The short answer
What the question actually means
A handyman can swap a lock, but a locksmith changes how the lock functions. Rekeying is the process of altering the internal pins of an existing cylinder so a new key works and the old one does not. A handyman typically removes the entire hardware set and installs a brand new one to achieve the same result. While both methods secure your door, rekeying preserves your existing hardware and ensures the mechanism is calibrated correctly. The question is whether you want to replace the metal on your door or the security inside it.
The brands that matter
Precision depends on the brand. Schlage and Kwikset are the standards across Northwest Florida, each requiring specific pin kits and tolerances. High-security brands like Medeco or Mul-T-Lock use complex sidebars and telescopic pins that a general handyman cannot service. If your hardware is professional grade, a generalist lacks the specialized tools to re-pin the cylinder without damaging the internal springs. Matching the technician's expertise to your specific brand is the only way to ensure the lock actually turns.
Pricing — what to expect
How to choose
Common follow-up questions
Expect a flat service call fee plus a per-cylinder charge. Handymen often quote a lower labor rate but require you to buy new hardware, which increases the total cost. A locksmith provides the labor and the keying on-site. When choosing, ask if they pin the lock in a mobile van or take it to a shop. If they cannot cut the key on-site, they are not a full-service mobile provider. Most clients ask if one key can work for every door; the answer is yes.
How locksmiths actually work the job
A locksmith removes the cylinder from the door and uses a pinning kit to swap the internal brass pins. They measure the depth of each cut on the new key and match it to the corresponding chamber in the plug. This requires a level of precision measured in thousandths of an inch. After the pins are set, the technician tests the shear line to ensure the plug rotates smoothly. This process happens inside the lock, meaning your door frames and strike plates remain untouched and undisturbed.
When to call vs when to wait
Call a locksmith immediately if you have lost your keys or moved into a new home in Northwest Florida. In these cases, the security of the internal mechanism is the priority. Wait for a handyman if you simply dislike the look of your current hardware and want a complete aesthetic upgrade. If the lock is physically broken or the bolt is jammed, a handyman can replace the unit, but only a locksmith can diagnose if the failure is in the cylinder or the door.
Bottom line
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