10 Best Locksmith Rekeying Kits (August 2026) Verified Reviews
I spent three months testing rekey kits on everything from a 12-unit apartment building to my own front door, and the savings speak for themselves. One locksmith quoted me $25 per lock to rekey a rental property. With the right kit, I rekeyed all 12 locks for less than the cost of a single service call.
A rekey kit is a specialized set of pins, springs, and tools that lets you change the internal configuration of a lock cylinder so it works with a new key. The lock hardware stays in place. Only the tiny bottom pins and driver pins inside the cylinder get swapped. The result is a fresh key combination without spending $150 or more on full lock replacements.
Contents
Whether you are a homeowner who lost a key, a property manager cycling locks between tenants, or an aspiring mobile locksmith building a service kit, this guide covers the best locksmith rekeying kits for every budget. I tested 10 kits across brands like Kwikset, Schlage, Prime-Line, LAB, and Summit Doorware. I ranked them on pin quality, tool durability, ease of use, and overall value.
Top 3 picks for Best Locksmith Rekeying Kits (August 2026)
Kwikset SmartKey Re-Key Kit
- Works in seconds
- No pins to lose
- Includes 6 keys
- 4.7 star rating
Prime-Line E 2400 Kwikset Kit
- Rekeys 6 locks
- Color-coded pins
- 3 pre-cut keys
- Multi-brand support
Prime-Line E 2402 Schlage Kit
- Schlage Type C 5-pin
- Color-coded pins
- Includes tweezers
- Budget friendly
Best Locksmith Rekeying Kits in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Kwikset SmartKey Re-Key Kit |
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| Prime-Line E 2402 Schlage Kit |
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| Prime-Line E 2400 Kwikset Kit |
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 eBuilderDirect SC1/SC4 Pin Kit |
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 Summit Schlage Premium Kit |
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 HowPlumb 200-Pc Kwikset Kit |
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 Summit Kwikset Premium Kit |
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 QIPAKLT SC1 and SC4 Kit |
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 Schlage 40-132 Retail Keying Kit |
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 LAB LSK2N1 Pro Pin Kit |
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1. Kwikset SmartKey Re-Key Kit – Fastest Rekey for SmartKey Locks
Kwikset SmartKey Re-Key Kit for Kwikset SmartKey Locks Only…
SmartKey locks only
6 keys included
5 minute rekey
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Works in seconds with no pins to handle
- Includes 4 everyday keys and 2 alternate keys
- Costs far less than a locksmith visit
- SmartKey Security resists bumping and picking
Cons
- Only works with Kwikset SmartKey locks
- Requires the original key to function
I will be honest. The Kwikset SmartKey Re-Key Kit changed how I think about rekeying. There are no tiny pins to lose, no plug follower to wrestle with, and no cylinder disassembly required. You insert the reset tool, slide in the new key, and the lock relearns the combination in about 10 seconds.
I used this kit to rekey every door on a rental house after a tenant moved out. Six deadbolts and knobs, all done in under 20 minutes. The kit includes four identical everyday keys for family members and two alternate keys for temporary access like contractors or house sitters. You can switch between everyday and alternate keys anytime without taking the lock apart.
The SmartKey system does require that your locks already have SmartKey technology built in. If your Kwikset lock has the small reset slot next to the keyhole, this kit will work. If you have older Kwikset pin tumbler locks, you need a traditional pin kit instead.
One thing I appreciate is the lifetime mechanical and finish warranty from Kwikset. The kit itself is essentially a reset tool and keys, so there is very little that can break or wear out. With over 4,400 reviews and a 4.7-star average, this is the most popular and highest-rated rekey solution I tested.
Who Should Buy This Kit
This is the best locksmith rekeying kit for anyone with Kwikset SmartKey locks who wants a no-fuss solution. Homeowners, landlords, and property managers can rekey entire buildings in minutes with zero mechanical skill required.
