Framon

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Overview

Framon Manufacturing Company, Inc. manufactures key duplicators, code machines, and locksmith tools for professional locksmiths. It serves markets including automotive and detention industries with in-house production focused on precision equipment.²⁴⁸

History

Framon Manufacturing Company, Inc. was founded in 1971 by Frank and Barbara Agius. The company expanded with a full machine shop in 1987, entered the automotive key machine market in the 2000s, acquired assets of Blue Dog Key Company in 2015, and relocated to a new 6600 square foot facility in Alpena in 2018.²

Product Lines

Product Line	Positioning	Price Range
Key Duplicators (e.g., DBM-1)	Flat steel and automotive key duplication	$1,500 - $4,000
Code Machines	Key cutting from codes	$2,000 - $5,000
Automotive Key Machines	Competition with Ilco and Silca	$3,000 - $6,000
Detention Key Machines	Secure facility key cutting	$2,500 - $5,500
Locksmith Accessories	Tools and supplies	$50 - $500

Manufacturing

Products are manufactured in-house at the company's facility in Alpena, Michigan, following addition of a full machine shop in 1987. A Fadal CNC machining center supports production.²

Notable Products

DBM-1 - Flat steel key duplicator invented in 1986 for accurate duplication.
Blue Dog Key Line - Acquired product line expanded for odd key searches with online catalog.
Automotive Key Machines - Key machines competing with industry leaders like Ilco and Silca.
Detention Industry Machines - Specialized key equipment for secure facilities.

Reputation

Framon is regarded by locksmith professionals for durable, precise key machines tailored to specific needs like automotive and detention applications. Strengths include in-house manufacturing and responsiveness to lock shop demands; limited scale compared to larger competitors is noted.²⁴⁶

Sources (8)