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Two Open Source Projects Combine to 3D Print a Working Replica Key Using a Flipper Zero
(www.hackster.io)
this post was submitted on 27 Mar 2025
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This jams the lock! :D
It would work a couple of times. It's just not a long term solution.
Only if the lock isn't worn or dirty on the inside. I wouldn't trust this for any outdoor lock or older lock. Even cheap locks with poor fit and finish causing rough operation would not be a good idea. This is a fun gimmick that could easily cost you more money than it's worth.
The only way I might use it is if I were to use the 3D printed key as a pattern to cast a metal one. And I ain't got time for that.
I personally think it would hold up, so long as it wasn't abused. 3D prints are weak and prone to breaking with in the inter layer structure. Intra layer, they are quite strong. Also when they fail, intra layer, they tend to deform, rather than snap.
Material matters however. PLA is relatively prone to breaking. PETG or nylon are far tougher.
It's also worth noting the use case here. It's either nefarious (breaking in) or one-off (unlocking a door where you no longer have the key available). Neither requires long term survivability.
I've had one of these 3d printed keys in my wallet as a backup in case I get locked out for 5 years now. I certainly don't use it often but yeah it holds up fine.
The couple of times I have used it works fine but you certainly want to be a little extra careful with it. I've got locks that are only 5ish years old so they all turn rather easily, and I avoid my door with the deadbolt when I use it because that would probably be too much for it.
Mine is PETG but for how thin it is, it flexes a lot. I figured flexing is better than snapping off, but I think PLA or maybe a polycarbonate would function better. A nylon would probably be too flexible like the PETG.
PLA+ is too bendy, confirmed. It "works" but I needed to use a separate tool like a tension wrench to turn the lock.
Old locks can be brutal to keys, it's what grinds the steel keys down & at some point even new keys don't last as long.
I fully agree, but most locks aren't in that state. 95% of the locks you might want to use this technique on would be in a reasonable condition.
Yes, I agree, it's perfectly fine - jamming the door is more of a phobic anxiety.
Then again, 95% of such locks are prob vulnerable to simpler attacks.