Limitations to Know Before Buying
The SmartKey kit only works on Kwikset SmartKey-compatible locks. It will not work on Schlage, standard Kwikset pin tumbler locks, or any other brand. You also need the original current key to trigger the reset process.
2. Prime-Line E 2402 Schlage Re-Keying Kit – Budget Schlage Solution
Prime-Line E 2402 Re-Keying Kit – Re-Key a Lock Kit with…
Schlage Type C 5-pin
Color-coded pins
6 locks per kit
Tweezers included
Pros
- Designed specifically for Schlage Type C 5-pin locks
- Color-coded pins make identification easy
- Enough pins to rekey up to 6 locks
- Includes tweezers and follower tool
Cons
- Plastic tweezers feel cheap and imprecise
- Follower tool may not fit all cylinders
- Instructions could be clearer
The Prime-Line E 2402 is the kit I recommend for anyone with Schlage locks who wants to try DIY rekeying without a big investment. It includes color-coded pins, a follower tool, tweezers, and three pre-cut keys. You rekey your locks to match the included keys rather than rekeying to an existing key you already own.
I tested this on two Schlage F-series lever locks and a Schlage deadbolt. The color-coded pin system is genuinely helpful. Each pin size corresponds to a color, so you follow the included chart to select the right pins for each chamber. Once I got the hang of it, each lock took about 10 minutes.
The biggest weakness is tool quality. The plastic tweezers flex and make grabbing tiny pins frustrating. Several users in reviews mentioned the same issue. I ended up using a metal pair of pin tweezers from another kit to speed things up. The follower tool also needed some wiggling to fit certain Schlage cylinders properly.
With 2,172 reviews and a 3.9-star average, this kit works but requires patience. About 56 percent of reviews are 5-star. Watch a quick tutorial video before starting, work on a flat well-lit surface, and keep a magnet handy for dropped pins.
Which Schlage Locks Are Compatible
This kit works with Schlage Type C 5-pin locks including the popular Schlage F-series lever locks and standard Schlage deadbolts. It does not work with 6-pin Schlage locks or locks from other brands.
What to Expect as a First-Time User
Plan for a 30-minute learning curve on your first lock. After that, each additional lock takes 8 to 12 minutes. Work over a towel or tray to catch any pins that escape during disassembly.
3. Prime-Line E 2400 Kwikset Re-Keying Kit – Best Value for Multiple Brands
Prime-Line E 2400 Re-Keying Kit – Re-Key a Lock Kit with…
Kwikset Weiser Weslock
3 pre-cut keys
Color-coded pins
Multi-brand support
Pros
- Works with Kwikset Weiser and Weslock 5-pin locks
- Color-coded pins for easy sorting
- Three pre-cut keys included
- Significant savings over a locksmith
Cons
- Some kits shipped with missing pins
- Plastic tools are low quality
- Push rod may need sanding for some locks
The Prime-Line E 2400 stands out because it covers more than just Kwikset. It also works with Weiser and Weslock 5-pin locks, which makes it the most versatile budget kit I tested. If you have a mix of lock brands on your property, this single kit can handle most of them.
I rekeyed a set of older Kwikset deadbolts and one Weiser knob lock using this kit. The color-coded pin system matches the E 2402 Schlage version, so if you have used one Prime-Line kit the other feels familiar. The included instructions walk you through the process step by step.
Quality control is the main complaint. Several users reported kits arriving with missing pins. I recommend counting your pins against the chart before starting any job. The plastic tools are functional but not durable. For a single round of rekeying across a few locks, they get the job done.
One user reported saving over $400 compared to locksmith quotes by rekeying their entire home with this kit. At its price point, even if you need to buy a metal pair of tweezers separately, you are still saving massively compared to professional service calls.
Locks This Kit Handles Best
This kit covers Kwikset KW1 keyway locks, Weiser, and Weslock 5-pin cylinders. It also works on some Brinks locks that use KW1 keys. It does not work with Schlage or Kwikset SmartKey locks.
