Opening a locked metal file cabinet can seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, you can gain access quickly and easily. File cabinets often contain sensitive documents, so you want to proceed carefully to avoid damaging the lock or cabinet. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process to open a locked metal file cabinet using common household items.

Gather the Necessary Supplies

To get started, you’ll need to gather a few key items:

• Tension wrench – This specialized tool is made to fit into a lock’s keyway and provide torque. You can purchase one online or make your own by bending the end of a paperclip.
• Pick – You’ll also need a narrow, rigid pick to manipulate the lock’s pins. Again, you can buy picks or fashion your own from items like bobby pins, hair pins, or thin pieces of metal.
• Flashlight – A flashlight will help you see inside the lock’s keyway clearly.
• Lubricant – A lubricant like WD-40 helps the picks glide smoothly in the lock.
• Screwdriver – A flathead screwdriver can provide torque if you don’t have a tension wrench.
• ** Hammer** – In some cases, a hammer may be needed to tap the pick to jiggle pins.
• Rags – Rags or paper towels are useful for covering the cabinet to prevent scratches while working.

With your supplies gathered, you’re ready to get started opening that locked metal file cabinet!

Examine the Lock

Before doing anything, take a moment to examine the cabinet’s lock. Is there a keyhole or just a small slit? What type of lock is it? Here are some of the most common kinds of locks used on metal file cabinets:

Pin and Tumbler Locks

These standard keyhole locks make up the majority of file cabinet locks. They have an internal mechanism consisting of pins of varying lengths. The pins must be pushed to the correct heights by the cuts on the key to allow the lock to open.

Wafer Locks

Wafer locks have a simple flat key and a very thin keyway. The key lifts wafer-shaped plates to align the lock’s internal mechanism.

Disc Locks

Instead of pins, disc locks have a row of rotating discs that the key aligns to open the lock. The keyway is shaped like a circle rather than a slit.

Tubular Locks

Tubular locks accept a tubular-shaped skeleton key. The key rotates a central cylinder to retract the lock’s latch.

Identifying the type of lock will help determine the best opening method. Pin and tumbler locks are most common, but the techniques can work on other kinds too.

Lubricate the Lock

Before inserting your pick, add a few drops of lubricant into the lock’s keyway – the slit where the key would normally go. The lubricant helps the pick slide in smoothly and reduces friction.

WD-40 works well, but you can also use powdered graphite, silicone spray, or petroleum jelly. Insert the narrow nozzle of the lubricant into the keyway and give it a few short sprays or squirts.

Apply Tension

The next step is to apply slight torque or tension to the lock’s cylindrical plug – the part that rotates when you turn the key. This torque causes the lock’s pin chambers to bind slightly against each other to help keep them aligned as you pick.

If you have a tension wrench, insert it into the bottom of the keyway and gently apply pressure clockwise. If you don’t have a wrench, you can carefully use a flathead screwdriver instead. Be careful not to apply too much force.

Insert the Pick

With tension applied, insert your pick into the top of the lock’s keyway and slide it all the way to the back. The pick must be able to reach the rearmost pin while leaving room for maneuvering.

Hold the pick gently like a pencil, keeping your wrist straight. Tension should be maintained during picking to keep the pins in position. You may need to adjust pressure occasionally.

Locate the Binding Pins

Here’s where you’ll start manipulating the lock’s internal pins. Apply very light upward pressure on the pick and slowly pull it out a pin’s width at a time, listening and feeling for binding pins.

When the pick finds a binding pin, you’ll feel it stop abruptly. That pin is stuck between the plug and shell of the lock. You may need to gently jiggle the pick to make it drop and bind.

Set the Binding Pins

Once a binding pin is located, apply slightly increased upward tension on that pin with the pick. At the same time, gently adjust the torque on the plug to keep the other pins aligned.

You’ll feel a slight click when the pin reaches the shear line and sets. Apply the same process to locate and set each binding pin until they are all aligned at shear.

Open the Lock

When all the driver and key pins are properly aligned, the cylindrical plug will rotate freely and the lock can be opened!

Carefully maintain tension and turn the plug clockwise as if turning a key. The lock should pop open. If not, some pins may not be fully set – repeat the binding process.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Having trouble getting pins to bind? Try applying more tension to the plug.
• Pins won’t stay set? Increase pick pressure and focus on one pin at a time.
• Can’t get the lock to open after setting pins? You may have overset a driver pin. Release tension and start over.

