An interchangeable core is a removable lock core that a control key lifts from its housing in seconds, no disassembly required. SFIC cores use a universal figure 8 profile that fits housings across brands; LFIC cores are full size, manufacturer specific cores that fit only their own brand’s cylinder body. We pin, swap, master key and install both across the DMV.
An SFIC stacks two shear lines in one figure 8 plug: the operating line drives the throw member, a higher control line frees the control lug. A control key turned 15 degrees slides the core out, leaving the lever, mortise housing or exit device untouched. LFIC cores do the same inside a full size cylinder body at roughly 20 degrees.
SFIC cores run six or seven chambers on the A2 system with 0.0125 inch depth increments across Best style keyways. LFIC cores follow each manufacturer’s own keyway and pinning. Both support master keying and construction cores, which is why District of Columbia office suites depend on them, and call us to keep them keyed.
Three situations drive most of our interchangeable core work. A lost or terminated key means a whole building needs new change keys, fast, without touching a single lever. A core that lifts on an operating key instead of the control key is a DIY pinning error at the control shear line. And cross keying across a master system points to worn master wafers and build up pins.
We solve each with the core itself: pull it, gauge every chamber, and pin a fresh core from the A2 kits on our trucks while the old one comes back to the shop. Locked out? Our mobile units respond 24/7. Call (240) 345-1455 in Maryland or (202) 800-2622 in Washington DC and NOVA.
Rekeying is where this format earns its keep: we pin cores to your current key, build keyed alike sets, and design master systems with control, master and change keys for multi door properties. Every core is matched on SFIC or LFIC, six or seven pin, keyway family, throw member and finish, so it drops into your existing housing without drilling. Construction cores let a contractor hold access until handover, then one control key turn hands the building to you.
Interchangeable core installation starts with compatibility checks: housing type, core length, control key rotation, throw member fit and door prep. Our own technicians handle every job: measure, match, install, test operation and control function before we leave. Our in-house door expert fixes frame alignment the same visit.
A control key, a pinning kit and one visit: we pin SFIC and LFIC cores to your key, keyed alike or master keyed. Free estimate.
Any interchangeable core locksmith can sell a core. Pinning two shear lines correctly, then cutting a control key that holds, takes 25 years of practice.
We identify SFIC keyways by profile and LFIC cores by manufacturer before pinning, so every new core still accepts your existing operating and control keys.
Our trucks carry uncombinated SFIC cores, A2 pinning kits, capping tools and key blanks, so most core rekeys and swaps finish in a single visit.
A core in a misaligned lever or exit device wears its throw member. Our door specialist squares the door and strike during the same appointment.
Our locksmiths pin control and operating shear lines in A2 increments daily, reading worn master wafers and build up pins before they strand your tenants.
Lost your control key? We lift the core without it, pin a fresh one, and cut new control and operating keys. Call (240) 345-1455 today
Interchangeable cores are one of many cylinder formats we handle daily. See the other cylinder types our technicians rekey, master key, install and maintain across Maryland, Washington DC and Northern Virginia.
Straight answers from King Locksmith Technicans to on Interchangeable Core (SFIC & LFIC) questions customers ask us most.
(240) 345-1455
We quote free on site. Price depends on SFIC or LFIC format, pin count, keyway and whether you need new control keys, with no hidden fees. Call (240) 345-1455.
Only if the hardware carries an SFIC figure 8 housing. Many levers, mortise locks and exit devices do; others need an LFIC or a housing swap, which we confirm on site.
