What Framon Manufacturing does

Framon Manufacturing Company, Inc. is a privately held, family-owned manufacturer of professional key cutting machines, locksmith tools, and key code retrieval software, founded in 1971 in Alpena, Michigan by Frank and Barbara Agius. Its core product portfolio is organized into code machines (Framon #2 flagship, FRA-2001, TKM-100, KX-1, Framon #2J), duplicators (MD-1, Express, DBM-1, Sidewinder, JD-12), combination machines (DC-300, Sidewinder 2), a tools and accessories catalog (HRS-1, Bullseye Installation Jig, Tubular Lock Saw, SFIC Pinning Block, Impressioning Tool, motors, cutting wheels), and the Genericode/GCODE Online/CardXpress software suite containing over 8,500 code series and 800,000+ padlock codes. Underlying technology emphasizes precision mechanical engineering — heat-treated aluminum and steel construction, sealed ball bearings, carbide cutters with tolerances to .0005 inch — paired with a proprietary key code database integrated with third-party automatic key machines via data-pipeline links.

The company's revenue model combines one-time hardware sales (key machines, tools, precut keys, accessories), perpetual software licensing (Genericode at a $695 dealer price, CardXpress at $99.95), and recurring software subscriptions (GCODE Online at $99.95/year with up to 3 concurrent connections). Distribution runs through an authorized North American distributor network supplemented by direct e-commerce via framon.com and the 2015-acquired Blue Dog Keys division. Customers are predominantly independent professional locksmiths and lock shops, with secondary reach into automotive locksmiths, institutional locksmiths, detention facilities, and (newly) hollow metal door companies via the 2025 HRS-1 launch.

Name

Framon Manufacturing

Legal name

Framon Manufacturing Company, Inc.

Website

https://framon.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1971

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

Framon Manufacturing is a family-owned, Alpena, Michigan-based manufacturer of professional key cutting machines, locksmith tools, and key code retrieval software, serving independent locksmiths across North America through distributors and direct e-commerce since 1971.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Locksmith Equipment / Key Cutting Machines

NAICS

Machine Tool Manufacturing (333517), Cutting Tool and Machine Tool Accessory Manufacturing (333515), Saw Blade and Handtool Manufacturing (332216)

SIC

Machine Tools, Metal Cutting Types (3541)

akta.pro primary industry

Key Management, Duplication & Locksmith Services (HSAHAEAD)

akta.pro secondary industries

Metal Cutting Tools, Tooling & Workholding (Cutters, Inserts, Chucks, Fixtures) (IMAHADAB), Industrial Saws & Cutting Systems (Band/Circular Saws, Abrasive Cutting) (IMAHADAL)

Keywords

• Key cutting machines
• Locksmith tools
• Key code software
• Tubular key machines
• Key duplicating machines

Headquarters

HQ city

Alpena

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Operations, Supply Chain, Personnel, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Key Machine Sales: Sale of manual and electronic key cutting machines including code machines, duplicators, and combination machines. One-time hardware purchase with one-year warranty.
2. Software Licensing: Genericode desktop software sold as perpetual license ($695 dealer price) with optional yearly updates. GCODE Online offered as annual subscription ($99.95/year). CardXpress available as download ($99.95), CD-ROM, or USB ($119.95).
3. Precut Key Orders: Sale of precut keys (primarily Isuzu) at $23 for first key, $9.50 for each additional key. Process handled through Blue Dog Keys division starting January 2026.
4. Tools and Accessories: Sale of specialized locksmith tools including impressioning tools, pinning blocks, installation jigs, and replacement parts. Includes offerings like TLS1 ($49.95), Quick Pull blades ($34.95 each).

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels3 records

Marketing channels5 records

Core offering

Framon Manufacturing designs, manufactures, and sells professional key cutting machines (manual and electronic code machines, duplicators, and combination code/duplicator machines) and a line of specialized locksmith tools and accessories. The company also develops and licenses the Genericode key-code retrieval software (desktop perpetual license, annual GCODE Online subscription, and CardXpress for code-card creation), and operates the Blue Dog Keys division for precut keys and odd-key lookup.

