this post was submitted on 24 Aug 2025
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Unethical Life Pro Tips

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How would I make copies of keys that either say "Do not duplicate", are of that general type with like a locksmith business etched into it, or is some fancier "Best" Cormax brand?

I'm really close to getting into stable housing, been roughing it for a few years, and do custodial to make ends meet. There are a few keys that if I had copies of them would let me use a shower, toilet, A/C and a microwave for a few months then destroy the keys when I move in to a place.

Any ideas?

Sorry to ask, thank you for any direction or guidance you might be able to provide.

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[–] violetsoftness@piefed.blahaj.zone 6 points 4 days ago* (last edited 4 days ago) (1 children)

Unless you go to a super professional locksmith shop nobody cares. I have had these kinds of keys copied multiple times and prepared an elaborate backstory about being sent by my boss and they didn't even ask either time. They didn't even look or notice.

If they do ask and you don't want to lie just go to the next hardware store over. They can't keep your keys or hold you or anything for trying to get a key made, at worst they will say no.

[–] vimmiewimmie@slrpnk.net 2 points 3 days ago (1 children)

Do you know if this includes the 'Best Cormax' type keys?

It's the one that would provide the shower access, so hoping to find a solution for it.

Thank you for taking the time to comment.

[–] violetsoftness@piefed.blahaj.zone 2 points 3 days ago* (last edited 3 days ago)

that system works through restricted keyblanks, so they specifically aren't handing out the blanks to ANY locksmith, you can normally only get a true copy from the Best factory directly.

I'm sure it's possible but it would require an unethical professional who knows what they are doing or a very lucky and patient DIY job to make a frankenkey I think.