What really is a Locksmith?

OK, so this might be basic for some of you but you would be surprised how many times we get asked the question, “What exactly is a locksmith?”  So here is a bit more detail about what they are and what they’re all about.  If you have a different definition or some more great examples or analogies, leave us a comment…

According to Wikipedia, here is their description of a Locksmith:

Locksmithing began as the science and art of making and defeating locks. A lock is a mechanism that secures buildings, rooms, cabinets, objects, or other storage facilities. A key is often used to open a lock. Means of opening a lock may include a security token or two-factor authentication for greater security, such as requiring both something you know (a combination) and something you have (a key or keycard).

I loved the phrase “defeating” the lock – how appropriate.  Based on our experience, our locksmith have a pretty high percentage for getting a lock open.  There are certainly those out there that can stump you for a bit but generally speaking, there isn’t a lock that can’t be opened, it just might take some serious time and equipment.  The other key part is that Locksmithing “is the assembly and designing of locks and their respective keys.”

So the basic concept is pretty straight forward, but as with most things, it is all about the execution.  For example, if a locksmith shows up with a large pair of pliers in one hand and a new lock to sell you in the other hand, be wary.  Most of the time our locksmiths can open a lock without destroying it and making you spend the money for a new one.  Sometimes they can’t, but this shouldn’t be the first solution.  Also, many times the lock is “marked up” significantly over what you could buy it for from a store – so again, know who you are dealing with and how they make their money.

There are also big differences in locksmith in regard to quality.  Of course they should be with a company that is bonded and insured, but how do you know about their reputation.  If all they have is a number listed in the Yellow Pages, you might be getting what you pay for – someone operating out of their truck waiting for their cell phone to ring.  Our recommendation is to check them out – get the names of some of their customers and their backgrounds.  In the end, it will cost you a lot less to work with a well-trained, experienced, and reliable locksmith than the ones that appear to be “inexpensive” on the front end.  I hope this helps – it is always nice to learn what others say what you do…