A pinning kit is the toolbox for this job. It’s packed with all the tiny pins and springs that let you “re-program” your lock to match a new key. Maybe you’ve got a Kwikset, Schlage, or another common deadbolt brand on your front door. The good news is, while the pins and parts may be slightly different, the overall process is surprisingly universal. You don’t need to be a locksmith to figure it out—just a bit of patience, some focus, and a willingness to get your hands a little dirty.
What Is a Pinning Kit and Why Would You Need One?
If you’ve never seen a pinning kit before, imagine a small plastic or metal box divided into neat little compartments. Each section holds tiny, color-coded pins, springs, and other bits—think of it like a sewing kit, but for locks. These tiny parts are the heart of every lock cylinder and the main players in re-keying deadbolts.
Here’s the thing: A pinning kit lets you swap out the pins inside your deadbolt so you can match it to a new key. That means if you move into a new home, lose your keys, or just want to make sure only you have access, you don’t have to change the whole lock. That’s not just convenient; it’s also a lot cheaper.
Why does this matter? Because having control over who can get into your home is important. Using a generic pinning kit with a specific deadbolt brand means you aren’t stuck buying a new lock—or waiting for a pro. Most kits are organized by brand (like Kwikset or Schlage), but many “universal” kits cover the most common pin and tumbler styles. One caveat: Always check your kit’s compatibility with your deadbolt before you start.
What Tools Do You Need To Re-Key a Deadbolt?
You don’t need a van full of expensive gear. Most of what you need fits on your kitchen table. In addition to a pinning kit for your lock’s brand (Schlage, Kwikset, etc.), here’s what you’ll want:
- Plug follower: This tube keeps springs and pins in place as you remove the cylinder plug—basically, it saves you from chasing springs across the floor.
- Key decoder or gauge: Helps measure the cuts on the key so you know which pin sizes to use. Some folks eyeball it, but having the gauge makes things way easier, especially for beginners.
- Shim (optional): Thin piece of metal to slide between the plug and the housing if things get sticky.
- Picks and tweezers: For handling the tiny pins—trust me, fingers are clumsy for this job!
- Phillips or flathead screwdriver: Needed to remove your deadbolt from the door.
- Your new key: The one you want the lock to work with after you re-key.
Honestly, it’s not much. Just make sure you have a flat surface with decent lighting. Losing a lock pin is a pain—those things are almost invisible on carpet!
Step-By-Step: How To Re-Key Your Deadbolt With a Pinning Kit
Ready to get your hands dirty? Here’s a slow, beginner-friendly walkthrough for re-keying a typical deadbolt. The general process is similar for brands like Schlage, Kwikset, Defiant, and Yale. If your deadbolt brand is more niche, grab the instructions that came in the box, but the steps below should get you 90% of the way.
- Remove the lock from the door.
Unscrew the two long screws on the inside of your door. Pull the lock apart so you can access the cylinder. Keep track of screws—they vanish! - Pull out the lock cylinder.
The cylinder is the part where you insert your key. You might need to remove a tailpiece or cam on the back, depending on your brand. - Insert your current (old) key and turn slightly.
Turn the key about 90 degrees—this lines up the pins and lets the plug slide out. - Use your plug follower.
As you push out the plug, follow it with the plug follower to keep pins and springs from flying everywhere. Go slow. If you hear a ping and see a pin fly, pause and find it! - Remove the old pins.
Dump the old pins out of the plug carefully. You can use tweezers or gently tap them into your hand. - Figure out new pin sizes with your key gauge.
Match the cuts on your new key to the pin sizes in your kit (most kits have a chart or color system—just follow that). - Insert the new pins.
Drop each pin into its slot in the plug, matching the order of the cuts on your new key. The tops should sit flush when the key is inserted—no part should stick out above the plug’s surface. - Reassemble the lock.
Carefully slide the plug back into the cylinder housing, using the plug follower to keep the top pins and springs in place. Turn the new key to check that everything moves smoothly. If it jams, a pin may be out of order—double-check your work. - Put the cylinder back into the deadbolt and reinstall it on your door.
Reattach any tailpieces or cams. Screw everything back together and test the new key several times.
That’s it! Take your time—the first re-key job always feels like a magic trick unraveling in slow motion.
Common Problems and How To Troubleshoot Pinning Kit Issues
You might be wondering, “What if I mess up or a pin goes flying?” Don’t stress—it happens to everyone at some point. Here’s how to tackle the most common snags when using your pinning kit to re-key a deadbolt.
Lost a pin or spring? Most kits come with plenty of spares. Just double-check the pin size or color before swapping in a replacement. If you’re short on spares, some locksmith shops sell pins individually, or you can order extras online.
Key won’t turn after reassembly? Usually, this means one or more pins are the wrong length or are out of sequence. Pop the plug back out and lay your key in the plug. All pins should sit flush with the surface—no bumps. If you spot a pin sticking up, trade it for one that matches the cut. It’s a bit like solving a puzzle; patience is your best tool.
Plug stuck or hard to remove? Sometimes the plug follower gets crooked, or a spring jams. Take a breath and try to keep steady pressure as you work the plug out. If it’s really jammed, check for a hidden clip or tailpiece that needs unscrewing first. Never force it—if something feels off, back up and look for anything you missed.