Product overview

Framon Manufacturing is a manufacturer of professional key machines and locksmith tools founded in 1971. The company offers a diversified portfolio of products organized into three main categories: Key Machines (code machines, duplicators, and combination machines), Tools (specialized locksmith tools), and Software (code retrieval systems). Key machines include the flagship Framon #2 manual code machine, FRA-2001 electronic code machine, TKM-100 tubular key machine, KX-1 high-speed code machine, and specialized detention key machines (#2J, JD-12). Duplicator products include MD-1, Express, DBM-1 flat steel duplicator, Sidewinder, and Sidewinder 2. The company also offers a full line of accessories including cutting wheels, motors, and work lights. Software products include Genericode (desktop code retrieval system) and GCODE Online (web-based subscription service). The company acquired Blue Dog Keys in 2015, which now handles precut key orders. A one-year parts, labor, and freight warranty is included with all key machines.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• Blue Dog Keys: A division of Framon Manufacturing Company that processes Isuzu Truck key orders and sells precut keys, key blanks, and odd key searches online. Acquired by Framon in 2015.

Products and services

• Framon #2 (FRA2) Code Machine Manual key code machine that originates a wide range of cylinder, automotive, motorcycle, padlock, letterbox, safety deposit, interchangeable core, and high-security keys using the included Depth & Space Manual with over 900 cylinder key charts. Constructed from heat-treated aluminum and steel with no small gears or plastic parts.
• FRA-2001 Electronic Code Machine Electronic code machine for cylinder and automotive keys, integrated with Genericode software for key generation by code, key origination by manufacturer, history storage, multi-system key blank viewing, automotive key progression, and vehicle-specific lookups by make, model, and year.
• TKM-100 Tubular Key Machine Tubular key cutting machine with a self-adjusting collet accommodating all three sizes of tubular keys, a durable carbide cutter, precision dial indicator, and accuracy to .001 inch. Supports regular, ward, and master cuts.
• KX-1 High-Speed Code Machine High-speed code machine (the 'Electric Punch') for high-security cylinder keys, using interchangeable depth and space cams that swap in seconds, cutting keys accurate to .0005 inch in about fifteen seconds. Endorsed by Assa, Corbin, Sargent, and Dorma.
• Framon #2J Detention Code Machine Advanced version of the Framon #2 modified for detention key cutting, with a special vise and extended spacing crank for larger keys. Cuts Folger Adam, Mogul, Southern Steel, and Adtec detention keys as well as standard cylinder, automotive, motorcycle, padlock, letterbox, safety deposit, and interchangeable core keys.
• DC-300 Edge Cut Key Code Machine and Duplicator Combination code machine and duplicator for edge cut keys; code cuts a key in about 30 seconds per side and maintains .0005 inch accuracy with sealed ball bearings throughout, a double-sided vise capable of holding nearly all automotive keys, and a DC9040 cutter.
• Sidewinder 2 Manual High-Security Code Machine and Duplicator Manual combination code machine and duplicator for a wide range of high-security keys including Mercedes, BMW, Mazda, Lexus, Infiniti, Volvo, Saab, VW/Audi, Honda, Toyota, Kia/Hyundai, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet, and Pontiac. Includes six cutters, three guides, and Genericode software.
• MD-1 Manual Key Duplicator Manual key duplicator with reversible vises, flip-down key stop, adjustable guide for .001-inch adjustments, 1/6 hp motor, wire deburring brush, and carriage wipers; backed by a one-year warranty.
• Express Semi-Automatic Cylinder Key Duplicator Semi-automatic duplicator with built-in tip stops for shoulderless keys, reversible tip stops for I/C type keys, and TiAlN-coated high-speed steel cutter that duplicates a six pin key in approximately 10 seconds. Discontinued - new duplicator planned for future release.
