Many of us have old metal file cabinets that we’ve inherited or purchased used. While sturdy and secure, over time these cabinets can become stuck or the locks stop working properly. Unlocking a jammed metal file cabinet takes some finesse, but with the right tools and techniques, you can access the contents safely. Here’s how to unlock a metal file cabinet without damaging it in the process.

Gather the Proper Tools

Before attempting to unlock the file cabinet, make sure you have the appropriate tools on hand. This will make the job much easier. You’ll need:

• WD-40 or another lubricant spray – This will help loosen up rusted or sticky locking mechanisms. WD-40 works very well.
• Lock picking set – A basic lock picking set with tension wrenches and lock picks can help you unlock it if you’ve lost the keys. You can find affordable sets online or at hardware stores.
• Hammer – A small hammer or mallet may be needed if the lock is really stuck. Use this as a last resort.
• Flashlight – A flashlight will help you see all the locking components clearly as you work.
• Bobby pins or paper clips – These make handy lock picking tools in a pinch. Straighten them out first.
• Scissors – Scissors can be used to trim away any cabinet lining or insulation blocking the lock.
• Screwdrivers – Flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers can remove lock covers or handles if needed.
• Pry bar – A small pry bar may help pop open the lock if other methods fail. Be very careful with this.

Try Non-Destructive Techniques First

Before attempting to take apart the lock or cabinet, try these gentler unlocking methods:

Lubricate the Locking Mechanism

Spray lubricant like WD-40 into the keyhole and around all sides of the lock cylinder. Give it 5-10 minutes to penetrate. Insert the key and turn firmly several times. The lubricant will help loosen up stuck components.

Jiggle the Lock and Apply Pressure

As you turn the key back and forth, try pressing, lifting, or pulling the cabinet handle to take pressure off the lock. The lock should eventually pop open.

Pick the Lock

Use lock picking tools to unlock the cabinet without the key. This takes some skill but works on most basic cabinet locks. Insert the tension wrench and gently turn while using the pick.

Try a Bump Key

File down or purchase a blank key that fits loosely in the keyhole. Tap it gently with a hammer while turning it. This may bounce the lock pins into alignment.

Use Makeshift Lock Picks

If you don’t have real lock picks, straighten out a bobby pin or paper clip and use those to pick the lock. just be patient and gentle.

Unlatch the Hasp

Some cabinets have a simple sliding latch or hasp that locks the doors. These are easy to pry open with a flathead screwdriver. Just slide open the latch.

Remove the Lock Cylinder

As a last non-destructive option, take off the lock cylinder itself using a screwdriver. Then the cabinet will open. You’ll need to replace the cylinder after.

If none of these gentler methods work, then you can move on to more forceful techniques. But try these first to avoid damaging the cabinet. The goal is to get inside without breaking anything.

More Aggressive Techniques to Open the Cabinet

If you’ve tried all of the above and the lock still won’t budge, it’s time to bring out the heavy artillery. Here are some more aggressive methods to get the file cabinet open:

Hammer and Chisel

Use a hammer and small chisel to break the lock cylinder off the face of the cabinet door. Position the chisel just above or below the cylinder and tap the chisel end with the hammer until the cylinder breaks free.

Drill Out the Lock

Use a power drill with a thin drill bit to drill into the lock cylinder. Drilling into the mechanism will destroy the lock but open the cabinet.

Pry the Drawer Open

Wedge the end of a pry bar or flathead screwdriver between the cabinet frame and drawer. Gently pry the drawer open. Take care not to bend or warp the drawer.

Remove the Lock’s Cover Plate

The cover plate around the lock cylinder usually pops off with a flathead screwdriver. Removing this gives access to the locking lug.

Access the Locking Lug

With the cover off, look for a rectangular locking lug that slides in and out of the door frame. Move the lug with a screwdriver to retract the lock.

Take Off Door Hardware

Removing handles or trim pieces may provide access to lock components. You can then unlock specific parts.

Pick Apart the Lock Mechanism

Take the lock fully apart using screwdrivers. This lets you access and fix sticking components so you can unlock it.

These techniques are more likely to damage the cabinet, so only use them as a last resort. And be very careful prying anything or using power tools near the locking mechanisms.

Unstick a Dial Combination Lock

For file cabinets with dial combination locks instead of key locks, different unlocking methods are needed. Follow these steps for a stuck dial lock:

Lubricate the Dial and Mechanism

As with a key lock, lubricate the dial and interior mechanism thoroughly with a penetrating oil like WD-40. Let it soak in for 10 minutes.

Jiggle and Turn the Dial

Try turning the dial slowly in one direction while gently tugging on the cabinet handle. The oil and jiggling together may free up the lock.

Reset the Combination

Try resetting the combination if you know the default factory code. This unlocks it so you can set a new combo.

Remove the Dial Exterior

Take off the dial knob by removing the small screw or prying off its cover. This lets you access the mechanism.

