Kwikset Smart Key Bump Resistant Review

Kwikset is my favorite lock for low-cost residential applications.  In fact, I re-key them more often than any other house lock.  The new Kwikset Smart Key system is a wonderful concept in lock keying technology.  These locks are difficult to pick open, and that is a good thing. Once they are installed, you can re-key them yourself by going to Lowe's or Home Depot and asking for the Smart Key re-keying kit, pictured above.  When you decide to re-key these, be sure that you do not have any distractions because you want to do this accurately. Here is how you re-key these.

1.  Get the re-key kit and have any duplicates made while you are at the hardware store.
2.  Insert your old key, turn it 90 degrees to the right and stop. It does not matter if the lock is installed upside down.
3.  Insert the tool and push until your hear/feel a click. Remove tool.
4.  Without moving the key in any direction, remove it. Use your thumb to hold the key cylinder in place.
5.  Insert the new key in the same position in which you removed the old.
6.  Turn the new key back in the opposite direction and work it back and forth.

Do note that there have been some problems in the past with this system.  I have had calls to houses where one year old locks were not serviceable.  Fun, fun, fun!

In the event you mess it up and the keys no longer work, a locksmith can use a special tool to reset the lock. However, locksmith rates being what they are, just go and buy a new lock and have the guy at Lowe's set the new lock to the key you give him.