Tried to be too clever ...

I believe that locksmiths in the trade have tricks (or perhaps tools) for getting them apart without this happening, so that they can make a key using the pins as the reference instead of a key.

I've had a locksmith transfer the tumblers between locks, to generate a set of different types of locks keyed alike. It was a very long time ago though.

Talking of keyed alike, lock specialists can readily supply such things for cabinet locks, etc (just replaced a pair on my car "top box"). Also I've used Screwfix "keyed alike" padlocks a couple of times, and they seem to be very well made and reliable, particularly for "unbranded" padlocks.

Several times I've used a lock locksmith to make a set of locks keyed alike.

Last time (a year ago or so?) I went in with 5 locks. 3 he could do while I waited (to match the 1st) and the euro lock he had to order a special cylinder in as it was an unusual depth for a 5 pin lock.

He also cut me 2 more keys.

It's an amazing place - it looks like an explosion has happened. Everything is covered in pins and springs and random bits of metal :-) Fantastically chaotic looking place that seems to work incredibly well.

ACME locks and keys :-)

No connection, just a long term satisfied customer :)

Darren

aka "Pingfuckits".

They are called pingfuckits.

Or in polite company wheredigoes.

Which ever name you use, they certainly work well. :-)

My local bloke Blakes Security does similar. He has organiser cases full of tiny bits!

If you're in North London, these people seem pretty good. I produced the key to my M-I-L's Edwardian safe and without being told, he said "Old safe, right?" Then cut me a key for it.