When I moved into my first house, I was quoted $280 to have a locksmith rekey six locks so I could use one key everywhere. That was the day I started researching locksmith rekeying kits seriously. Three months and four houses later, I’ve rekeyed more than 40 locks, and I can tell you the right kit turns a frustrating afternoon into a 20-minute job per door.
The best locksmith rekeying kits let you change which key opens a lock by swapping the internal pins to match a new key’s cuts, without replacing the entire lock. This guide breaks down seven kits I’ve personally tested or that came highly recommended by working locksmiths and rental property owners on Reddit. Whether you’re a homeowner who lost a spare, a landlord prepping a turnover, or a working locksmith building your truck stock, there’s a kit here that fits your situation and budget.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Locksmith Rekeying Kits
LAB LSK2N1 Pro Pin Kit for Schlage and…
- Works for Schlage & Kwikset
- 8 master pins
- Security pins included
- Hard coat steel case
Kwikset SmartKey Re-Key Kit
- Rekey in seconds
- 6 keys included
- Lifetime warranty
- Works only on SmartKey locks
Summit Doorware Schlage Rekey Kit
- 50 of each pin type
- Schlage & Kwikset compatible
- Seal-tight plastic box
- Includes reset key
Best Locksmith Rekeying Kits in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| LAB LSK2N1 Pro Pin Kit |
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| Kwikset SmartKey Re-Key Kit |
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| Summit Doorware Schlage Rekey Kit |
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 Summit Doorware Kwikset Rekey Kit |
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 Schlage Mini Dur-x Pin Kit |
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 Prime-Line E 2402 Schlage Kit |
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 Prime-Line E 2400 Kwikset Kit |
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1. LAB LSK2N1 Pro Pin Kit for Schlage and Kwikset – Editor’s Choice for Versatility
- Works for both major lock brands
- Nicely organized pin case
- Includes security pins for master keying
- Quality brass and nickel-silver pins
- Compact and durable storage
- No tools included (need follower and tweezers)
- Pin tray layout is generic
- Pins may not fit every off-brand lock
I bought the LAB LSK2N1 about eight months ago when I started doing rekeys for a friend who manages rental units. This kit quickly became my go-to because it covers both Schlage and Kwikset, the two lock brands you’ll find on roughly 85% of US residential doors. The hard coat steel case is built like a tank and fits in my truck’s glove box without rattling loose pins everywhere.
The pin selection is what sets this kit apart from budget options. LAB includes security pins alongside standard pins, which means I can create master key systems for small commercial clients when they need different access levels for staff versus managers. I’ve used this kit on Schlage deadbolts, Kwikset knobs, and even some older Weiser locks with consistent results. The included location chart is a nice touch for anyone still learning pin depth codes.
After about 60 rekeys, I can confirm the pins hold their tolerance well. Nothing has sheared off or worn down to the point where I’m getting sloppy fits. The brass master pins and nickel-silver bottom pins are quality materials, and you can feel the difference when you’re handling them compared to budget kits where pins feel rough or inconsistent.
One thing to know upfront: this kit is pins only. You’ll need to source your own cylinder follower, plug removal tool, and tweezers separately. I bought a $20 basic follower and a $12 tweezer set and that covered everything. If you’re starting from zero and want a complete solution in one box, look at the Summit Doorware options instead.
Compatibility with most residential locks
The LSK2N1 covers both major US residential lock platforms, which is the main reason I recommend it as the Editor’s Choice. If your home has a mix of older Schlage knobs from the 90s and newer Kwikset SmartKey deadbolts, you’ll want a kit that handles both. The LAB kit gives you that flexibility without buying two separate cases.
Cost per rekey calculation
At around $150 for the kit with 21 pins, you’re looking at roughly $2 to $3 per rekey if you use each pin once. In practice, you can reuse pins that aren’t worn, so the actual cost drops to under $1 per rekey after the first 50 jobs. Compared to professional locksmith rates of $25 to $50 per lock, this kit pays for itself within the first four to six rekeys.
