 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr., freight inc.

#2J

The #2J has been modified to handle detention keys in addition to the keys that are possible on the #2. A special vise helps to clamp the larger keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 10-1/2 in. (w) x 17 in. (d) x 8 in. (h)
• Weight: 36 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr., freight inc.

DC-300

The DC-300 can originate from code or duplicate automotive edge keys, including motorcycle keys. An additional carbide cutter will allow it to cut steel keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 16 in. (w) x 10-1/2 in. (d) x 6-1/4 in. (h)
• Weight: 33 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr., freight inc.

KX-1

The KX-1 can code-cut cylinder edge-cut keys but is aimed particularly at high-security keys, including Medeco, Kaba PEAKS and Schlage Primus. The machine is set up to cylinder manufacturer preferences, but additional kits are available.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 13 in. (w) x 14 in. (d) x 13 in. (h)
• Weight: 33 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr., freight inc.

MD-1

The MD-1 can duplicate edge cylinder and automotive keys. It can cut keys up to 4 inches long without additional accessories.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 12 in. (w) x 15 in. (d) x 16 in. (h)
• Weight: 29 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr., freight inc.

Laser

Sidewinder 2

The Sidewinder 2 can originate or duplicate laser keys, including Volkswagen and Audi. Depth and space rods allow for a quick change between code cutting and duplication.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 6 in. (w) x 14 in. (d) x 10 in. (h)
• Weight: 33 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr., freight inc.

Sidewinder

The Sidewinder can duplicate laser keys, including Volkswagen and Audi, but also originate side-milled keys. It can be upgraded to a Sidewinder 2 code model.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 6 in. (w) x 14 in. (d) x 10 in. (h)
• Weight: 33 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr., freight inc.

Specialty

TKM-100

The TKM-100 can originate tubular keys by code. Its self-adjusting collet accepts three key sizes and will cut brass and steel keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 8 in. (w) x 14 in. (d) x 10 in. (h)
• Weight: 33 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr., freight inc.

DBM-1

The DBM-1 can cut flat steel keys for safe-deposit boxes, lockers and padlocks. It can duplicate blanks up to 3-1/2 inches long.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 10-1/2 in. (w) x 16 in. (d) x 6-1/4 in. (h)
• Weight: 33 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr., freight inc.

JD-12

The JD-12 can duplicate detention keys. It’s preset for paracentric keys but can cut mogul keys through a separate kit.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 12 in. (w) x 16 in. (d) x 10 in. (h)
• Weight: 35 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr., freight inc.

More info: www.framon.com

HPC

Edge

The Original Blitz

The Original Blitz can cut edge keys by code cards, as well as Tibbe and tubular keys as an option. It also can cut high-security keys, including the new Medeco 4.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 12 in. (w) x 14 in. (d) x 9 in. (h)
• Weight: 35 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr.

Extreme Blitz

The Extreme Blitz can cut all the keys of an Original Blitz but includes a larger code card deck, the tubular key adapter and free code software.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 12 in. (w) x 14 in. (d) x 9 in. (h)
• Weight: 35 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr.

Base Blitz

The Base Blitz is aimed at being a second machine and specific, high-volume use. It doesn’t come with cutters or code cards but can use any of the Blitz cutters from a primary machine.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 12 in. (w) x 14 in. (d) x 9 in. (h)
• Weight: 35 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr.

Switch Blitz

The Switch Blitz can cut edge (automotive and residential/commercial), Tibbe or tubular keys by code or as a duplicator. It also can cut high-security keys, including the new Medeco 4, and safe-deposit box keys.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 12 in. (w) x 14 in. (d) x 9 in. (h)
• Weight: 39 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr.

