Picking a lock on a metal filing cabinet may seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to pick a metal filing cabinet lock.

Introduction

Metal filing cabinets are ubiquitous in offices and homes, used to securely store important documents and valuables. While the lock on a filing cabinet provides security, there are times when you may need access but have lost the key. Rather than force the cabinet open and risk damaging it, picking the lock is a non-destructive way to gain entry.

The good news is that most basic cabinet locks are pin and tumbler mechanisms, which can be picked open with some clever manipulation. With a little patience and the proper tools, you can learn to pick open a metal filing cabinet lock. We will walk through the step-by-step process, from understanding the lock components to applying tension and manipulating the pins.

How Pin and Tumbler Locks Work

To understand how to pick a filing cabinet lock, you need to know how pin and tumbler locks work. This type of lock has a cylindrical plug with key cuts along the bottom edge. The plug sits inside a cylindrical housing and is attached to an actuator or cam that engages the locking mechanism when turned.

The key plug is filled with pin stacks – small pins that are spring loaded and ride inside channels that align from the plug into the housing. Each pin stack is made up of two pins – a key pin that touches the bottom of the key cut, and a driver pin which springs against the top of the plug.

When no key is present, the pin stacks bridge between the plug and housing, preventing the plug from turning. When the proper key is inserted, its cuts align at the shear line, allowing the key pins to clear the housing and the driver pins to stay inside the plug. This separation breaks the connection between the two cylinders, allowing the plug to rotate and open the lock.

Pin and tumbler lock diagram. Image source: Art of Lock Picking

Tools Needed

Picking open a filing cabinet lock requires some specialized tools. Here is what you will need:

• Tension wrench – This is used to apply rotational tension to the plug while picking. It fits into the bottom keyway and allows controlled turning of the cylinder.
• Pick – The pick is used to manipulate the pin stacks up and down. Hook and ball picks allow lifting key pins while raking picks can set multiple pins quickly.
• Lock lubricant – A dry lock can make picking difficult. Lubricant such as graphite or dry PTFE powder eases friction. Never use oil or wet lubricant.
• Flashlight – Good lighting lets you see the lock interior through the keyway. A flashlight can provide directed illumination.
• Tweezers or pick tip – Useful for clearing out any obstructing debris inside the lock.

Specialized lock picking tools. Image source: Art of Lock Picking

Quality tools are available through locksport organizations, specialized vendors, or can be fashioned DIY from windshield wiper inserts and street sweeper bristles.

Prepping the Lock

Before attempting to pick the lock, you need to prep the keyway:

• Examine the keyway – Peering inside with a flashlight, look for any obstructing debris or corroded pins. Insert pick and tension wrench to verify they fit properly.
• Lubricate the keyway – Use graphite or dry PTFE powder to lubricate the pins. This will ease friction and binding during picking. Spray or sprinkle a small amount inside.
• Jiggle and turn – Insert tension wrench and pick and jiggle them slightly while applying very light torque. This helps loosen the cylinder and distribute lube.
• Reset pins – Rotate the plug fully in one direction until it stops, then rotate fully in the opposite direction. This resets the pin stacks to their locked state.

The lock should now be prepped for picking. Take your time and do not force any tools.

Single Pin Picking Technique

Single pin picking, also called SPP, is the standard method for manipulating pin and tumbler locks. It involves using the pick to lift pins individually while applying tension with the wrench. Here are the steps:

Step 1: Apply Tension

Insert the tension wrench into the bottom of the keyway and apply light rotational torque in the direction the key would turn to unlock. This torque creates a ledge for the driver pins to get caught on. Do not over-torque initially, as it may bind the plug.

Step 2: Insert Pick and Locate First Binding Pin

With tension applied, insert the pick gently. While scrubbing the pick over the pins, pay attention to any sticking or clinging feedback. This indicates a binding pin. The binding pin will be springy and resist upward force. You want to locate pin one, the first binding pin.

Step 3: Set Pin One

Focusing on pin one only, lift it with upward force until you feel or hear a click. This indicates the driver pin clearing the shear line. Allow the pick to fall slightly while maintaining lift on that pin. Pin one is now set.

Step 4: Locate Next Binding Pin

Still applying tension, probe the remaining pins for the next binder, pin two. It may be a different pin. Lift it in the same way until set. Rinse and repeat down the line, setting one pin at a time.

Step 5: Set Remaining Pins Until Lock Opens

Keep lifting pins individually, maintaining sets, until the plug fully rotates, popping the lock open. The more difficult part is figuring out which pin to tackle next and in what order. Have patience.

