 |
MALL STORE:
IMPRESSIONING TOOLS
The tools most often used in impressioning
keys are those that make up this Mall Store.
Impressioning is fast becoming a lost art. Old
time Locksmiths used it daily, and I know of several who even today create
first keys with a file instead of a code cutter. It is a technique
that is as basic to Locksmithing as lock picking, but because there are
so many ways to originate keys without using a file it is being ignored
more and more.
A good impressioner can prepare a key blank by running a fine file along
the edge of the blade a few times and then inserting the key blank into
the lock by hand, turning it slightly, and wriggling it up and down with
only the strength in his fingers. This of course is not the technique
taught to new Locksmiths as it requires a good deal of experience and wisdom
acquired through age.
The proper way to do Impressioning is to prepare the blank either by
running the file along the edge as stated above or by putting it in a code
cutting machine and skimming just a thousandth or so off the edge of the
blade. This leaves a pure, smooth surface. Some Locksmiths prefer
to file a V shape in the blade, leaving a knife-edge. Others swear
by the opposite plan . . . leaving a flattened surface along the edge.
The Impressioning file is used to deepen each station of the key after
the key is inserted into the lock with a pair of Impressiong pliers (usually
a common pair of Vise Grip pliers). The key is rocked up and down and
also subjected to a bit of turning pressure . . . more or less depending
upon individual technique and the level of difficulty the lock presents.
The art involved in impressioning is detecting and interpretting the
marks that are so acquired. When a mark is determined to be authentic,
the file is used to deepen the cut, shaping it so as to form sloping sides
so the key will not become trapped in the lock. The difficulty inherent
in this whole procedure is that the Locksmith has no way of knowing if he
has cut any one of the five or six stations too deep. That can only
be determined by continuing on until it becomes evident that all the stations
are near the maximum depths.
It is generally easier to impression wafer tumblers than pin tumblers,
so it makes sense to start by practicing on small desk or cabinet locks
that use wafer, or disk, tumblers.