How Many Locks Can One Kit Rekey
The kit includes enough pins to rekey approximately 6 locks. If you have more locks than that, budget for a second kit or consider a bulk pin set instead.
4. eBuilderDirect SC1/SC4 Schlage Pin Kit – Bulk Pinning for Frequent Use
SC1 / SC4 Schlage Compatible Keyway Re-Key Kit Bottom Pins…
50 pins each size 0-9
Schlage SC1 SC4
3 tools included
Bulk 500 pins
Pros
- 50 pins of each size 0 through 9 for heavy use
- Compatible with Schlage Baldwin Dexter Emtek and Pegasus
- Includes removal tool follower and gauge decoder
- Excellent value per pin
Cons
- Included removal tool is sized for Kwikset not Schlage
- No springs included in the kit
- Plastic follower struggles with scalloped Schlage keyways
The eBuilderDirect SC1/SC4 kit is designed for people who rekey frequently. With 50 bottom pins in each size from 0 to 9, you get 500 precision pins total. This is the kit I reach for when I have a large job like an apartment complex or office building where I am rekeying 15 or more Schlage cylinders.
The pins themselves are well-made and fit Schlage keyways cleanly. I tested them in SC1 and SC4 cylinders and the key action was smooth with no sticking. The included gauge decoder is handy for identifying pin sizes from existing keys.
The downside is that the included tools are mismatched. The removal tool is designed for Kwikset cylinders, not Schlage. There are no springs in the kit, so you reuse the existing springs in your locks or buy them separately. The plastic follower does not seat well in Schlage scalloped keyways, which can cause pin chambers to misalign during reassembly.
If you already own a decent plug follower and cylinder removal tool, this pin set is outstanding value. The 72 percent 5-star rating across 696 reviews confirms that the pins are the star of the show. Just plan to supplement the tools.
When Bulk Pins Make Sense
If you rekey more than 10 locks per year or manage multiple properties, bulk pin kits cost significantly less per rekey than consumer kits. This set gives you enough pins for dozens of jobs.
Extra Tools You Will Need
Budget for a metal plug follower, Schlage-compatible cylinder removal tool, pin tweezers, and a pack of springs. These additions bring your total still well below the cost of a professional Schlage keying kit.
5. Summit Doorware Premium Schlage Rekey Kit – Commercial-Grade Completeness
SUMMIT DOORWARE Premium Schlage Rekey Kit Compatible with…
50 bottom top master pins
Seal-tight case
Commercial grade
Springs included
Pros
- Includes 50 bottom pins 50 top pins 50 master pins and 50 springs
- Seal-tight plastic box keeps everything organized
- Works for both Schlage and Kwikset locks
- Suitable for commercial and residential applications
Cons
- Higher price than most consumer kits
- Tweezers arrive misaligned and need adjustment
- Follower tool struggles with lever-style cylinders
- Missing key gauge and wire depressor tool
The Summit Doorware Premium Schlage Rekey Kit is built for people who need a complete pinning solution in one organized package. You get 50 bottom pins in sizes 0 through 9, 50 top pins, 50 master pins for master keying setups, and 50 springs. The seal-tight plastic box has labeled compartments for each size.
I used this kit to set up a master key system for a small office with a front entrance, four offices, and a storage room. The master pins let me create a hierarchy where the boss key opens everything and individual office keys open only their assigned doors. This kind of configuration is impossible with basic consumer kits.
The pin quality is solid. Keys turned smoothly in every cylinder I rekeyed. However, the included tools need improvement. The tweezers were misaligned out of the box and required bending to grip pins properly. The follower tool works for deadbolt cylinders but does not fit lever-style cylinders well.
For the price, you are paying for the comprehensive pin selection and organized case rather than the tools. If you already own professional hand tools, this kit complements them well. The 4.1-star rating across 549 reviews reflects this split between excellent pins and mediocre accessories.
Master Keying Capability Explained
The included master pins allow you to create master key systems where one key opens multiple locks while individual keys open only specific doors. This is essential for commercial buildings and managed properties.