Here is a video demonstration of single pin picking on a filing cabinet lock:

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Single pin picking takes practice, but with time you can become proficient at opening pin tumbler cabinet locks.

Raking Technique

An alternative picking technique is called raking. It uses a pick shaped like a wavgy line to rapidly lift and set multiple pins at once:

• Insert tension wrench and light torque as normal
• Insert rake pick and scrub it quickly over the pins at a slight angle, bouncing the pins randomly
• Repeat, changing pressure and angle until pins sets and lock opens

Raking is less precise but can be faster than SPP when pins are loose. It takes practice to get the scrubbing motion smooth. Here is a video demo of lock raking:

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Use raking when SPP is not progressing. The two techniques can complement each other.

What If It Won’t Open?

With practice, you should eventually get the hang of picking open a basic cabinet lock. But sometimes you may encounter obstacles:

• Insufficient tension – More torque may be needed to create binding. Don’t overdo it.
• PIN seized up – Try lubricating more. Jiggle pick to free sticky pins.
• Non-standard pins – Some locks have countermeasures against picking like angled or mushroom pins.
• Incorrect tool – Use a different pick or wrench that fits the keyway better.
• Damaged lock – Corrosion or wear may make the lock unpickable. Force may be needed.
• Timelock mechanism – Some cabinet locks bar access during certain times or days.

If picking is not working, carefully reexamine the tools, technique, and lock. But in the end, nondestructive forced entry may be required.

Legality of Lock Picking

Before picking any lock, it is crucial that you have the legal right or authorization to do so. Lock picking laws vary greatly by state. Possession of lock picks is outright banned in some places unless you are a locksmith. In other areas it falls into a legal grey area. Only pick locks that you own or have permission from the owner to manipulate. Understand the laws in your jurisdiction before attempting to pick a lock.

Preventing Unwanted Entry

While useful in a pinch, picking is generally not the best way to secure your filing cabinets. To thwart unwanted entry:

• Install high security locks – Upgrading to pins with security features can prevent picking.
• Use additional padlocks – A second lock provides redundancy if one is compromised.
• Store valuables at a bank – Keep your most sensitive items in a safety deposit box not on-site.

Relying solely on a basic cabinet lock is not foolproof. Enhance security layers based on your specific risks.

Conclusion

Picking open a metal filing cabinet is possible for someone with determination and the proper skills. With specialized picking tools, an understanding of pin tumblers, and techniques like single pin picking or raking, the lock can be opened without force. Success requires patience, practice, and finesse. Just be certain you have legal permission first. And be aware that a standard cabinet lock provides limited protection against a knowledgeable intruder. But used judiciously, lock picking provides a handy way to gain entry when keys go missing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Picking Filing Cabinet Locks

Picking filing cabinet locks is a useful skill to learn, but also raises some common questions. Here are answers to a few frequently asked questions:

Is It Illegal To Pick Locks?

• Legality depends on the jurisdiction
• Some US states allow ownership of lockpicks with no law against recreational picking
• Others only prohibit possession of tools if there is intent to commit a crime
• A few states outright ban owning picks or picking locks at all
• Know your local laws before picking any locks

What Tools Do I Need To Pick A Lock?

• Tension wrench – Applies torque to the lock plug
• Lock pick – Used to manipulate the pin stacks; various types
• Lubricant – Graphite or dry PTFE; never oil
• Flashlight – Illuminates the lock interior
• Tweezers – Helps clear debris and stuck pins

What Is Easier To Pick – Padlocks Or Door Locks?

• Padlocks are generally considered easier
• Their keyways are more exposed and have less clutter
• Padlocks have fewer pins than many standard door locks
• Beginners often start with padlocks before moving to pinned door locks

How Long Does It Take To Pick A Lock?

• Skill level and lock complexity determine speed
• Novice pickers may spend 30+ minutes picking open a lock
• With practice, simple padlocks can be picked in under a minute
• High security locks take longer due to extra pins and defenses

What Is The Most Secure Lock Against Picking?

• Disc detainer locks offer the highest pick resistance
• Pin and tumbler locks with security pins or rotation are also very secure
• Upgrading to high security certified locks thwarts most picking
• Multiple redundant locks also help prevent compromise

Conclusion

Lock picking requires specialized skills and tools but can be a rewarding hobby. Make sure to pick ethically and legally, respecting property rights. While no lock is impervious, modern high-security options deter all but the most dedicated intruders. Practicing picking can give you insight into mechanical lock vulnerabilities and may provide an emergency way to gain entry when keys are lost.