Access the Internal Mechanism

With the dial removed, you can alter the internal components to unlock it. Only do this if you’re comfortable with precision tinkering.

Drill Into the Internal Mechanism

As a last resort, very carefully drill a small hole into the interior mechanism. Drilling a certain part will destroy the lock but open the cabinet.

Dial locks require a more delicate approach. Avoid prying or forcing the dial. With lubrication and patience, you can usually get them open without damage.

Preventing Stuck Locks in the Future

To help avoid dealing with a stuck lock again, here are some tips:

• Use the cabinet lock regularly so it doesn’t seize up over time.
• Periodically lubricate the locking mechanism, dial, and hinges with WD-40.
• Ensure the cabinet stays dry and rust-free. Address any moisture issues.
• Don’t let objects fall into the locking mechanism to obstruct it.
• Keep the interior of the cabinet clean of dust and debris.
• Have a locksmith service the cabinet every few years. They can clean and lubricate it.
• Try not to force the lock when opening it. Turn the key or dial gently.
• Replace very old locks that may be beyond their lifespan.

With proper maintenance and care, your metal file cabinets should open smoothly for many years without need for drastic unlocking measures. But if you do end up with a stuck lock, use the techniques in this article to get your cabinet open again without too much trouble. Just be cautious not to damage the cabinet when attempting to unlock it forcefully. With some perseverance and the right tools, you’ll access your files again in no time.

Getting Into a Locked File Cabinet Without a Key

Finding yourself locked out of a filing cabinet can be inconvenient and frustrating. However, there are several ways to get into a locked file cabinet without a key. The techniques vary in difficulty and some may damage the cabinet, so use discretion to choose the best method for your situation.

Lock Pick the File Cabinet

One of the easiest non-destructive ways to open a locked file cabinet is to pick the lock using specialized lock pick tools. This requires some skill and practice to master.

Steps to pick a filing cabinet lock:

• Use a tension wrench in the bottom of the keyhole and lightly turn to create tension on the lock cylinder.
• Insert the pick and feel for the pins. Use light pressure to lift the pins to the shear line.
• Once all the pins are aligned at the shear line, the cylinder will turn and unlock.
• Turn the tension wrench more to retract the locking mechanism and open the cabinet.

Lock picking success requires patience and a delicate touch. It’s an art that takes time to learn. But once mastered, you can open most file cabinets without keys or damage.

Bypass the Locking Mechanism

Many old filing cabinets have relatively simple locking mechanisms that can be bypassed with some tinkering.

Ways to bypass cabinet locks:

• Remove lock cylinder – The cylinder usually unscrews allowing the door to open. Replace cylinder after.
• Access locking lug – A small lug on the door frame can retract the lock. Move it with a screwdriver.
• Disassemble lock – Taking the lock fully apart exposes its workings so you can unlock it.
• Drill out lock – As a last resort, you can drill into the lock cylinder to destroy it and open the cabinet.

Bypassing the lock this way requires some skill at carefully disassembling components. Take precautions not to damage the cabinet.

Pick or Bypass Latch Locks

Many vintage filing cabinets use simple slide latch locks on the drawers rather than key locks. These are much easier to open.

To pick a slide latch:

• Carefully insert a small flathead screwdriver into the latch opening.
• Press down on the latch while gently pulling the drawer handle to slide the latch open.
• If needed, spray lubricant inside the latch to loosen the sliding mechanism first.

With care, these types of latch locks can be picked open in seconds without any damage. Just gently maneuver the sliding piece inside to unlock it.

Call a Locksmith

For tough situations where you’ve tried everything else without success, calling a professional locksmith may be needed.

A locksmith can:

• Often pick open a stubborn lock that you can’t. Their expertise and specialized tools are designed for this.
• Drill out just the right part of the lock to open the cabinet quickly and non-destructively.
• Make a new working key by impressioning the lock if needed.
• Replace the entire lock cylinder or mechanism if required to gain access.

While an added expense, a locksmith provides fast, reliable service in tricky situations where DIY efforts have failed. Their skilled techniques won’t damage your cabinet.

Destructive Entry Methods to Avoid

It’s best to avoid the following methods unless absolutely necessary, as they will damage the cabinet:

• Hammering off the lock cylinder.
• Drilling randomly into the lock mechanism.
• Prying open the cabinet doors or drawers by force.
• Cutting the drawer slides or cabinet frame with a saw.

These techniques will gain entry, but also ruin the structure and function of the filing cabinet. Only use them as an absolute last resort if you plan to replace the cabinet afterward.

In summary, with the proper tools and techniques like lock picking, bypassing components, or hiring a locksmith, you can gain entry into a locked file cabinet without permanently destroying it in the process. Patience and care are needed, but you can likely unlock it non-destructively. Just avoid forceful measures like hammering or sawing the cabinet open.