With practice and patience, you can master the art of lockpicking and successfully open most locked file cabinets! Let’s look at some additional tips for specific situations.

What if the File Cabinet Has an Internal Lock?

Some file cabinets have locking mechanisms that are built into the drawers themselves rather than the cabinet frame. These internal locks engage when the drawer is closed, often locking all drawers for security.

Internal drawer locks are challenging to pick directly. However, there’s a handy workaround:

1. Look for a small hole on the inner side wall of the drawer, often near the front.
2. Insert a straightened paperclip into the hole to press the release lever.
3. You should be able to pull the drawer open normally while the release lever is held.

The paperclip trick disengages the internal lockpins when pressure is applied, allowing the drawer to open. Once unlocked, you can access the contents or reset the combination.

Picking Tubular Locks

Tubular locks have a completely different internal mechanism but can still be picked open with special tools. Here is an overview:

• Use a tubular lock pick with a narrow, hollow half-cylinder shape to fit in the lock.
• Rotate the pick clockwise applying light pressure to bind the lock’s internal pins.
• Use an L-shaped pick to raise each pin separately while rotating the cylinder.
• When all pins are set, the tubular pick will rotate freely and unlock the cabinet.

These picks must be precision-machined to match the dimensions of the lock. Several sizes are available to match common tubular lock diameters. With practice, a tubular lock can be quickly opened.

What If the Keys Are Lost?

If you’ve lost the keys to a locked metal file cabinet, don’t panic. Calling a professional locksmith should be your last resort. There are several approaches you can try yourself first:

• Thoroughly search drawers, desks, keyboxes, etc. for any copies of the keys.
• Check if someone else in the office has a copy you can borrow.
• Look for a keycode stamped near the keyhole you can take to a locksmith.
• Try a master key if you have other matching brand file cabinets.
• Attempt to pick the lock using the techniques in this guide.
• Inspect the external mechanism for a reset button or contact combination locks.
• Remove the lock’s core cylinder if you have access and get it duplicated.
• Drill into a tubular lock to destroy it then replace the entire core.

With persistence and clever tricks, you can overcome a lost file cabinet key. Just be cautious about forceful or destructive methods on locks you don’t own.

Maintaining Proper File Cabinet Security

Once you’ve succeeded in getting into a locked file cabinet, take steps to keep it properly secured:

• Immediately change the lock or combination if needed.
• Discard any picked or damaged locks so they can’t be reused.
• Keep all keys, combinations, or pick tools in a safe location.
• Properly shred sensitive documents that need to be disposed of.
• Secure the cabinet in a locked room or office when not in use.
• Affix an external hasp-type lock as an additional layer of protection.

Proper file cabinet security is vital for protecting privacy and avoiding data breaches. Make sure to use best practices for securing cabinets after opening.

Conclusion

While gaining entry to a locked metal file cabinet can seem challenging, with the right tools and techniques it is quite achievable. Carefully apply tension, locate binding pins, set each to the shear line, and the lock should succumb to your picking skills. Internal locks, tubular mechanisms, and lost keys can complicate matters but can be overcome with special methods. Just be sure to keep cabinet contents secure once open. With determination and practice, you can ultimately unlock the secrets stowed away in that old locked file cabinet.

Frequently Asked Questions About Opening Locked File Cabinets

Opening a locked metal file cabinet without a proper key can seem like a daunting task. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about gaining access:

How do locksmiths open locked file cabinets?

Professional locksmiths have specialized tools like snap guns that can quickly dismantle cabinet locks. They also have training to open locks by impressioning keys or decoding combination locks. Destructive methods like drilling should only be used as a last resort.

What tools do I need to pick a file cabinet lock?

The basic tools are a tension wrench, pick, rags, flashlight, and lubricant. Tension wrenches and picks can be purchased or improvised from items like paperclips. Additional helpful items are a small hammer or pair of tweezers.

What’s the easiest way to open a locked file cabinet without damaging it?

Picking the lock is generally the quickest and least destructive method. With proper tools and technique, most basic pin and tumbler cabinet locks can be picked open within minutes. Locksmith impressioning of a key is also very effective.

How do you pick a lock on a metal file cabinet?

Apply tension with a wrench, insert the pick to locate binding pins, lightly set each pin while maintaining tension, and turn the plug when all pins are set to open the lock. Using proper torque and featherlight pick pressure is key.

