Archive for category: Commercial Counter

By Ryan Kaullen, Field Services Manager at Kenton Brothers

Kenton Brothers has been in existence since 1897 as a commercial locksmith company located in Kansas City, MO. During our 128-year history, we have had a commercial counter where customers could walk in and get keys cut, buy locks, have locks worked on, (they could even have mower blades sharpened back in the day, but we don’t do that any more!) and other locksmith related items. The commercial counter has always been an important part of our business.

As the years have gone by, keys have changed, locks have changed and new types of locks have been invented. With these ongoing changes,  the most frequently asked questions we get have changed as well. So here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get!

Can you cut this key?
We get this question a lot. The answer can be complicated for a number of reasons. If the key is a standard, common key, it is likely we have it in stock or can order in blanks. Where the answer tends to get murky is if the key is a restricted key. To get the correct answer, you can either bring the key into the front counter or you can email the front counter at counter@kentonbrothers.com and send clear pictures of the key (front and back) and our team will be able to answer your question.

Can you work on residential locks?
The answer is yes! While we do not sell residential locks at our counter, we can work on them if they are brought into us.

What is a blind code?
A blind code is a reference to a code stamped onto the key that signifies it is a part of a restricted system. Blind codes are unique to the key system. It helps us also identify the system when a key is brought in and with that blind code will let us know who is authorized to get keys done on the system and who isn’t. This helps with the security of your system.

What is your turn around time for work?
This is not an easy answer because so much depends on the complexity of your project. How many keys need to be cut, how many cylinders are to be pinned, our current workload and do we have to order parts. However, our commercial counter team can answer all those questions by coming into the front counter, emailing the counter, or calling them at 816-888-5878 to discuss your project.

Do you carry locks on hand?
Yes, we do carry an assortment of commercial locks on hand. While we can’t carry everything, we have strategic relationships with distributors who have large inventories, and we can a lot of times have parts in within just a few days and even overnight if the request calls for it.

Can you help with cabinet locks?
Yes, we carry cabinet locks, cabinet keys, and we can work on them. Cabinet locks can be tricky because there are so many manufacturers out there so knowing the “code” on the lock face helps tremendously when narrowing down key type and options.

Does Kenton Brothers sell Cameras, Access Control, etc.?
Yes! We offer a full line of commercial cameras, access control, intrusion, and other security options. Our commercial counter staff can direct you to one of our Security Consultants for further help.

Do you cut / duplicate Automotive Keys?
While we have a few offerings for automotive keys this is not something we specialize in, and we would suggest finding another company in the area that does.

Our front counter is a resource for our customers. The face-to-face interaction we enjoy and cherish. We are always happy to see our customers, answers questions, provide answers, and hand over freshly cut keys. If there is anything our staff can help with, please do not hesitate to reach out!

By Ryan Kaullen, Field Services Manager at Kenton Brothers

Kenton Brothers has been in business since 1897. Through our 127 year history, we’ve seen just about every type of lock imaginable. But in 2024, we rarely see locks that are 100+ years old. Most of those have become obsolete, the companies who once made them are out of business, and most were just thrown away over the years.

Recently a customer of Kenton Brothers brought into our commercial locksmith service counter a lock from the early 1900’s that had a piece broken. The customer bringing in the lock knew it was a longshot that it could be fixed. But it was a piece of history and was in a historical building, so they were going to do everything they could to try and fix it. The piece that was broken is vital to the lock because without it the bolt would free float… not allowing the lock to properly engage and lock.

The section circled below is the part that was broken.

Vern is our senior front counter commercial locksmith has been a locksmith all his life. His father was a locksmith before him, so he is always up for a challenge. After looking over the lock, he came up with a plan that required him to take a very small bit to drill completely through the piece and then install a small roll pin to attach it back to the lock body. This was an extremely difficult task because of the size of the part that was broken. If the drill bit did not go straight through, the piece wouldn’t be repairable.

After re-attaching the broken piece to the lock body, it was tested over 100 times to make sure the repair would hold up. And it did!

Repairs on 100+ year old locks don’t always turn out like this. But we like solving problems for our customers. Being innovative is one of our core values, and in this case it allowed us to help keep a part of history intact.

Do you need help with commercial locksmith services at your business? We can help!