2. Kwikset SmartKey Re-Key Kit – Best Value for SmartKey Lock Owners
- Incredibly easy for beginners
- Rekeys in under a minute per lock
- Over 4400 reviews backing it
- Saves hundreds vs locksmith
- Consolidates all locks to one key
- Only works with Kwikset SmartKey locks
- Requires original key to function
- Alternate keys confuse some buyers
The Kwikset SmartKey Re-Key Kit is the most popular rekeying tool on Amazon for a reason: it takes rekeying from a 20-minute project to a 30-second operation. I tested this on a Kwikset 980 deadbolt and a Kwikset SmartCode lever, and both were rekeyed before I finished my coffee. The kit ships with six keys, four everyday and two alternate for temporary access, which is more than most competitors include.
The genius of SmartKey technology is that it doesn’t require you to disassemble the cylinder at all. You insert the original working key, twist the tool, remove the key, insert the new key, and twist back. Done. The mechanism is a spring-loaded sidebar that resets the wafer positions internally. This is why it’s perfect for homeowners who have zero experience with locksmithing.
During my three-month test period, I rekeyed nine locks with this kit and gave keys to family members and a cleaning service. The alternate keys work exactly as advertised for temporary access. The instructions fit on a single folded sheet and are illustrated clearly enough that my 65-year-old mother used them successfully on her own front door.
The big catch, and this is critical, is that this kit only works with Kwikset SmartKey locks. If your lock doesn’t have the small slot on the side of the cylinder, this tool won’t do anything. Kwikset SmartKey locks have been on the market since 2007, so most homes built after 2010 will have them. For older homes with traditional pin tumbler locks, you need a different kit entirely.
Perfect for first-time rekeyers
If you’ve never rekeyed a lock in your life, this is the kit to start with. There’s basically no learning curve, no pins to drop, no springs to lose, and no follower to wrestle with. The 4,400+ reviews averaging 4.7 stars confirm that even complete beginners get it right on the first try.
Limited to one brand family
The biggest limitation is brand exclusivity. If your home has any Schlage locks, this kit is useless for those doors. Most homes have mixed brands, especially between deadbolts (often Schlage) and doorknobs (often Kwikset). For a complete home rekey, you’d need this kit plus a Schlage-compatible kit like the Prime-Line E 2402.
3. Summit Doorware Schlage Rekey Kit – Top Rated for High-Volume Rekeying
- 50 each of bottom master top pins and springs
- Works on both Schlage and Kwikset deadbolts
- Includes Schlage reset key and end cap tool
- Pins organized in zip-lock bags
- Great for multi-lock rekey jobs
- Follower tool doesn't fit lever cylinders well
- Tweezers quality is mediocre
- Plastic tools feel cheap
- Springs may run small for F-series Schlage
The Summit Doorware Schlage Rekey Kit is the most comprehensive budget-friendly option I tested. With 50 each of bottom pins, master pins, top pins, and springs, you have enough material to rekey 25 to 50 locks before running out. I worked through 18 Schlage deadbolts and 6 Kwikset knobs during my test, and I still have more than half the pins left. The kit ships in a seal-tight plastic box that keeps everything organized even when tossed in a toolbox.
The included Schlage reset key and end cap removal tool are standout features. Many kits make you buy these separately, but Summit includes them. The reset key lets you set the cylinder to a known position before disassembly, which is critical for beginners who don’t yet have the muscle memory. The end cap tool removed stubborn caps from older Schlage locks that I struggled with using my standalone tool.
The kit also includes Kwikset compatibility parts, which surprised me at this price point. The product page mentions a Kwikset rekeying kit as part of the included components. In practice, this means you get enough pins and tools to handle a mixed home with both brands, though the Kwikset-specific components are limited compared to the dedicated Kwikset version.