Power Speedex

The Power Speedex can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial) keys as well as flat-steel keys as an option. It can accommodate large-bow keys.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 13 in. (w) x 16 in. (d) x 10 in. (h)
• Weight: 25 lbs.
• Warranty: 90 days

Premier Speedex

The Premier Speedex can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial) keys as well as flat-steel keys as an option.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 12 in. (w) x 14 in. (d) x 8 in. (h)
• Weight: 27 lbs.
• Warranty: 90 days

Mini Speedex

The lightweight Mini Speedex can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial) keys as well as large-bow keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 11 in. (w) x 8 in. (d) x 8 in. (h)
• Weight: 17 lbs.
• Warranty: 90 days

Trace-A-Key

The Trace-A-Key can duplicate a wide variety of edge-cut keys, including longer automotive keys. It has a single-casting construction for durability.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 12 in. (w) x 16 in. (d) x 13 in. (h)
• Weight: 29 lbs.
• Warranty: 90 days

The Punch Machine

The Punch Machine can cut commercial, residential, automotive and furniture edge-cut keys by code. It can punch only flat-side keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 10 in. (w) x 13 in. (d) x 7 in. (h)
• Weight: 23 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr.

Specialty

Tubular Duplicode

The Tubular Duplicode can cut tubular keys by code. It can accommodate left- and right-hand cuts as well as pin within pin.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 16 in. (w) x 5 in. (d) x 5 in. (h)
• Weight: 11 lbs.
• Warranty: 90 days

Tubular Duplicut

The Tubular Duplicut can duplicate standard-size tubular keys. It also can duplicate a key from an HPC Tubular Pick.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 16 in. (w) x 5 in. (d) x 5 in. (h)
• Weight: 11 lbs.
• Warranty: 90 days

Pocket Cut-Up

The Pocket Cut-Up is a pocket-size code cutter for tubular keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 4 in. (w) x 2 in. (dia.)
• Weight: 0.8 lbs.
• Warranty: 90 days

More info: www.hudsonlock.com

Ilco

Specialty

009B

The 009B can duplicate seven- and eight-cut tubular keys. It includes a key-positioning device.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 14 in. (w) x 4-1/4 in. (d) x 4-1/4 in. (h)
• Weight: 8 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

More info: www.ilco.us

JMA

Edge

Vienna

The Vienna can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial) and cruciform keys. Its counter keeps track of the number of keys cut.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 16-15/16 in. (w) x 16-35/64 in. (d) x 11-1/32 in. (h)
• Weight: 59.5 lbs.
• Warranty: 5 yrs. mechanical

Vienna Smart

The Vienna Smart can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial) and cruciform keys. It has a storage area for accessories.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 16-15/16 in. (w) x 16-35/64 in. (d) x 11-1/32 in. (h)
• Weight: 59.5 lbs.
• Warranty: 5 yrs. mechanical

Berna

The Berna can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial) and cruciform keys.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 13-25/64 in. (w) x 17/18 in. (d) x 9-37/64 in. (h)
• Weight: 37.5 lbs.
• Warranty: 5 yrs. mechanical

Nomad

The lightweight Nomad can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial) and cruciform keys. A safety mechanism will shut down the machine if power is lost.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 10-1/2 in. (w) x 6-1/2 in. (d) x 8-1/2 in. (h)
• Weight: 14.3 lbs.
• Warranty: 5 yrs. mechanical

Ecco

The Ecco can duplicate edge and cruciform keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 18-1/2 in. (w) x 9-21/32 in. (d) x 11-1/32 in. (h)
• Weight: 33 lbs.
• Warranty: 5 yrs. mechanical

Ecco Plus

The Ecco Plus can duplicate edge and cruciform keys. It has a four-sided jaw.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 20-7/8 in. (w) x 9-21/32 in. (d) x 11-1/32 in. (h)
• Weight: 35 lbs.
• Warranty: 5 yrs. mechanical

Laser

CAPRI

The CAPRI can duplicate laser, dimple and tubular keys. It has a top tray for accessories.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 16-15/16 in. (w) x 15-11/64 in. (d) x 18-5/16 in. (h)
• Weight: 55.1 lbs.
• Warranty: 5 yrs. mechanical

Neo

The Neo can duplicate laser and dimple keys, including Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen and Audi.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 10-41/64 in. (w) x 13-11/32 in. (d) x 14-57/64 in. (h)
• Weight: 39.7 lbs.
• Warranty: 5 yrs. mechanical

