How can I get a copy of my key without the original?

• <div><p>If you don’t have your original key, the easiest way to obtain a copy is to call a locksmith. For house keys, your locksmith has several options for configuring a new key: </p><ul><li><p>They can input a lock’s identification code into a database to obtain key-cutting instructions.</p></li><li><p>They could analyze the lock cylinder to determine how to cut a new key.</p></li><li><p>They can create an impression of the lock cylinder from which to cut a new key. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Can you cut a door knob off?

• <div><p>You can cut a door knob off using a sawzall, but you risk causing additional damage to the door itself. You’ll also need to completely replace the door knob, costing you extra money and another trip to the hardware store.</p></div>

Get matched with top locksmiths in Mount Sterling, IL

Q: How can I get a copy of my key without the original?

• <div><p>If you don&rsquo;t have your original key, the easiest way to obtain a copy is to call a locksmith. For house keys, your locksmith has several options for configuring a new key: </p><ul><li><p>They can input a lock&rsquo;s identification code into a database to obtain key-cutting instructions.</p></li><li><p>They could analyze the lock cylinder to determine how to cut a new key.</p></li><li><p>They can create an impression of the lock cylinder from which to cut a new key. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Q: Why might I need to reset a door lock?

• <div><p>You might want to change a door lock entry code for a handful of reasons. The most common answers are extra security or a forgotten code. You may also find yourself in a position where you need to temporarily change the code to allow a guest to come and go freely but want to switch it back once things return to normal. </p></div>

Q: How long does it take to copy a key?

• <div><p>When you take a key to a hardware store or a locksmith for copying, you can expect the key-cutting process to take as little as 30 seconds. The key copier will review your current key to decide on the correct blank. Then, your original key and the blank are inserted into a key duplication machine to cut an exact key copy. When it&rsquo;s all said and done, you can have a new key in your hand in just a couple of minutes.</p></div>

Q: Can someone hack a smart lock?

• <div><p>As with any computer, smart locks can be hacked by someone with the technical skills to do so, but most people do not have that ability, making smart locks relatively safe. If you have any concerns about a compromised smart lock, opt for an encrypted smart lock, change your Wi-Fi password, and make sure that you only give out your password to trusted family and friends. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Locksmith Service pros in Mount Sterling, IL

*The Angi rating for Locksmith Service companies in Mount Sterling, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Locksmith Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Locksmith Service companies in Mount Sterling, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Locksmith Service needs.

Last update on November 19, 2025

Reviewed in November 2025
We had a vision of what we wanted our kitchen and sunroom to look like. Jay delivered that vision. We discussed our vision with him and he was on board to make it a reality. He totally understood our vision. He offered great ideas. The ending result was everything we dreamed of plus more....
Lincoln Land Handyman
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Reviewed in December 2022
This company is very easy to work with. The office staff is very friendly and professional. Orion, is very easy to work with and does a great job. His employees are, also, easy to work with. Would, definitely, recommend this company.
Southern Painting Solutions
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Reviewed in August 2021
He was very easy to work with. He saw the vision of what was needed and did it to perfection. He is very fair with his estimate and stayed with price quoted. Ask several times durning job if it was to our satisfaction and he also did a couple of other things that were not on his list but made...
Moore Excavation
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Reviewed in October 2020
Professional did a outstanding job clean highly recommended them
Fix It Phillips Construction
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Reviewed in August 2020
From estimate to repair excellent service and satisfaction. It was awesome our on-site inspection was same day as our call and we received our estimate next day. And was even available to answer our questions before and during repairs. We had a tree fall on our house that caused fractures down...
Midwest Tuckpointing Pros LLC
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Reviewed in February 2015
This past saturday my computer crashed and I thought for sure i'd lost all my pics and work files. So I called a few places and these guys were the only ones willing/able to come out to my house that day. (it was Saturday) They came out and hooked my computer up to this screen thing and then...
Corner Store Computer Services
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Reviewed in June 2013
Les came to the house on a Saturday, just a couple days after I called, and fixed the leak that day.
Follis Welty Roofers
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Reviewed in January 2012
I went through the worst experience with these people. They came out 3 times to fix a plumbing problem, didn't fix the problem, couldn't tell us what the problem actually was and then tried to charge more than triple the hours they worked. The most annoying thing was that they would work and...
DAVIS ELECTRIC PLUMBING HTG AND COOLING
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Reviewed in March 2009
Very good prompt curteous service. Prices were competitive and the job was well done. One little glitch with security system.
Angler Home Repair
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Find Locksmiths in Mount Sterling

Serving Mount Sterling, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"Choice responded quickly but the insurance plan does not pay for all doors to be re-keyed unless you have very few locks. The number of locks covered by the insurance is determined by keyholes, not doors! (Read your policy!) You will likely have to shell out some money to have this essential new-home service if you have more than four keyholes. The locksmith they called was EXCELLENT and made all our locks completely functional. We will happily hire the locksmith again (R.L Locksmith LLC). We paid $201.81 (plus another $50 for some door re-alignment not included in the re-keying benefit) and Choice paid $100 for the job."

Recommended by82%of homeowners

Serving Mount Sterling, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 2020

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity, and treats your home as if it were our own. We specialize in Vinyl Replacement Windows, Aluminum Gutter Installation and Repair, as well as Vinyl Siding. Our services are customized to the individual project, paying close attention to the details of each project that we're involved with. We look forward to building long-term relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!

Response time1 day

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Locksmiths questions, answered by experts

If you don’t have your original key, the easiest way to obtain a copy is to call a locksmith. For house keys, your locksmith has several options for configuring a new key:

They can input a lock’s identification code into a database to obtain key-cutting instructions.
They could analyze the lock cylinder to determine how to cut a new key.
They can create an impression of the lock cylinder from which to cut a new key.

You might want to change a door lock entry code for a handful of reasons. The most common answers are extra security or a forgotten code. You may also find yourself in a position where you need to temporarily change the code to allow a guest to come and go freely but want to switch it back once things return to normal.

When you take a key to a hardware store or a locksmith for copying, you can expect the key-cutting process to take as little as 30 seconds. The key copier will review your current key to decide on the correct blank. Then, your original key and the blank are inserted into a key duplication machine to cut an exact key copy. When it’s all said and done, you can have a new key in your hand in just a couple of minutes.

You can cut a door knob off using a sawzall, but you risk causing additional damage to the door itself. You’ll also need to completely replace the door knob, costing you extra money and another trip to the hardware store.

As with any computer, smart locks can be hacked by someone with the technical skills to do so, but most people do not have that ability, making smart locks relatively safe. If you have any concerns about a compromised smart lock, opt for an encrypted smart lock, change your Wi-Fi password, and make sure that you only give out your password to trusted family and friends.

The Mount Sterling, IL homeowners’ guide to locksmith services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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