I need to write a permanent description on a door-key... what kind of pen/instrument might last?

Use an acetate pen - like a felt pen - same as the type you use to write on CD's.

Highly waterproof - very hard to remove.

Buy a small nib one - should just be enough room to write Garage / Back door etc.

Certainly the cheaper option

Remove and old writing with a piece of wet or dry sandpaper or an emery board (Same as you use on your nails)

Good luck.

Boris

Engraving the key is the best way but wont be easy to control...

for an easier way, why not colour code the key using nail varnish.. it will eventually wear away but how easy is it to add a little more, say in a year or two...

You can do it with a simple, corundum tipped glass cutter, which costs about £2 from any hardware store. Quite a handy tool for permanently marking just about anything actually. That's what I use.

Hi Golfgirl! You are a bit under-par today. Most places that do key cutting also offer engraving. Put the two things together and what have You got..................?

You need to get an electric engraver to write on metal. Hardware stores and tool stores should carry them

Easy..they sell rubber key identification covers that slip right over the handle end of the key...You get multiple colored covers per pack..and available at any walmart or where they sell /cut keys...

http://www.clksupplies.com/shop/product_info.php?c...

http://www.lockingsystems.com/KeyCovers.htm

well.. if u have 2 keys the same.. then you know the 1 without the engraving is for... or belongs to.....

wouldnt that b easier..?

go back to the key shop, they have the tool

they might even do it for free

I use nail varnish it will not scratch off and last for ages