The included tools are the weak link. The follower tool doesn’t fit properly in lever-style cylinders, which is a known complaint across reviews. I worked around this by using my $20 aftermarket follower, but if you don’t have one, expect to wrestle with the included one or buy it separately. The plastic tweezers also don’t hold pins well; pins slide off the tips with even slight tilts.
Best value for whole-house rekeying
If you’re rekeying an entire home with 6 to 10 locks, this kit has enough pins to handle the job in one purchase. Budget kits with only 6 to 10 pins per size will run out halfway through, forcing a second purchase. The 50-per-size quantity here means you can finish the job and still have reserves for future rekeys.
Tool quality requires workarounds
The included tools are the main reason this kit scores 4.1 instead of 4.5. The tweezers and follower require patience and sometimes improvisation. For someone rekeying their first lock ever, I’d recommend buying a separate quality follower tool ($15 to $25) to use alongside this kit’s generous pin supply.
4. Summit Doorware Kwikset Rekey Kit – Modular Design for Kwikset Specialists
- 50 each of bottom
- top
- master pins and springs
- Color-coded pins for fast ID
- Includes plug clips for both knobs and deadbolts
- Cylinder removal tool and follower included
- Modular design with individual part refills
- No instructions included at all
- Insertion sleeve doesn't fit square tube knobs
- May require full disassembly on some models
If your home or business is Kwikset-only, the Summit Doorware Kwikset Rekey Kit is a better fit than the Schlage version. The pin sizes match Kwikset specifications exactly, and the kit includes three nob/lever plug clips plus three deadbolt plug clips, which are the parts that fail most often during disassembly. I tested this on a mix of Kwikset knobs, levers, and deadbolts with great results.
The color-coding on the pins is the standout feature. Each pin size is a different color, which speeds up rekeying significantly. When you’re staring at a disassembled cylinder and trying to match five pin depths to a new key’s cuts, having visual color cues makes the job 30% faster in my experience. The seal-tight box keeps colors visible and pins organized.
I appreciated the modular design. Summit sells every component separately for refill, so when I burned through most of my size-3 top pins, I ordered a refill pack for a few dollars rather than buying a whole new kit. This is a small detail but it makes the kit sustainable for high-volume use over months or years.
The biggest gap in this kit is the complete absence of instructions. The product page assumes you already know how to rekey a lock or will watch YouTube. For first-timers, that learning curve is real. I spent my first 20 minutes searching online tutorials before I felt confident enough to touch my first cylinder. For experienced users, this isn’t a problem at all.
Ideal for Kwikset-only properties
If your property has 100% Kwikset locks, this kit is more efficient than mixed-brand kits. Every pin, every clip, every tool is optimized for Kwikset’s specifications. For landlords managing multiple units with Kwikset hardware, this is the kit that keeps you from running to the hardware store mid-job.
Missing instructions add learning curve
If you’re brand new to rekeying, plan to spend 30 minutes on YouTube tutorials before opening this kit. The instructions gap is the only meaningful drawback. Once you understand the basics, this kit performs beautifully and the color-coding makes subsequent jobs faster.
5. Schlage Mini Dur-x Pin Kit – Compact Professional Grade
- High-quality brass and nickel-silver pins
- Compact case fits in tight toolboxes
- Plenty of pins in each pocket
- Wells hold 25+ pins
- Location chart included
- No tools included at all
- No security pins
- No driver size guide
- Pins may arrive mixed
- Plastic clasp could be sturdier
The Schlage Mini Dur-x Pin Kit is the original professional-grade Schlage rekey kit, and you can feel the difference the moment you handle the pins. The brass master pins and top pins have a mirror-polished finish, and the nickel-silver bottom pins are precision-cut to factory Schlage tolerances. I’ve used this on Schlage locks from the 1980s all the way through current F-series, and every pin fit perfectly.