• DBM-1 Flat Steel Key Duplicator Flat steel duplicator for safe deposit box, locker, and padlock keys. Accommodates blanks up to 2.5 inches long with precision depth adjustments in .001-inch increments, a rotating guide for six cutter widths, and sealed ball bearings in the spindle.
• Sidewinder High-Security Key Duplicator Compact, reliable duplicator for high-security automotive keys including Mercedes, BMW, Mazda, Lexus, Infiniti, Volvo, Saab, VW/Audi, Honda, Toyota, GM, Ford, Chrysler/Fiat, and Subaru. Includes four carbide and cobalt cutters and free Audi/Volkswagen vises.
• JD-12 Detention Key Duplicator Duplicator exclusively designed for paracentric and mogul detention keys, with CNC-grade linear ball bearings on both X and Y axis and interchangeable guides for paracentric and mogul cutting using solid carbide cutting wheels.
• Genericode Key Code Retrieval Software (Desktop) Desktop key code retrieval and management software for locksmiths, with vehicle/motorcycle/padlock lookup, key blank search, depth and space lookup, information directory, locksmith ledger index, progression, history, sidewinder codes, key blank cross-reference, cylinder pinning chart, and cycle by make/model/year. Includes over 800,000 codes for combination padlocks. Sold as perpetual license at suggested dealer price $695 with three activation codes for multiple computers at one location, plus optional paid version upgrades and unlocks.
• GCODE Online Key Code Retrieval (Web Subscription) Web-based key code retrieval service providing real-time access to codes, progressions, key blank cross-references, and support for popular key machines. Includes automatic updates and support for up to 3 simultaneous connections within the same organization. Annual subscription at $99.95 per year.
• CardXpress Code Card Creation Software Windows (XP and higher) software for creating key cards for HPC 1200 and Ilco Universal code machines. Registered to a single computer, available as download ($99.95) or on CD-ROM/USB stick ($119.95).
• Hinge Reinforcement Straightener (HRS-1) Standalone tool for hollow metal door companies, service companies, and field technicians that applies even pressure to return bent hinge reinforcement plates to their original position without removing the door.
• Bullseye Installation Jig (BULL) Self-contained mortise jig for installers drilling wood or metal doors, with 2-1/8 inch face bore, 2-3/8 inch or 2-3/4 inch backset, 1/8 inch pilot holes, and compatibility with door thicknesses from 1-1/4 inch to 2-3/4 inches.
• Ford Ignition Face/Core Removal Tool (TTFDF) Specialty tool designed by Tom Thill for removing cylinders in in-dash ignitions, compatible with over 36 vehicle models produced between 2015 and 2024, including Ford F-150, F-250, F-350, F-550, F-650, F-750, and Bronco.
• Safe Deposit Killer Kit (SDK1) Kit for drilling S&G and Diebold safe deposit box locks when traditional methods are impractical. Includes three guides and two hole saws stored in a plastic carrying case. Made in the USA.
• SFIC Pinning/Capping Block (CPB1, CPB140) Tool for locksmiths working with interchangeable cores; CPB1 fits standard SFIC and CPB140 fits Kaba Peaks .140 cylinders. Includes pinning/capping block, ejecting pin, and capping tool for quick pin ejection and chamber loading. Made in the USA.
• Framon Impressioning Tool (IMMS001) Self-contained impressioning tool that requires no wrenches and has no screws that can strip out; securely holds practically any key blank to prevent rocking or slipping during key impressioning.
• Tubular Lock Saw (TLS1) Tool for opening tubular locks when the key is lost; drills out bottom pins to allow insertion of a blank tubular key. Fits any 3/8 inch or 1/2 inch drive drill. Made in the USA. Sold at a suggested dealer price of $49.95.
• DT-1 Frame Dimpling Tool Tool for installing hollow metal door frames in the field by adding a recess during dimpling so lag or toggle bolts fit flush against the edge of the frame. Double-sided for extended use.
• Blue Dog Keys Precut Keys and Odd-Key Search Service Division of Framon Manufacturing offering precut keys (including Isuzu truck keys at $23 for the first key and $9.50 for each additional key) and an online key blank catalog for odd key searches via bluedogkeys.com.