How to Pick a Metal Filing Cabinet Lock Step-by-Step

Picking open a metal filing cabinet lock requires methodical technique. Follow these step-by-step instructions to successfully pick open a basic pin tumbler cabinet lock:

Gather Necessary Lock Picking Tools

• Tension wrench to apply torque to the lock cylinder
• Hook pick to lift and manipulate individual pins
• Rake pick to quickly jostle and set multiple pins
• Lock lubricant – powdered graphite works well
• Flashlight to illuminate the lock interior
• Tweezers or a pick to remove debris and obstructions

Prepare the Lock

• Examine the keyway for any debris, inserts pick and wrench to test fit
• Apply lock lubricant into the keyway to ease friction
• Jiggle tension wrench and pick to spread lubricant and loosen core

Apply Tension

• Insert tension wrench fully and apply light torque in the opening direction
• Maintain torque throughout entire process of picking

Locate Binding Pins

• Insert hook pick gently without force
• Scrub pick over pins while feeling for cling, binding pins will provide springy resistance

Single Pin Pick Binding Pins

• When binding pin found, lift that pin only using upward force until set click is heard or felt
• Set pin will drop slightly but still be lifted from housing shelf
• Find next binding pin and repeat lifting process until lock opens

Troubleshoot Issues

• Adjust torque if pins won’t bind or seem stuck
• Lubricate more if excessive friction
• Try a different pick or wrench if tools don’t fit well
• Switch to raking if single pin picking is not progressing

Retension and Reset Pins Between Attempts

• Rotate plug fully clockwise and then fully counter-clockwise
• This resets all the pins for next picking attempt

Do Not Force Tools

• Picking requires light, finessed touch
• Forcing will only jam and damage the lock further

With practice and patience, you can learn to pick open most standard pin tumbler filing cabinet locks using this process. Make sure to only pick locks you own or have permission to manipulate.

Tips and Tricks for Picking Metal Filing Cabinet Locks

Picking open a filing cabinet lock requires skill. Here are some useful tips and tricks to help you successfully pick your way in:

• Use quality picks – Cheap picks bend and make picking harder. Invest in good hook, rake, and tension tools.
• Lube it up – Dust some graphite powder or dry PTFE into the lock. This eases friction and binding pins.
• Take it slow – Don’t rush the process. Methodically pick each pin and tension properly.
• Reset often – Fully turn the plug clockwise and counter-clockwise to reset pins frequently.
• Listen closely – Picks make distinctive sounds when setting or binding pins.
• Try raking – If SPP fails, switch it up to a raking technique for quick pins sets.
• Check for wear – Excessively worn or damaged locks may not be pickable.
• Have the right light – A directed flashlight illuminates the keyway for inspection.
• Tension evenly – Apply torque smoothly in increments. Too much can bind the core.
• Use pinpoint precision – Sloppy picking leads to slipped pins. Be accurate and finessed.
• Take breaks – Walk away rather than get frustrated. Come back fresh.
• Consider professional help – For high security locks, call a locksmith for non-destructive opening.

Don’t force anything, keep tools away from children, and remember to pick locks responsibly and legally. With practice, a gentle touch, patience, and proper techniques, most filing cabinet locks can eventually be persuaded to pop open.

How to Prevent Someone From Picking Your Filing Cabinet Lock

While basic cabinet pin tumbler locks can often be picked open, there are ways to prevent or deter potential intruders:

• Install pick-resistant locks – Upgrade to a lock with security pins, rotation, or sidebars to thwart picking.
• Use redundant locks – Add secondary locks like padlocks which must also be compromised.
• Replace compromised locks – If a lock is picked, replace it to ensure security integrity.
• Store valuables off-site – Keep your most critical items in a secure bank vault instead.
• Monitor locks – Look for signs of tampering like scratches or lubricant residue.
• Deny physical access – Keep filing cabinets in locked, monitored rooms.
• Create loud alarms – Install alarms that activate if cabinets are disturbed.
• Layer security – Use CCTV cameras, guards, card access along with cabinet locks.
• Keep keys secure – Restrict key access to deter insider jobs.

A basic filing cabinet lock alone provides limited protection. Enhance security by upgrading locks, adding redundancies, and restricting physical access to thwart potential intruders.

Conclusion

Picking open metal filing cabinet locks is a useful skill to learn, both for gaining legitimate access when keys are lost and to understand vulnerabilities in basic pin tumbler locks. With the proper tools, knowledge, practice, and techniques like single pin picking and raking, these common cabinet locks can be opened non-destructively. Security pins, enhanced locks, strict access control, and redundant layers help protect your valuables against unwanted intrusion. Remember to pick ethically and legally, only manipulating locks you rightfully own. Lock picking provides insights into mechanical security and may provide emergency access, but relies on gaps in basic cabinet lock protection.

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