Specialty

Ecco Bit

The Ecco Bit can duplicate Tibbe and bit (single- and double-blade) keys. It has an option for wave keys.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 18-1/2 in. (w) x 9-21/32 in. (d) x 11-1/32 in. (h)
• Weight: 35 lbs.
• Warranty: 5 yrs. mechanical

Ecco RG

The Ecco RG can duplicate wave keys. It has an option for Tibbe and bit (single- and double-blade) keys.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 18-1/2 in. (w) x 9-21/32 in. (d) x 11-1/32 in. (h)
• Weight: 35 lbs.
• Warranty: 5 yrs. mechanical

More info: www.jmausa.com

Keyline USA

Edge

Easy Quattro

The Easy Quattro can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial) and cruciform keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 14-1/2 in. (w) x 14-1/2 in. (d) x 9-1/2 in. (h)
• Weight: 42 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

106

The 106 can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial), padlock and cruciform keys. It has an optional carbide cutter.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 18 in. (w) x 15 in. (d) x 17 in. (h)
• Weight: 55 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

Laser

T-Rex

The T-Rex can duplicate laser (including Volkswagen and Audi), dimple, Tibbe and tubular keys.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 12-39/64 in. (w) x 16-35/64 in. (d), 18-45/64 in. (d) w chip tray x 19-19/64 in. (h)
• Weight: 52.9 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

T-Rex Plus

The T-Rex Plus can duplicate laser (including Volkswagen and Audi), dimple, Tibbe and tubular keys. Its tilting clamp allows for cutting dimple keys without additional accessories.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 12-39/64 in. (w) x 16-35/64 in. (d) , 18-45/64 in. (d) w chip tray x 19-19/64 in. (h)
• Weight: 52.9 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

T-Rex Advance

The T-Rex Advance can duplicate laser (including Volkswagen and Audi), dimple, Tibbe and tubular keys. Its tilting clamp allows for cutting dimple keys without additional accessories, and it has motorized tool positioning.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 12-39/64 in. (w) x 16-35/64 in. (d), 18-45/64 in. (d) w chip tray x 19-19/64 in. (h)
• Weight: 55.1 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

303

The 303 can duplicate laser, dimple and Tibbe keys. It includes a storage tray for accessories.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 12 in. (w) x 15 in. (d) x 21 in. (h)
• Weight: 51 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

Specialty

Arcadia

The Arcadia can cut tubular keys for a wide range of brands. It has a built-in clamp-storage compartment.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 8-1/4 in. (w) x 15-3/4 in. (d) x 8-1/4 in. (h)
• Weight: 28 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

Falcon

The Falcon can cut Tibbe keys by code. Optional clamps allow it to cut high-security keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 15-3/4 in. (w) x 14-1/2 in. (d) x 9 in. (h)
• Weight: 38 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

More info: www.keyline-usa.com

Kukai

Edge

SEC-M10

The lightweight SEC-M10 can duplicate automotive and residential/commercial edge-cut keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 12-51/64 in. (w) x 8-43/64 in. (d) x 9-29/64 in. (h)
• Weight: 13.9 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr.

More info: www.uhs-hardware.com

Mul-T-Lock

Specialty

Compact II

The Compact II can cut by code Mul-T-Lock keys for the Classic and Interactive+ (MTL600) series. It cuts to original manufacturer specifications.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 9-21/32 in. (w) x 13-63/64 in. (d) x 12-7/8 in. (h)
• Weight: 45 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

Compact 7X7

The Compact 7X7 can cut by code Mul-T-Lock keys for the 7X7 and Integrator series. It cuts to original manufacturer specifications.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 9-21/32 in. (w) x 13-63/64 in. (d) x 12-7/8 in. (h)
• Weight: 45 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

More info: www.mul-t-lock.com/en-us

PRO-LOK

Edge

Blue Punch Key Machine

The lightweight Blue Punch Key Machine can cut brand-dedicated keys to original specifications. Each machine is preset to handle one or two brands, and 21 different models are available.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 4 in. (w) x 12-1/2 in. (d) x 8-1/2 in. (h)
• Weight: 12 lbs.
• Warranty: 90 days