Quantifiable outcome

• Machines maintain accuracy for decades with minimal maintenance
• +2 more outcomes

Named customers10 records

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration1 record

Feature5 records

Partnerships

Five partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• Blue Dog KeyscoreOthers · 1 January 2015Framon acquired the assets of Blue Dog Key Company after owner Liam Gribben passed away in 2015. The company was moved to Michigan, expanded in product line, and set up an online catalog to assist in odd key searches. Now operates as a division handling precut keys and key blanks.
• Laser Key ProductscoreTechnology or Integration · 1 January 2014Framon partnered with Laser Key Products to provide codes for their line of automatic key machines. Gcode software was modified to send cutting information directly to the 3-D Pro, Xtreme, and Elite machines from Laser Key Products.
• Gale JohnsoncoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2000Partnership with Gale Johnson to turn the Reed Code System into a Windows-based computer program originally known as Computext. The program evolved into Genericode/Gcode and has been used by thousands of locksmiths globally. Gale passed away in 2021 and Framon purchased his share from his family.
• Assa High Security LocksminorStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 1988Assa contracted Framon to produce a dedicated machine (PS-6000T) to cut their Twin 6000 keys. This relationship led to the development of the KX-1 machine in 1997.
• Locksmith Ledger / Bill ReedminorGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 January 1985Framon founder Frank Agius partnered with Bill Reed of Locksmith Ledger to provide free educational programs to locksmiths. The Frank and Bill Show made over 300 stops educating nearly 10,000 locksmiths across US, Canada, and Europe.

Scale indicators5 records

Recent moves8 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Laser Key Products: Laser Key Products manufactures automatic and electronic key cutting machines (3-D Pro, Xtreme, Elite). They are a direct peer in the locksmith key-cutting equipment category and also a Framon technology integration partner for Genericode software.
• HPC (High Power Engineering / Curt Manufacturing): HPC is a major manufacturer of key cutting machines and locksmith tools (Piranha, Elite, Blue Lightning). They compete head-to-head with Framon in the professional key machine category worldwide and also make code card systems like CardXpress (which Framon resells).
• Keyline (Bianchi 1770): Keyline is an Italian manufacturer of professional key cutting machines, duplicators, and key blanks. They offer comparable electronic and manual code cutting machines to Framon's lineup, targeting the same locksmith trade customer base globally.
• A-1 Security Manufacturing: A-1 Security Products manufactures key cutting machines, locksmith tools, and key blanks. They serve similar professional locksmith customers with comparable product lines, making them a close direct peer in the North American locksmith equipment market.

Broad incumbents

• Ilco / Kaba / dormakaba: Ilco (now part of dormakaba/ASSA ABLOY) is one of the largest manufacturers of key blanks, key cutting machines, and locksmith supplies. They serve a much broader portfolio including locks and access control, making them a broad incumbent versus Framon's specialized focus.
• Silca: Silca is an Italian-based key cutting machine and key blank manufacturer with a large global distribution footprint. They produce electronic duplicators and code machines comparable to Framon's FRA-2001 and DC-300 but operate at broader scale across multiple regions.
• Strattec Security Corporation: Strattec Security manufactures locks, keys, and key cutting machines primarily for automotive OEMs. They operate at much larger scale with OEM contracts and broader lock product portfolios, making them a broad incumbent versus Framon's SMB locksmith focus.
• ASSA ABLOY: ASSA ABLOY is the world's largest lock manufacturer and owner of brands like Medeco, Sargent, and Corbin. They are a strategic partner of Framon (the KX-1 machine was designed for Assa) and a broad incumbent in the same commercial locksmith ecosystem where Framon sells specialized equipment.
• ABUS: ABUS is a German manufacturer of locks, keys, and security products with a global distribution network. They operate more broadly than Framon across consumer and commercial security, but overlap in the locksmith channel and key duplicator market.

Emerging players

• JMA (Jiangmen Machinery): JMA is a Spanish-based manufacturer of high-security key blanks and key cutting machines, growing globally with cost-competitive offerings. They are emerging as a major alternative to legacy US/EU manufacturers, competing with Framon in the professional automotive key cutting segment.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/FramonPhil
• YouTubeyoutube.com/user/FramonManufacturing
• Facebookfacebook.com/FramonMFG
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/framon

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles2 records

Subsidiaries1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Framon Manufacturing