Key machines are an obvious and essential locksmithing tool and a major investment in your business. Shopping for one can be an overwhelming experience, particularly when you consider that around 100 models of key machines are on the market.

The first important thing to do when you shop for a key machine is to determine ahead of time what keys you’ll cut and in what amounts. It makes no sense, for example, to consider a key machine that cuts only edge-cut keys if you’re an automotive locksmith, because most vehicles these days require a laser cutter — if they even require a key at all.

Do your research, checking out the machine manufacturers’ online library for technical information and helpful videos of their machines in action. Also consult with multiple locksmith distributors for their expertise. Technical support should be available through both the manufacturer and the distributor.

Our comprehensive Key Machine Encyclopedia articles (www.locksmithledger.com/53079815 and www.locksmithledger.com/1247894) from 2023 provide a great overview of automatic, semi-automatic and manual machines on the market. Here are a few new options introduced in 2024.

Ilco Swift 2.0

Based on the existing Swift Plus platform, the all-new Swift 2.0 introduces a fresh aesthetic appearance and an enhanced carriage design that enables smoother operation for users. Lightweight and compact, this model is ideal for mobile use or environments with limited counter space, making it the perfect entry-level mechanical key cutting machine for duplicating laser, dimple, and tubular keys.

Features include:

• Improved carriage design resulting in a better overall user experience during the duplication process.
• HSS tin coated cutters for longevity.
• Easily replace cutter side jaws.
• Master safety switch with separate cutter motor switch.
• Built in accessory tray on top of hood.
• Quick calibration of Z-axis for laser keys using calibration bars.
• Spring- loaded tracer point and nickel-plated adjustment ring provides accurate calibration for dimple keys.
• Led lighting illuminates work area.
• Safety shield.
• Ergonomic grips and ergonomically designed levers provide user comfort and control.

Ilco Engrave It Pro XL

The Engrave-It Pro XL is the new extra-large engraver for engraving keys, lock cylinders, padlocks, ID plates/tags and more. The Engrave-It Pro XL is a simple-to-operate engraving solution that provides coverage of a broad range of items in both the lock shop and institutional environment. This machine provides the maximum capacity needed for marking keys, lock cylinders (including IC), padlocks, ID plates/tags, laminated plates/tags, and much more!

Watch a training video at https://youtu.be/YQyMJSA7tn4

Features include:

• Sequential numbering
• Custom lettering for marking keys, popular lock cylinders, and many other items.
• Extra-large holder for increased capacity of up to 40 keys.
• Capable of “fine” engraving for presentation plaques, etc.
• Variety of fonts and marking styles
• Clamping options provided to secure items being engraved.
• New V-Touch multi-functional touchscreen
• Red laser pointer for easy job set-up 
• Vision Pro 10 “Expert” software package

The machine weighs 45 pounds and runs with the Vision Expert 10 software package on a customer-supplied PC.

Ilco Engrave It Touch

 Similarly, the Engrave-It Touch provides a streamlined engraving option for your customers, whether you operate a locksmith business or a retail store. It offers extensive coverage for engraving keys, pet tags, luggage tags, brass ID plates, and more.

Features include:

• 10.1” touch screen enables effortless viewing and swift navigation through prompts
• Integrated bar code reader
• Signature engraving capabilities
• LED light ensures a clear view of the engraving process
• Angled acrylic window allows for easy viewing inside the machine
• Compact design of the device creates a more efficient workspace environment
• User-friendly software interface
• Includes 3 popular and versatile holders for keys, luggage/ID tags, and pet tags

This smaller-sized engraving machine weighs 24 pounds.

JMA Nomad Go

The new JMA NOMAD semi-automatic key duplicating machine offers a compact design with the mobile locksmith in mind, light and easy to carry. It's the ideal solution for van set up and mobile locksmith professionals.

Features include:

• 4-Way Jaws and Ergonomical Clamps. High-quality steel jaws for precision cutting. Four-way jaws allow greater ease and reliability in the clamping of the keys.
• Fluid Movement of the Carriage. The carriage offers smooth wheel movements which facilitates duplication and reduces the force needed to operate the machine.
• Micrometric Adjustment. This calibration system allows an exact adjustment of the tracer and guarantees cut precision.
• Nylon Abrasive Brush. It helps you achieve the perfect finish of the duplicate key.In addition, being made of nylon prevents the operator from suffering accidental cuts while working with the machine.
• Work Safety. The NOMAD includes a safety mechanism that shuts down the machine in case of power loss. When power is restored, the machine must be switched on manually to resume operation.

Black Widow Enhancements

In addition to American Key Supply’s Black Widow Version 2, the Black Widow Deluxe package is now available with both automotive and commercial software unlocked. Also exclusive to the deluxe package is the S2 Jaw, Android Tablet and stand, and the mobile countertop mounting kit. 

Some key features:

• ·    All-in-One Jaws. Includes a single, patented, 4-way "S1" jaw for almost all automotive keys, high security and edge-cut. Use the optional 2-way "S2" jaw for single-sided or double-sided edge-cut keys. No extra adapters or jaws to buy and swap like most other machines require.
• Onboard Tool storage.
• Favorites menu (included in the Black Widow mobile app) gives locksmiths the fastest way to find keys quickly, as well as a Cut History screen that chronologically shows all of the work you've done in the past, including key types, key cuts, and searchable notes.
• U.S-based product development, technical support, and repairs.
  
  Another interesting feature is the ability to decode by photo. Take a picture of your key with your mobile device and visually decode it yourself. This is especially useful when you need to decode non-conductive keys (ex: aluminum or plastic) or when dealing with extremely worn keys. {Note that this is a feature that wouldn't be possible on machines that have integrated touchscreens.)

Framon #2 Update

The legendary Framon #2 Manual Code Machine has received something of a makeover. Now, with a stunning anodized blue finish, it’s got a sleek new look that matches its performance. It’s everything you need in one package to get perfect results.

Tthe Framon #2 empowers users to originate nearly any cylinder key currently in use. Its extensive capabilities cover a wide array of keys, including standard cylinder, domestic and foreign automotive, motorcycle, padlock, letterbox, safety deposit box, interchangeable core, and high-security keys. The machine’s core, the Framon Depth & Space Manual, contains over 900 cylinder key charts, letterbox charts, and safety deposit box charts, providing comprehensive cutting capabilities. Framon’s Genericode software is also included with every #2 purchase

All the parts, controls and functionalities remain the same. The machine is sporting a new paint job and some blue anodizing.