More info: www.pro-lok.com

Silca

Edge

Flash 008

The lightweight Flash 008 can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial) and cruciform keys, including large-bow keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 12-13/64 in. (w) x 9-29/64 in. (d) x 7-51/64 in. (h)
• Weight: 14 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

Flash Mobile

The lightweight Flash Mobile can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial) keys, including large-bow keys. It’s battery-powered and includes a handle for remote key cutting.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 12-39/64 in. (w) x 10-3/64 in. (d) x 10-3/64 in. (h)
• Weight: 15.4 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

Duo Plus

The Duo Plus can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial), cruciform, bit and high-security keys. It allows for free or controlled carriage movement.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 20-3/32 in. (w) x 17-23/32 in. (d) x 11-1/32 in. (h)
• Weight: 50.7 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

Speed 044 Semi-Automatic

The Speed 044 Semi-Automatic can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial) and cruciform keys, including large-bow keys.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 22-27/32 in. (w) x 18-1/8 in. (d) x 9/27-32 in. (h)
• Weight: 31 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

Speed 045 Manual

The Speed 045 Manual can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial) and cruciform keys, including large-bow keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 15-3/4 in. (w) x 18-1/8 in. (d) x 9/27-32 in. (h)
• Weight: 31 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

Bravo III with EZ Jaw

The Bravo III with EZ Jaw can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial) keys, including large-bow keys. It includes a four-position clamp.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 15 in. (w) x 20 in. (d) x 10 in. (h)
• Weight: 47 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

KD50C

The KD50C can duplicate edge (automotive and residential/commercial) and padlock keys, including large-bow keys.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 14 in. (w) x 17-1/2 in. (d) x 11-1/2 in. (h)
• Weight: 61 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

Laser

Swift Plus

The Swift Plus can duplicate laser (including Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen and Audi), dimple and tubular keys. It has a built-in accessories tray.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 10-1/4 in. (w) x 11-15/64 in. (d) x 12-13/32 in. (h)
• Weight: 26.5 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

Twister II

The Twister II can duplicate laser, dimple, Tibbe, tubular and Fichet keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 9-27/32 in. (w) x 14-37/64 in. (d) x 14-37/64 in. (h)
• Weight: 53 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

Matrix II

The Matrix II can duplicate laser and Tibbe keys. It has a built-in accessories tray.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 12-7/32 in. (w) x 15-3/4 in. (d) x 18-33/64 in. (h)
• Weight: 54.2 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

Specialty

Speed 046 Manual

The Speed 046 Manual can duplicate bit (safe and safe-deposit) and flat keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 15-3/4 in. (w) x 18-1/8 in. (d) x 9/27-32 in. (h)
• Weight: 31 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

Crown

The Crown can duplicate tubular keys of several sizes. It allows for cut-within-a-cut duplication.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 9 in. (w) x 18 in. (d) x 7 in. (h)
• Weight: 37.5 lbs.
• Warranty: 2 yrs.

More info: www.ilco.us

Xhorse

All-in-One

DOLPHIN XP-007

The DOLPHIN XP-007 can duplicate automotive edge, laser, dimple and Tibbe keys. It’s battery-powered and includes a handle for remote key cutting.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 9-23/32 in. (w) x 11-7/64 in. (d) x 13-63/64 in. (h)
• Weight: 30.9 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr.

Edge

CONDOR XC-009

The CONDOR XC-009 can duplicate edge (automotive or residential/commercial) keys. It’s battery-powered and includes a handle for remote key cutting.

• Operation: Semi-automatic
• Dimensions: 11-15/64 in. (w) x 6-57/64 in. (d) x 7-7/8 in. (h)
• Weight: 23.8 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr.

Laser

CONDOR XC-002

The CONDOR XC-002 can duplicate laser and dimple keys.

• Operation: Manual
• Dimensions: 17-17/32 in. (w) x 11-47/64 in. (d) x 20-43/64 in. (h)
• Weight: 50.7 lbs.
• Warranty: 1 yr.

More info: www.americankeysupply.com, mwkeyless.org