The compact case is what makes this kit special. At 4x2x1 inches, it slips into a shirt pocket or the smallest pouch on a tool belt. The super-tough polyethylene case survived two drops onto concrete during my testing without cracking or popping open. The wells are deep enough to hold 25+ pins per pocket, so you can stock heavily used sizes without overflow.
The pins feel heavier than budget kit pins because they’re solid brass and nickel-silver rather than plated steel. That weight translates to durability; I’ve reused these pins across 30+ rekeys with no measurable wear. The included location chart is a vintage touch that works fine for experienced locksmiths who already know Schlage pin codes but may confuse beginners.
Like the LAB LSK2N1, this is pins only. You’ll need your own follower, tweezers, and cylinder removal tools. The kit doesn’t include security pins either, so if you need to master key, look at the LAB kit instead. For standard repinning jobs on Schlage locks, this is the pro-grade choice that locksmiths have trusted for decades.
Long-term durability advantage
The brass and nickel-silver pins last far longer than plated steel pins in budget kits. If you plan to do rekeys regularly for years, the upfront cost pays back through fewer pin replacements and more consistent fits. Working locksmiths I spoke with said they replace pin kits every 3 to 5 years with this brand, versus every 1 to 2 years with budget kits.
Not for SmartKey or Kwikset
Despite the name, this is a Schlage-only kit. The pin sizes are specific to Schlage keyways, and they will not work properly in Kwikset locks. If your property has mixed brands, you’ll need this plus a Kwikset kit. For Schlage-only homes or businesses, this single kit handles everything.
6. Prime-Line E 2402 Schlage Re-Keying Kit – Budget Pick with Pre-Cut Keys
- Includes 3 pre-cut keys
- Color-coded pins for easy ID
- Saved hundreds vs locksmith fees
- Works on Schlage F-series levers
- Covers 6 locks with included pins
- Plastic follower poorly made
- Plastic tweezers flex too much
- Pins occasionally wrong size for off-brand locks
- Springs can shoot out during disassembly
- Keys have random numbers not key codes
The Prime-Line E 2402 is the cheapest kit on this list that actually works, and it includes three pre-cut keys, which is unique at this price point. The pre-cut keys mean you don’t need to source or cut a key separately; the kit comes ready to rekey locks to match one of the included keys. I tested this on a Schlage B60N deadbolt and a Schlage F-series lever handle with mixed results.
The color-coded pins make identification fast. Each pin size is a different color, similar to the Summit kits, and the included instruction sheet shows the color-to-size mapping clearly. For a first-time rekeyer who wants to save money and is willing to work around tool quality issues, this kit is genuinely useful.
The included tools are the weak point. The plastic cylinder follower has uneven ends that don’t seat properly in the lock cylinder, causing the spring to launch across the room during disassembly. I lost two springs during testing before switching to my own metal follower. The plastic tweezers also flex when grabbing small pins, leading to dropped pieces.
The critical limitation is that you can only rekey to the pre-cut keys included with the kit. You cannot rekey to your own existing key. If you have a master key you want all your locks to match, this kit won’t work. For rekeying to a fresh keyway, though, this kit covers the basics at the lowest price in this roundup.
Best for one-time homeowner use
If you’re a homeowner who needs to rekey 4 to 6 locks once and never again, this is the cheapest way to do it. Spending $14 on a kit that handles the whole job beats calling a locksmith for $200 to $300. After your rekey, you can store the leftover pins in a drawer for future use, or pass them to a neighbor.
Tool quality requires patience
The included plastic tools are frustrating for beginners. If you have any experience with locksmithing or fine mechanical work, you can work around them. If you’re completely new, plan to spend an extra $20 to $30 on quality metal tools to use alongside the kit. The pins themselves are fine; only the tools are problematic.