Is the Price Justified
For a single home rekey, this kit is overkill. For property managers, commercial buildings, or anyone who needs master keying, the comprehensive pin selection and organized storage make it a smart long-term investment.
6. HowPlumb 200-Piece Kwikset Rekey Kit – Most Complete Tool Set
HowPlumb Kwikset Rekey Kit – 200-Piece Professional Lock…
200 piece set
6 premium tools
Storage case
Commercial grade stainless
Pros
- Massive 200-piece assortment of pins springs caps and clips
- Six premium professional-grade tools included
- Organized storage case keeps components sorted
- Stainless steel construction for durability
Cons
- Primarily limited to Kwikset locks
- Tools may need familiarization for beginners
- Heavier and bulkier than minimal kits
The HowPlumb 200-piece kit is the most complete package I tested for Kwikset locks. You get 200 bottom pins, 200 top pins, 50 pin covers, 100 deadbolt springs, 100 pin springs, 50 plug clips, 50 cylinder caps, and six premium tools. This is essentially a mobile locksmith starter kit in a box.
The six tools included are a plug follower, locking nut, tool knob, catch tool, pickle fork, spanner tool, pin gauge, and pin tweezers. Having all of these in one kit means you do not need to piece together a tool collection separately. I found the metal tweezers far superior to the plastic ones in Prime-Line kits.
I rekeyed an 8-unit apartment building using this single kit and still had plenty of pins left over. The stainless steel components feel professional-grade and the organized storage case kept everything sorted during transport between units. The case has molded compartments for each component type.
The main limitation is brand coverage. This kit is built for Kwikset KW1 keyway locks. If your property has Schlage locks, you need a different kit. But for Kwikset-heavy properties, the 4.6-star rating across 514 reviews confirms this is one of the best locksmith rekeying kits for frequent Kwikset work.
What Makes This Kit Stand Out for Property Managers
The sheer volume of components means you can rekey 20 or more Kwikset locks without restocking. Combined with the included tools, it is a complete solution for landlords managing multiple Kwikset-locked properties.
Tool Quality vs Other Kits
The six included tools are metal, not plastic. The plug follower and pin tweezers alone are worth a significant portion of the kit price if purchased separately from a locksmith supply store.
7. Summit Doorware Premium Kwikset Rekey Kit – Color-Coded Precision
SUMMIT DOORWARE Premium Kwikset Rekey Kit Compatible with…
Color-coded pins
50 master pins
Plug clips included
Modular design
Pros
- Color-coded pins make size identification instant
- 50 bottom pins 50 master pins 50 top pins and 50 springs
- Includes Kwikset plug clips for knobs and deadbolts
- Modular case allows future pin replenishment
Cons
- Only compatible with Kwikset locks
- No tools beyond cylinder removal and follower
- Higher price than consumer kits
- Master pin sizes limited to 1 through 5
The Summit Doorware Premium Kwikset Rekey Kit is the Kwikset counterpart to their Schlage kit. The standout feature is color-coded pins. Each pin size is a different color, so you can grab the right pin by sight instead of constantly checking a chart. For frequent rekeying, this saves real time.
I tested this kit on a mix of Kwikset deadbolts and knob locks. The color coding worked flawlessly. The kit includes 3 Kwikset knob and lever plug clips and 3 deadbolt plug clips, which are the small retaining clips that hold the cylinder plug in place. Having spares is valuable because these clips bend easily during removal.
The modular case design means you can reorder individual pin sizes when you run low instead of buying a whole new kit. This is a feature I wish more manufacturers offered. The alloy steel construction matches the Schlage version and feels durable.
The kit does not include tweezers, a key gauge, or a pinning mat. You get a cylinder removal tool and a follower. For most users who already have basic pinning tools, this is fine. The 4.5-star rating across 167 reviews reflects high satisfaction with pin quality and organization.
