AboutJames Expertise I am knowledgeable in almost every area of Locksmithing. This includes locks, keys, lost keys, residential and commercial lockouts, rekeying, masterkeying, high security locks, access control, electric locks, security cameras and home safety. I have been running an online business since 2004 where I sell all types of lock and security hardware to everyone from apartment renters to business owners to the US government. Before that I started a locksmith service in 1999. I deal with many types of security equipment including high security safe locks, heavy duty padlocks, exit devices, biometric readers, electric strikes, magnetic locks, full surface hinges and I only sell what I personally stand behind 100%. The online business has given me a more in-depth look at the locksmithing industry, helping me to learn more about each and every product that I offer, as well as products I don't have but end up finding for customers to solve any issues they have with security or door hardware.
Please don't submit any automotive or safe questions as these aren't areas that I can help in.
Experience I have been Locksmithing since 1999 and own my own Locksmithing business. I have many years of hands-on experience through the many services I have performed for my customers. I've run my business the way I wanted, treating everyone as I would like to be treated and knowing that any customer could be my last if I didn't perform my locksmithing duties as I had promised.
Organizations Montana Locksmith Association
Education/Credentials I have a diploma in Masterkeying, Advanced Locksmithing & Locksmithing from Foley-Belsaw.
Past/Present Clients US government, colleges, schools, city and state governments, large and small corporations, home owners.
Question I have a cedar chest that is about 100 years old. It is locked and the key has been misplaced. I want to get into it without destroying it. The lock has a pin that accepts a key with a hole drilled down the center of the shaft. I have obtained a skeleton key and have done some filing and modifications to the key. I have the key to the point where it will turn 360 degrees clockwise and counter clockwise. When it turns you can hear parts in the lock moving. The noises coming from the lock sound like they used to when we unlocked it. However, the lock will not open. Any assistance would be appreciated. John
Answer Hello John,
Congratulations on filing the key to the point of it almost working. Most people don't understand how those locks work and wouldn't have a clue how to do that.
Try contacting a locksmith in your area and see if they have any National D8890 keys. That may or may not work. Otherwise you'll have to hire a locksmith to make a key and not just any locksmith can do it so you'll have to find one that can deal with barrel keys.