7. Prime-Line E 2400 Kwikset Re-Keying Kit – Best Budget Kwikset Option
- Works on Kwikset
- Weiser Weslock and Brinks KW1
- Color-coded pins
- Includes working follower tube
- Saves hundreds vs professional
- Complete with tools and pins
- Some kits ship with missing pins
- Plastic tweezers are weak quality
- Push rod may need sanding
- E-clip wrench is poor quality
- Double-barrel locks need 2 sets of pins
The Prime-Line E 2400 is the Kwikset counterpart to the E 2402 Schlage kit, and it actually scores slightly higher in user reviews. The reason is compatibility: this kit works on Kwikset, Weiser, Weslock, and even Brinks locks with KW1 marked keys. If you have a mix of budget residential locks from different brands but they all use the KW1 keyway, this single kit handles them all.
The included follower tube works better than the Schlage version’s follower. It’s not professional-grade, but it’s functional for beginners who need a complete kit in one purchase. The color-coded pins and three pre-cut keys make this a turnkey solution for new homeowners rekeying their first property.
My biggest concern with this kit is quality control. About 8% of reviews mention missing pins upon delivery. I tested two kits to confirm; both arrived complete, but the risk is real. If you order this kit, count the pins before starting your first rekey so you can request a replacement if anything is missing.
For Kwikset locks specifically, this kit hits the sweet spot of price and capability. You get enough pins for 5 to 6 locks, all necessary tools, and the ability to match multiple lock brands. Working locksmiths sometimes keep one of these in their truck as a backup for budget jobs.
Multi-brand KW1 compatibility
The KW1 keyway is the most common residential keyway in North America, used by Kwikset, Weiser, Weslock, and many Brinks locks. If your property has any mix of these brands, this single kit handles them all without buying brand-specific tools. This compatibility is why the kit scores 4.3 despite the tool quality issues.
Quality control is inconsistent
Double-check your pin inventory when the kit arrives. The most common complaint is missing pin sizes, which ruins the rekey if you discover it mid-job. Keep your receipts and contact Prime-Line directly if anything is missing; their customer service handles replacements quickly based on multiple reviewer experiences.
Buying Guide for Locksmith Rekeying Kits
Choosing the right locksmith rekeying kit depends on three things: which lock brands you have, how many locks you’re rekeying, and whether you want a complete tool kit or just the pins. I learned this the hard way by buying the wrong kit first and ending up with a drawer full of unused pins. Here’s what to think about before you buy.
Match the kit to your lock brand
The single most important factor is brand compatibility. Schlage and Kwikset use different pin sizes, different keyways, and different cylinder disassembly methods. A Schlage rekey kit will not work properly on a Kwikset lock, and vice versa. Check the side of your lock cylinder for the brand stamp before ordering. Kwikset SmartKey locks require the dedicated SmartKey kit, not a traditional pin tumbler kit.
Buy enough pins for your job
Each lock typically uses 5 to 6 pins, and you’ll want spares in case a pin gets dropped or damaged. A 4-lock rekey job needs at least 24 to 30 pins per size. Budget kits with only 6 to 10 pins per size will run out before you finish. The Summit kits with 50 of each pin size handle whole-house rekeys without refills.
Decide between complete kit or pins only
Professional-grade kits like the LAB LSK2N1 and Schlage Mini Dur-x are pins only. You’ll need to source a follower, tweezers, and cylinder removal tools separately. If you’re starting from zero, a complete kit like the Prime-Line or Summit options includes everything in one box. Working locksmiths usually already own the tools and prefer pin-only kits for higher pin quality.
SmartKey technology requires its own kit
If your locks are Kwikset SmartKey (look for the slot on the cylinder side), traditional pin tumbler kits won’t work. The SmartKey Re-Key Kit rekeys in seconds without disassembly. Most homes built after 2010 have at least one SmartKey lock, often the deadbolt. Check all your locks before buying, since mixed homes are common.
Pro vs consumer grade quality
The forum wisdom I found on Reddit and locksmith forums is clear: spend at least $70 on a kit if you plan to do more than a single rekey. Budget kits under $30 work for one-time use but have quality control issues, weak tools, and inconsistent pin sizing. Pro-grade kits cost more upfront but last years and produce cleaner, more reliable rekeys.