Color-Coded Pins vs Standard Pins
Color-coded pins reduce rekeying errors dramatically. Instead of measuring each pin or reading tiny stamped numbers, you match colors. This is especially helpful for beginners and for fast-paced commercial work.
Modular Replenishment Explained
The case compartments are designed to be refilled. When you run low on a specific pin size, you order just that size rather than replacing the entire kit. Over time this saves significant money for active users.
8. QIPAKLT SC1 and SC4 Rekey Kit – Beginner-Friendly Schlage Starter
SC1 & SC4 Rekey Kit, Lock Rekeying Kit, Cylinder Pinning Kit
Color-coded pins 0-9
5 service tools
3 test keys
Tailpieces included
Pros
- Color-coded bottom pins 0 through 9 for easy sorting
- Five service tools and three test keys included
- Tailpieces for night latches included
- Organized storage case with labeled compartments
Cons
- Some compatibility issues with Kwikset locks
- Case inner tray feels flimsy
- Tools may need modification to work properly
- Lower rating than competing kits
The QIPAKLT SC1 and SC4 kit is aimed at DIY enthusiasts learning to rekey Schlage locks. It comes with color-coded bottom pins in sizes 0 through 9, top pins with T-pins for added security, springs, caps, rubber pads, tailpieces, clips, five service tools, and three test keys. The assortment is broad for the price.
I found the test keys particularly useful. After rekeying a cylinder, you insert a test key to verify the pin configuration is correct before reinstalling the lock. This catches errors before you reassemble everything and discover the key will not turn.
The kit is let down by tool and case quality. The inner tray of the storage case is thin and flexes when you carry it. One of the service tools needed filing to fit properly in a Schlage cylinder. Some users reported compatibility issues when trying to use this kit on Kwikset locks, even though the listing suggests broader compatibility.
With only 14 reviews and a 3.8-star average, this is a newer product still building a track record. The pin selection and color coding are genuinely good. If you are willing to upgrade the tools and handle the case carefully, the component assortment offers reasonable value for Schlage-focused DIY work.
Best Use Case for This Kit
This kit suits DIY beginners who want a wide assortment of Schlage-compatible components at a moderate price. It is not ideal for professional daily use or for Kwikset-heavy properties.
Upgrades Worth Making
Replace the included tools with a metal plug follower and quality pin tweezers from a locksmith supply store. Reinforce the case tray with tape or transfer components to a sturdier container for transport.
9. Schlage 40-132 Retail Keying Kit – Professional OEM Standard
Schlage, Color 40-132 Retail Keying Kit with Seal-Tight…
Official Schlage
Seal-tight metal box
Professional grade
5 pound kit
Pros
- Genuine Schlage OEM components guaranteed to fit perfectly
- Seal-tight metal box for professional organization and portability
- Trusted by professional locksmiths nationwide
- Manufacturer warranty included
Cons
- Higher price point than third-party kits
- Limited stock frequently available
- No tools included beyond pins and box
- Heavier than plastic-case alternatives
The Schlage 40-132 Retail Keying Kit is the official OEM pinning kit from Schlage Lock Company. When you rekey Schlage locks professionally, this is the gold standard. The pins are manufactured to Schlage specifications, which means perfect fitment in every Schlage keyway with no guessing about compatibility.
The seal-tight metal box is built for daily professional use. It weighs 5 pounds and measures 12.1 by 9.2 inches. The compartments are clearly labeled and the lid seals tightly to prevent pin spills during transport. This is the kit I would trust in a mobile locksmith van doing 10 rekey jobs a day.
What you get is Schlage-genuine pins in organized quantities, the metal storage box, and manufacturer warranty. What you do not get are hand tools like plug followers or tweezers. This kit assumes you already have a professional tool set. For experienced locksmiths, this is not a problem.
The 4.6-star rating across 348 reviews and the number 94 best-seller rank in Door Lock Replacement Parts on Amazon confirm the professional trust in this kit. Stock is often limited, so if you see it available and need genuine Schlage pins, grab it.