Lock feels rough or sticky? A tiny bit of graphite or lock lubricant (no oil!) can help. Just remember, if you see a metal shaving or something bent, stop and re-inspect. Forcing a jammed pin only makes things worse—locks are surprisingly delicate on the inside.
Most mistakes with a pinning kit are easy to fix if you stay patient and organized. Take photos with your phone as you go—the digital memory helps a ton if you need to backtrack.
Brand-Specific Tips: Schlage vs. Kwikset vs. Other Popular Deadbolts
Every lock brand has its own little quirks and personality. Here’s a quick rundown of what you might run into depending on the brand of your deadbolt—and why your pinning kit matters.
Schlage deadbolts usually have six pins, and their pins are slightly longer and more robust than Kwikset. Their cylinder plugs have a distinct shape, so make sure your plug follower fits snugly. If you force it, you can damage the plug. Schlage locks tend to be a bit more “forgiving” in their tolerances, but you’ll need to be precise with your pin heights.
Kwikset deadbolts often feature five-pin cylinders and are generally easier to service for beginners. Their SmartKey system is different—it’s not covered by a normal pinning kit (you need a SmartKey reset tool instead). For regular pin-tumbler Kwiksets, standard pinning kits work great.
Other brands (like Yale, Defiant, or Baldwin) might have different pin diameters or plug shapes. That’s why it’s smart to check your kit’s compatibility before starting. Universal kits usually provide enough variation to handle these, but always compare your pins before swapping.
If in doubt, check your kit’s chart or the deadbolt’s manual. You don’t want to force a “close-enough” pin into a slot—that’s a recipe for a stuck lock.
Should You Buy a Universal Pinning Kit or a Brand-Specific Kit?
You might be wondering if you should buy a universal kit that “fits all,” or stick with one made for your specific deadbolt brand. Honestly, it depends on what’s on your doors and how often you plan on re-keying locks.
Universal pinning kits are great if you have a mix of brands at home, or if you like being prepared for anything. They come with a wide variety of pins, colors, and even extra tools. If you mess up or lose a piece, you’ll probably have a spare. Downsides? They can feel overwhelming—the sheer number of options can confuse beginners, and you’ll need to double-check pin compatibility.
Brand-specific kits (like “Kwikset Only” or “Schlage Brand Kit”) are more focused and often cheaper. Everything inside is made for your exact brand, so there’s less guesswork and less chance of grabbing the wrong part. Perfect if you just have one brand of deadbolt.
If you’re only re-keying one or two locks and don’t plan on becoming the neighborhood locksmith, go with the brand-specific kit. If you love tinkering or have a fixer-upper house with every kind of lock, universal is a better investment.
Safety Tips Before and After Re-Keying Your Deadbolt
Let me explain—re-keying a lock isn’t dangerous in the “power tools and ER visits” sense, but a little caution goes a long way. Here’s how to keep things smooth and safe.
- Keep your workspace organized. Tiny pins and springs can disappear in an instant. Use a white towel or tray to make dropped parts easy to spot. Careful organization saves headaches later.
- Test the lock before reinstalling. Always insert the new key and turn it several times in both directions before putting the lock back on the door. If it doesn’t work now, it definitely won’t work once it’s mounted.
- Don’t force anything. If a part is stuck, double-check for hidden clips or off-size pins. Locks are precise—too much force can break them.
- Double-check your new key works. Try it with the door open, then closed. Give copies to anyone who needs access right away—don’t wait for someone to get locked out!
Most importantly, write down which doors you’ve re-keyed and where those new keys are. It sounds fussy, but nothing kills the joy of a successful DIY like misplacing your only working key.
Alternatives to Re-Keying and When It Makes Sense
Sometimes, re-keying isn’t the best answer. If your deadbolt is damaged or super old, you might be better off swapping the whole lock. Why? Because some older cylinders are worn down or corroded inside—new pins won’t fix a sticky or unreliable lock.
Another alternative is using a SmartKey-compatible lock. These let you reset the lock yourself with a special tool—no pinning kit needed. It’s faster, but the internal parts are a bit more complex, and not everyone loves their long-term durability.
If you’re looking for a full “reset” for every lock in your house, consider swapping them all for a matching set. That way, one key fits all the doors right out of the box—no pinning needed.
Re-keying is the DIY sweet spot: affordable, practical, and empowering. But sometimes, a whole new lock is a better investment. Don’t be afraid to decide based on your home’s needs!
Wrapping Up: Mastering the Pinning Kit for Deadbolt Re-Keying
Re-keying your deadbolt with a pinning kit can seem intimidating at first. Honestly? The hardest part is just slowing down and being careful with those tiny pins. But with a bit of patience, a steady hand, and the right instructions, you’ll swap out your lock’s code in no time. Think of it as hitting the reset button on your home’s security—no need to call in a pro, just a few tools and some quiet concentration.
Whether you’re using a universal or brand-specific kit, knowing how your deadbolt works (and what to do when things go sideways) gives you control. It’s a smart skill to have and oddly satisfying to finish. Just be sure to celebrate when that new key turns smoothly—because you did it yourself, and your home is a little safer for it.
