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Lock Picking Tools Explained: Picks, Tension Wrenches & Advanced Sets

  Lock picking is one of the most essential skills every professional locksmith must master. Whether you’re handling a residential lockout, servicing commercial hardware, or opening automotive doors, having the right lock picking tools can make all the difference between a quick job and a complicated one. In this complete guide, we’ll break down lock picks, tension wrenches, and advanced lock pick sets—how they work, when to use them, and why professional locksmiths rely on high-quality tools from clkupplies.com. What Are Lock Picking Tools? Lock picking tools are specialized instruments used by locksmiths to manipulate the internal components of a lock and open it without a key. These tools come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each designed for a specific technique or lock type. The three primary categories you need to understand are: Lock picks Tension wrenches Advanced lock pick sets Understanding each tool—and how it works—helps locksmiths perform faster, safer, and mo...

How to Use a VATS Bypass Module Kit: Step-by-Step Instructions for Beginners

If you're working on older GM vehicles — especially models equipped with VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) or Passkey I/II — you’ve likely faced no-start issues, broken ignition wiring, or lost VATS keys. For beginners, one of the most effective (and affordable) solutions is using a VATS Bypass Module Kit. In this beginner-friendly guide, you’ll learn what a VATS bypass kit does, when to use it, and step-by-step instructions to install it safely. You’ll also discover why professional locksmiths trust clksupplies.com for high-quality VATS tools, key readers, and GM ignition repair supplies. What Is a VATS Bypass Module Kit? A VATS Bypass Module Kit is a tool designed to bypass GM’s factory anti-theft system by simulating the correct key resistor value so the vehicle can start normally. It’s commonly used when: The customer loses their VATS key The resistor pellet in the key is worn out Ignition cylinder wiring breaks inside the steering column The VATS reader stops de...

What Is a Lock Box? Complete Guide for Locksmiths

In the world of security and key management, few tools are as widely used — yet often misunderstood — as the lock box. Whether you’re a professional locksmith, real estate agent, property manager, or homeowner, lock boxes play an essential role in secure key storage and controlled access. As a locksmith, understanding what a lock box is, how it works, the different types available, and when to recommend one to clients can help you expand your services and offer better security solutions. In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about lock boxes, plus the best place to buy high-quality lock boxes: clksupplies.com. What Is a Lock Box? A lock box is a secure, compact storage device designed to hold keys, access cards, documents, or small valuables. It can be mounted or portable and typically uses a combination code, key lock, or smart lock mechanism to restrict access. Lock boxes are widely used in: Residential homes Real estate properties Airbnb and v...

What Is a VATS Bypass Module? Complete Guide for Automotive Locksmiths

If you regularly service older GM vehicles, you’ve likely encountered the Vehicle Anti-Theft System (VATS) — a security feature that was ahead of its time but now leads to frequent no-start problems, key failures, and frustrated customers. This is where the VATS Bypass Module Kit becomes a must-have tool for automotive locksmiths and ignition repair specialists. In this complete guide, you’ll learn what a VATS bypass module kit is, how it works, why locksmiths use it, and why professionals trust suppliers such as CLKSupplies.com for reliable ignition tools and GM key solutions. What Is a VATS Bypass Module? A VATS Bypass Module is a specialized tool used to bypass the Vehicle Anti-Theft System on GM vehicles equipped with a VATS or Passkey I/II ignition system. These systems use resistor-encoded keys, and when the resistor value isn’t read correctly, the vehicle’s computer disables the starter or fuel system, preventing the car from starting. A VATS bypass module kit helps by: ...

How to Calibrate and Maintain Your Key Cutting Machine for Long-Term Use

Introduction In the locksmith industry, precision is everything. A single misalignment or dull blade can turn a perfect key into a useless piece of metal. That’s why proper calibration and maintenance of your key cutting machine are essential to keeping your locksmith business efficient, accurate, and profitable. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your locksmith journey, understanding how to maintain your key cutting equipment can save you time, money, and frustration. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to calibrate and maintain your key cutting machine for long-term accuracy — and show you why CLKSupplies.com is the best source for quality key cutting tools, parts, and accessories. Why Calibration Matters in Key Cutting Machines Every key cutting machine — whether manual, semi-automatic, or electronic — relies on precise calibration to duplicate keys accurately. Over time, constant use causes minor misalignments in the cutting carriage, tracer, or gu...

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Key Cutting Machine

Introduction For every locksmith—whether a beginner or a seasoned professional—mastering the key cutting machine is essential for precision, speed, and customer satisfaction. However, even the best locksmiths can make mistakes that lead to misaligned cuts, wasted key blanks, or even machine damage. Learning how to properly use and maintain a key cutting machine can significantly improve accuracy and extend the lifespan of your equipment. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 5 mistakes to avoid when using a key cutting machine and how you can prevent them with the right tools, training, and supplies from CLK Supplies — your trusted source for professional locksmith equipment. 1. Ignoring Machine Calibration and Alignment One of the most common and costly mistakes is failing to calibrate your key cutting machine . Even slight misalignments can cause duplicate keys to be off by fractions of a millimeter—enough to make them unusable. Why Calibration Matters A key cutting machine re...

What Is The Difference Between Key Cutting And Key Programming?

  Introduction In the locksmithing world, few terms cause more confusion than key programming and key cutting. Although both are essential services offered by locksmiths, they are entirely different processes that serve distinct purposes. While key cutting focuses on shaping a physical key to fit a lock, key programming deals with syncing a digital chip inside a key with a vehicle’s electronic system. Both require skill, precision, and the right tools. In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the differences between key programming and key cutting, explore how each process works, and highlight why professionals rely on CLK Supplies for their locksmith tools, key machines, and programming equipment. What Is Key Cutting? Key cutting is the traditional process of duplicating or creating a physical key that matches the exact shape and pattern of a specific lock. It’s one of the oldest and most essential locksmithing skills — still in high demand even with today’s...