Why OEM Pins Matter
Third-party pins are close approximations. Genuine Schlage pins are manufactured to exact factory tolerances, which means smoother key action and longer-lasting cylinder performance. For professional work, the difference is noticeable.
Who This Kit Is Built For
This is a professional-grade kit for working locksmiths and serious property managers who service Schlage locks regularly. Homeowners doing a one-time rekey will likely find it more than they need.
10. LAB LSK2N1 Pro Pin Kit – Dual-Brand Professional Favorite
LAB LSK2N1 Pro Pin Kit for Rekeying Schlage and Kwikset
Schlage and Kwikset
Security pins included
Organized case
Dual brand coverage
Pros
- Covers both Schlage and Kwikset in one organized kit
- Security pins included for master key creation
- Steel hard coat finished professional-grade case
- Highly organized compartments clearly marked
Cons
- No tools included must purchase separately
- Higher price reflecting dual-brand coverage
- Stock frequently limited
- Some storage compartments inefficiently sized
The LAB LSK2N1 is the kit that professional locksmiths recommend to each other. LAB has been making pinning kits for decades, and the LSK2N1 covers both Schlage and Kwikset keyways in a single organized case. If you service both brands regularly, carrying one kit instead of two is a major advantage.
The steel hard coat finished case is built to survive daily abuse. Inside, each pin size has its own clearly marked compartment. The kit includes security pins, which are essential for creating master key systems and for installations where you want added pick resistance. Standard consumer kits rarely include security pins.
I used this kit to rekey a mixed-brand property that had Schlage deadbolts on the front entrance and Kwikset knobs on interior doors. Having both pin sets in one case meant I completed the entire job without returning to my shop for a second kit. The 4.7-star rating across 158 reviews confirms the professional respect this kit commands.
Why This Is the Professional Standard
LAB pinning kits are referenced by name in locksmith training materials and forums. The dual-brand coverage, security pin inclusion, and case durability make this the kit working locksmiths actually carry. It is an investment that pays for itself in convenience and time saved.
Tools You Need to Add
The kit contains pins only. You need to add a cylinder remover, key gauge, plug follower, pinning mat or block, and quality tweezers. If you are upgrading from a consumer kit, you may already own these tools.
How to Choose the Right Rekey Kit?
Choosing the right rekey kit comes down to four factors: your lock brand, how many locks you need to rekey, your experience level, and whether you need professional features like master keying. Here is what I learned from testing 10 kits across multiple properties.
Brand Compatibility Is the First Filter
This is the most important decision. Rekey kits are brand specific. A Schlage pin kit will not work in a Kwikset lock and vice versa. Before buying anything, check your existing locks for brand markings and keyway type. Kwikset locks typically use the KW1 keyway. Schlage locks use the SC1 or SC4 keyway. The key itself usually has the keyway stamped on it near the bow.
If you have Kwikset SmartKey locks, the Kwikset SmartKey Re-Key Kit is by far the easiest path. It bypasses the pin-swapping process entirely. For traditional Kwikset pin tumbler locks, look at the Prime-Line E 2400 or the Summit Doorware Kwikset kit. For Schlage locks, the Prime-Line E 2402 covers Type C 5-pin cylinders while the eBuilderDirect and Summit kits offer bulk pinning.
Kit Size Depends on Your Workload
For a single home with 3 to 6 locks, a consumer kit like the Prime-Line E 2400 or E 2402 has enough pins to finish the job. For property managers or anyone rekeying regularly, bulk kits like the HowPlumb 200-piece or eBuilderDirect 500-pin set offer dramatically better value per rekey. A consumer kit costs roughly $2 to $3 per lock rekeyed. A bulk kit brings that down to well under $1 per lock.
Tool Quality Separates Good Kits from Frustrating Ones
The plug follower is the single most important tool in any rekey job. It lets you remove the cylinder plug without scattering pins everywhere. Cheap plastic followers flex and allow pins to escape through gaps. Metal followers glide smoothly and keep pins contained. The HowPlumb kit includes quality metal tools. Most Prime-Line and Summit kits include plastic tools that work but require more care.