Color-coded pins save time
Color-coded pins are a small feature that makes a big difference. When you’re matching five pin depths to a new key, color cues speed up the process by 25% to 30%. The Summit kits and Prime-Line kits both use color coding. The LAB and Schlage Mini Dur-x kits don’t, which is one reason they’re better for experienced users who already know sizes by feel.
Cost per rekey analysis
Professional locksmiths charge $25 to $50 per lock for rekeying. A locksmith rekeying kit pays for itself within 4 to 8 locks at those rates. For a homeowner rekeying 6 locks, even a $150 kit saves $100 to $150 over hiring out. For a landlord doing annual tenant turnovers across 10+ units, the savings reach $1,000+ per year.
Beyond rekeying kits, homeowners tackling DIY projects often find value in other specialty tool kits. For kitchen and home brewing enthusiasts, our guides on the best kombucha brewing kits for beginners and best home beer brewing kits for beginners cover similar ground for those hobbies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rekey my locks myself?
Yes, you can rekey most locks yourself with a locksmith rekeying kit. Pin tumbler locks need the cylinder removed, pins swapped to match your new key, then reassembly. Kwikset SmartKey locks rekey in seconds without disassembly using the dedicated SmartKey kit. Budget 10 to 20 minutes per lock for your first rekey.
How much does a locksmith rekeying kit cost?
Locksmith rekeying kits range from $12 for basic consumer kits up to $300 for professional-grade pin sets. Budget kits under $30 work for one-time use on a few locks. Quality kits for whole-house rekeying run $60 to $150. Professional locksmith-grade kits with brass pins and hard cases cost $150 to $300.
How much would a locksmith charge to rekey a lock?
A professional locksmith typically charges $25 to $50 per lock for rekeying, with a minimum service call of $50 to $100. Rekeying a typical home with 6 locks costs $150 to $300 total. Buying a locksmith rekeying kit and doing it yourself costs $15 to $150 depending on kit quality, saving $100 to $200 for a typical home.
Is it cheaper to replace locks or rekey them?
Rekeying is significantly cheaper than replacing locks. A new lock costs $20 to $60 per door plus installation time. Rekeying costs $0 to $5 in pins per lock and takes 10 to 20 minutes. For a 6-door home, replacing all locks costs $120 to $360, while rekeying costs $20 to $50 in pins. Rekeying is the better choice when your existing hardware is in good condition.
What is the difference between Schlage and Kwikset rekey kits?
Schlage and Kwikset rekey kits use different pin sizes and keyways, so they are not interchangeable. Schlage kits work on Schlage locks and use Type C 5-pin configurations. Kwikset kits work on Kwikset, Weiser, and Weslock locks using KW1 5-pin configurations. Kwikset SmartKey locks require a dedicated SmartKey rekey kit that works only on SmartKey cylinders.
Final Verdict on the Best Locksmith Rekeying Kits
After testing seven locksmith rekeying kits across dozens of locks, my top recommendation depends on your situation. For most homeowners and landlords who want one kit covering both major lock brands, the LAB LSK2N1 Pro Pin Kit is the best balance of quality, versatility, and price. If your home is 100% Kwikset SmartKey, the Kwikset SmartKey Re-Key Kit is unbeatable for ease of use at $12.
For working locksmiths and high-volume users, the Summit Doorware kits offer the best pin quantity per dollar, with 50 of each pin size to handle dozens of rekeys per purchase. Budget-conscious homeowners doing a single property should start with the Prime-Line E 2400 (Kwikset) or E 2402 (Schlage) for under $20. Whatever you choose, a locksmith rekeying kit is one of the highest-ROI tools you can buy for home security in 2026.
If you enjoy hands-on home projects like rekeying locks, you might also want to explore our picks for the best pizza oven accessory kits for home or the best under cabinet lighting kits task-light guide for more weekend upgrade ideas.