While picking up the parts to fix my front door the other day I ran across this SmartKey system from Kwikset in the big-box lock isle. Here’s how it works, in case you’re (like me) lucky enough to avoid re-keys for the last half-a-decade or so: To re-key the lock, you simply insert the current key, turn it a 1/4 turn, insert the SmartKey tool, and rotate it back. Blam. The lock’s now matched to the new key.
It sounds convenient as hell. But I can’t help but wonder how secure the system is — and whether or not a maid or buddy with one of the SmartKey tools couldn’t easily jack your lock. Any locksmiths out there who could weigh in with some experienced info?
The website suggests (predictably, I guess) that security isn’t an issue because in order to re-key the lock you need both a working key AND a the SmartKey tool. If you lose all the keys, you have to take the lock back to an authorized locksmith who sticks the thing in a cradle that resets it to accept a new key.
Besides that, the SmartKey locks incorporate all the modern mods including anti-bumping tech. What say you?
(P.S. Also, a funny note: When I was buying my parts at the big-box, the helpful lady gave me a weird look when she noticed that my parts were from a Kwikset lock. “Those are cheaper stuff, mostly found on mobile homes,” she said. She did, however, show my second-class-citizen ass over to the rack where I found my part. Go figure.)
SmartKey Re-Key Technology [Kwikset]