Many people are not aware of how much money goes into the tools a locksmith uses.
When a locksmith first starts out he generally doesn't have a large variety of equipment but over time he will build up tools that are worth many thousands of dollars.
When you need a locksmith you generally only see a small variety of the tools needed to accomplish the job.
But there is much more than a slim jim, lock picking kit and a few key blanks when it comes to a successful locksmith business.
The key blanks alone take up much space and money.
Each type of automobile and lock takes a different type.
So there are many categories of blank keys a locksmith must have handy.
Then he needs a machine to actually cut the keys.
These vary in size and price depending on what he wants.
He will need many supplies simply to keep up with the key blanks.
From tags to key towers he will spend a large amount on supplies.
Of course he needs to tools to pick and change and install locks.
This requires picking sets, tools and locks themselves.
This amounts to thousands of dollars depending on whether the locksmith specializes in specific types of locks.
Newer vehicles require a special machine to code the keys.
It's all a part of safety for the car owner and yet more equipment that a locksmith needs.
Then they have the older cars that require the basic tools like the slim jim that they must have on hand.
The locksmith will have quite the arsenal of tools available that allows him to meet the needs of any client.
While you may only see one or two of his collection, chances are he has thousands of pieces of equipment to run his business.