What tool is best for forcing open a stuck file cabinet?

A pry bar can pop open a locked sliding cabinet gently if you carefully wedge it into the drawer gap. Just be cautious not to bend the cabinet frame or damage paint. A flathead screwdriver or crowbar may also work.

How can I unlock a 3-drawer file cabinet without destroying it?

First try a master key or pick the lock. If that fails, remove the lock cylinder if accessible and get it duplicated at a hardware store. As a last resort, drill into the rear of a tubular lock to destroy it while preserving the cabinet body.

I accidentally locked my key inside the file cabinet – what now?

First, see if a paperclip can release the internal locking bar through the small hole on the drawer. If not, picking the lock is your next best move. Call a locksmith only if needed, as they may have to drill the lock which can damage the cabinet.

How do I secure a file cabinet after picking it open?

Immediately change the lock or combination and properly dispose of old locks. Keep all keys or combinations safe. Secure picks and tools. Shred sensitive papers. Affix an external hasp lock if needed. Store cabinet in a private, locked room or office when not in use.

With the right approach and tools, gaining entry to a locked file cabinet without permanent damage is totally doable. Just use proper care and caution to avoid harming the cabinet or contents inside.

How to Open Locked Metal Mile Cabinet

Metal mile cabinets provide secure storage for files, documents, supplies, and other items. But what if your metal mile cabinet is locked and you’ve lost the key? Don’t panic – these cabinets can be opened with some clever tricks. Here are the step-by-step instructions for getting into a locked metal mile cabinet using common household items:

Materials Needed

• Bobby pin or paper clip
• Screwdriver
• Flashlight
• Lubricant (WD-40, etc)
• Hammer
• Pair of pliers
• Rags or towels

Step 1: Straighten the Bobby Pin

Take a bobby pin and use pliers to straighten it out. Bend one end to a 90 degree angle to create a tension wrench for the lock.

Alternatively, straighten out a large paper clip in the same way to fashion a homemade tension wrench.

Step 2: Examine the Keyhole

Take a close look at the metal cabinet’s keyhole using a flashlight. Determine what type of locking mechanism it has:

• Pin and tumbler – Most common. Has small grooves the key pins must be raised to.
• Wafer lock – Has flat key that lifts wafer tumblers.
• Tubular lock – Circular keyhole accepts tubular key.

Step 3: Lubricate the Lock

Use the lubricant’s narrow nozzle to spray a small amount inside the keyhole. This allows your picking tools to glide smoothly across the lock pins.

Step 4: Apply Tension

Insert the end of your homemade tension wrench into the bottom of the keyhole and apply very light clockwise torque. This sets the lock’s pins in place during picking.

Step 5: Insert the Pick

Take your straightened bobby pin, paperclip or another thin rigid object and insert it into the top of the keyhole. Slide it all the way to the back. Apply very gentle upward pressure.

Step 6: Locate Binding Pins

Slowly pull the pick out slightly, feeling for stuck pins. When you feel resistance, you’ve located a binding pin. Lightly jiggle the pick to set the pin.

Repeat the process until all pins are aligned to shear line. The pick should then slide freely.

Step 7: Turn the Plug

Maintain tension on your wrench and slowly turn it clockwise. The lock should turn completely and open. If not, repeat steps 5-6.

Step 8: Replace Lock

The lock is now successfully picked, but you should replace it or have it rekeyed for optimal security. Enjoy access to your metal mile cabinet!

Troubleshooting Tips

Having trouble getting the lock open? Here are some tips:

• Ensure you have binding order right – start with front pins first.
• Try increasing tension slightly if pins won’t bind.
• Use lighter pick pressure and go slow to avoid oversetting.
• Check for false set – pin may have slipped past shear line.
• Make sure pick is reaching the very back pin – adjust angle or try different pick.
• Spray more lubricant if pins seem stuck.

With some patience you can master picking open a locked metal mile cabinet! Just take it slow and light.

Conclusion

Gaining access to a locked metal mile cabinet without a key is completely doable with some DIY lockpicking techniques. With common household items like bobby pins, wrenches, and sprays, the average person can open a simple lock. Just be cautious when applying force and work carefully to avoid damage. Always properly replace or re-secure locks after picking – never leave a cabinet unlocked. With some practice and perseverance, you can unlock the hidden secrets stashed away in that old mile cabinet.