Pin tweezers are the second critical tool. You will be handling pins the size of a grain of rice. Flat, wide tweezers cannot grip them. You need fine-point tweezers with serrated tips. If your kit includes plastic tweezers, budget $8 to $12 for a metal replacement pair.
DIY Kits vs Professional Grade
DIY kits under $30 are designed for occasional use. They include just enough pins and basic tools for a handful of locks. The pins are decent quality but the tools wear out. Professional kits from Schlage, LAB, and Summit Doorware cost $60 to $160 but include larger pin quantities, better organization, and components built for hundreds of rekey cycles.
If you are a homeowner doing a one-time rekey after moving, a $15 to $25 DIY kit is all you need. If you manage rental properties or are building a locksmith side business, invest in a professional kit from the start. The time savings and reduced frustration are worth the upfront cost.
Cost Analysis: Kit vs Calling a Locksmith
A typical locksmith charges $80 to $150 for the first lock and $25 to $40 for each additional lock. Rekeying a 6-lock home costs roughly $200 to $300 professionally. A DIY kit that handles 6 locks costs $15 to $25. Even if you buy a metal pair of tweezers and a better follower, your total stays under $50. The savings scale with every additional lock you rekey.
The trade-off is time and learning curve. Your first lock will take 30 to 45 minutes as you learn the process. After that, each lock takes 8 to 12 minutes. A locksmith completes each lock in 5 to 10 minutes because they have done it thousands of times.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will a locksmith charge to rekey a lock?
A professional locksmith typically charges $80 to $150 for the first lock rekey, plus a trip fee of $50 to $100. Each additional lock costs $25 to $40. Rekeying a standard 6-door home usually totals $200 to $300. A DIY rekey kit costs $15 to $25 and can handle the same job for a fraction of the price.
Are rekeying kits brand specific?
Yes, rekeying kits are brand specific. Schlage kits use SC1 or SC4 keyway pins and will not work in Kwikset locks. Kwikset kits use KW1 keyway pins and will not fit Schlage cylinders. Universal kits that cover multiple brands exist, like the LAB LSK2N1, but they include separate pin sets for each brand rather than truly universal pins. Always match the kit to your lock brand before purchasing.
Can I rekey my locks myself?
Yes, most residential pin tumbler locks can be rekeyed at home with a brand-specific rekey kit. The process requires removing the lock cylinder, replacing the bottom pins to match a new key, and reassembling. Kwikset SmartKey locks are even easier and rekey in seconds without disassembly. Plan for a 30-minute learning curve on your first lock, then 8 to 12 minutes per lock after that.
What tools do professional locksmiths use?
Professional locksmiths use a plug follower to remove cylinder plugs, precision pin tweezers for handling tiny pins, a key gauge or pin gauge decoder to identify pin sizes, a cylinder removal tool or C-clip remover, a pinning mat or block to organize pins during rekeying, and organized pin kits like the Schlage 40-132 or LAB LSK2N1. They also carry key cutting machines and diagnostic tools for automotive work.
Final Thoughts on the Best Locksmith Rekeying Kits
After testing 10 kits across residential and commercial properties, my top recommendation depends on your locks. For Kwikset SmartKey owners, the Kwikset SmartKey Re-Key Kit is unbeatable for speed and simplicity. For traditional Kwikset pin locks, the HowPlumb 200-piece kit offers the best tool set and component volume. For Schlage locks, the Prime-Line E 2402 handles budget jobs while the genuine Schlage 40-132 kit sets the professional standard.
The best locksmith rekeying kits save you 80 to 90 percent compared to professional service calls while teaching you a practical skill. Start with one kit matched to your lock brand, practice on an inexpensive lock first, and you will be rekeying like a pro in an afternoon. Your wallet will thank you.
