Evolution of Locksmiths

The occupation of locksmiths has evolved considerably over the years. This occupation is a perfect combination of art and science. 

In the centuries gone by, the art of designing locks and keys was a mysterious business and the trade passed within the families of locksmiths from generation to generation. People having keen interest in history point out that the first lock was designed over 4,000 years ago in Egypt. Security requirements made the business come under the influence of science and technology and we have very sophisticated gadgets today that go up for sale as locks. All places, residential, commercial, industrial or any other make use of the latest security systems to keep their belongings under secure locking conditions that do not allow a single compromise on standards.

Locksmiths of the yore actually made the lock mechanism, toiling for hours, doing much filing work to saw the levers that ensure security when the lock is operated. Today, due to mass production of locks only a few expert locksmiths work as engineers and take up lock-making work. Most locks are repaired by replacing the parts or are upgraded. Safes and strong-rooms of institutions like banks need impregnable containers and to this day large safety vaults are custom made and built at a huge cost. That which keeps these things more unique is the security concern and the most important need to prevent the manufacture of duplicate keys that can open them easily.

After mass production methods came into vogue, the craft broke into two distinct groups, lock makers and lock repairers. The term "locksmith" has come to refer to the service man rather than the manufacturer of locks. Anybody who has good experience in security and ample knowledge on locks and keys can start his own business.

We find quite a number of retail stores offering to fit keys to automobiles to help owners who have lost them. Houses and offices are also sometimes in need of locksmith help to develop higher quality locks and management of access. Most locksmiths have taken up electronic lock servicing, such as making keys for transponder equipped vehicles and access control systems protecting individuals and assets of many large institutions.

A locksmith is duty bound to develop appropriate combinations of equipment and practices to create "security layers" which totally keep off an intruder or attacker. Additional skills and tools come at an expense to the customer who is ready to accept the price because it is a “now or never” opportunity to safeguard his property using the locks.

Locksmiths may have their own workshops, or be mobile (using a vehicle), or be employed by an institution, or even by an investigating agency (forensic locksmiths). He or she may specialize in one aspect of the skill, such as an automotive lock specialist, a master key system specialist or a safe technician.

Locksmiths have different levels and areas of specialization. Some locksmiths are adept to operate in emergency situations while others might be performing ordinary tasks, which are important nevertheless. Whatever be the level of specialization, they are required to have licenses for either taking employment or starting their own business.