What does a Locksmith do?

Locksmithing is one of the oldest professions in the world, dating back approximately 4000 years. It's origins can be traced back to ancient Egypt, and rumour has it Pharaoh Khafre (the one whose face is on the Sphynx) had a keen interest in locksmithing. Well, if it was good enough for the Pharaoh...

While locksmithing in Egypt was fairly primitive, it developed through the ages, and locksmiths were expected to deal with different types of locks, keys and safes. In the modern era locksmithing and security inevitably intertwine, and practicing locksmiths can expect to deal with modern security systems, vehicle keys and commercial security.

Although we rarely stop and think about it, modern society will be impossible without the comforts of security that we've gotten so used to. Based on this, we can perhaps think of locksmiths as sort of guardians to communal peace.

Here are the typical tasks a locksmith might be expected to perform.

Cut keys

A major part of the locksmith profession is cutting keys for different types of locks. These can be regular household keys, security keys or restricted keys.

Security safes maintenance.

If you wish to install a security safe in your property you would need a locksmith. They can help with finding the best place for it, supply trusted brands and fit the safe professionally. In case you forgot the combination locksmiths are also capable of opening the safe and repairing it, if damage was inflicted.

Electronic security systems

While electronic gates are normally opened using some kind of access pass card or PIN number, they are still maintained by locksmiths. There are locksmiths who specialise in commercial security and access control systems

Vehicle locks and keys

Auto locksmith services are harder to find but there are definitely out there. Forgetting your keys inside and closing the door is not an uncommon situation at all.

Window and door lock maintenance

This is the day-to-day routine for a regular domestic locksmith. If not cutting keys, a locksmith is most likely to be picking or fitting door and window locks. Due to the nature of the job, some locksmiths provide a 24-hour service, although they might be charging higher rates for out-of-hours call-outs.

Did you know that...?

The locksmith who originally installed the locks in a new building is likely to remain the resident locksmith on call because they're already familiar with the project. In many cases they might even be asked to keep a spare set of keys to ease gaining access to the properties. This is why securing a big building project can be a priority for many locksmiths.

If you want to be a locksmith you don't need any specific education. Just an open and curious mind, with a passion for solving puzzles and a lot of patience. Locksmiths need to be naturally inclined towards constant learning as security innovations are evolving each year. Dedication, discretion and self-motivation are also excellent qualities for a future locksmith.