Tips for Opening a Jammed File Cabinet Drawer

File cabinet drawers can sometimes become jammed shut. This renders their contents inaccessible until you can get them unstuck. Here are some tips for unlocking and opening a jammed filing cabinet drawer:

Lubricate Sticky Slides

If the drawer slides have become dry and sticky, lubricating them heavily with a spray like WD-40 can help loosen things up.

Steps to Lubricate Sticky Drawers:

1. Remove the drawer if possible. Spray lubricant on the slides.
2. If you can’t remove it, spray lubricant into the inner slide channels while attempting to open the stuck drawer.
3. Let the lubricant soak for 10-15 minutes. Open and close the drawer repeatedly to distribute the lubricant.
4. Check for debris inside the slide-out tracks and clean any out using a rag.
5. Over time, continue to periodically lubricate drawers and slides to prevent sticking.

Lubricating often frees up stuck slides, allowing the drawer to open normally. Be generous with the lubricant and let it penetrate fully before trying to open the drawer.

Adjust Sticking Drawer Alignment

Sometimes a drawer won’t open simply because it’s slightly out of alignment.

To realign a stuck drawer:

• Pull firmly but steadily straight out as you try opening the drawer. Don’t yank it. The gentle pressure can re-align the slides.
• Look for any rubbing or grinding between the cabinet frame and drawer. Use shims or sand down spots to ease friction.
• Loosen the drawer slide screws, adjust into proper alignment, then re-tighten the slides.
• Examine the drawer when closed. If uneven gaps are present, the slide alignment needs adjustment.

With patience and gradual pressure, you can coax an out-of-alignment drawer open. Just avoid using force, as that can damage the slides and cabinet.

Disable Locking Mechanisms

If your filing cabinet has locks, ensure they aren’t engaged and preventing the drawer from opening.

To disengage locking mechanisms:

• Make sure the locking bars are retracted and the key is in the correct open position. Gently jiggle the key.
• Remove or pick open any slide latch locks along the drawer slides.
• If needed, follow tips above for unlocking a stuck locking cabinet.
• Avoid forcing the drawer open while locks are still engaged.

If the locking mechanisms are preventing drawer access, focus efforts on unlocking those first before attempting to open the drawer.

With some elbow grease and troubleshooting of potential causes, most stuck filing cabinet drawers can be freed up. Just avoid forcing them open at risk of breakage. A little lubrication, realignment, and unlocking is often all that’s required.

Safely Removing a Broken Key From a File Cabinet Lock

Attempting to unlock your file cabinet only to find a broken key stuck inside the lock is very unpleasant. It blocks access to the cabinet contents while putting you at risk of damaging the lock further if you try forcing the key fragments out. Here is how to safely remove a broken key from a filing cabinet lock:

What Not To Do

• Don’t try to grab and yank out the broken key with pliers. This will likely snap it further inside the lock.
• Don’t use glue on the end of the broken key piece to pull it out, as this gums up the lock.
• Don’t spray lubricant into the lock right away, as this can just push the fragments further inside.
• Don’t try to forcefully wiggle or turn the broken key out. You’ll risk scratching the interior lock components.

Attempting these methods often makes the situation worse. You must be very careful extracting broken key parts from a precision lock mechanism.

Use Compressed Air to Clear Debris

• Use a can of compressed air (sold for cleaning electronics) to try blowing out small fragments and metal shavings. Blow air into the keyhole while turning the cylinder.
• The compressed air can dislodge and eject small broken parts stuck in the lock. Just be careful not to blow fragments further in.

Extract Loose Key Pieces with Tweezers

• Once most of the debris is cleared with air, use thin tweezers to try grasping and extracting any remaining key pieces that are visible or loose inside the lock.
• Gently wiggle tweezers inside the keyhole and pull out anything you can grab onto. Take care not to scratch the inside of the lock.

Use a Locksmith’s Broken Key Extractor Tool

• As a safer and more effective option, locksmiths have special broken key extractor tools for removing stuck fragments.
• The extractor uses a barbed wire end to latch onto the broken piece so it can be pulled out gently without scratching the lock interior.
• Most locksmiths have extractors for removing stuck broken keys. Call one or visit their shop for quick assistance.

A professional’s broken key extractor tool makes this job much easier and minimizes potential damage to your filing cabinet’s lock. Never try forcing a stuck broken key out – use a careful extraction method. With some compressed air, tweezing of debris, and ideally an extractor tool, the broken key will release without issue. Just be patient!

How to Replace the Lock on a Filing Cabinet

Over time, filing cabinet locks can wear out or become damaged through heavy use. Replacing the lock gives you fresh start with improved security. Here are the steps for safely replacing a filing cabinet lock:

Assess the Lock Situation

Take a close look at your current cabinet lock:

• What style is it – keyed, combination, electronic digital, etc? This determines the replacement type.
• Where is it located – on the cabinet frame or individual drawers? Measure to get the right size.
• How is it installed? Screws, friction fit, adhesive, etc? Check so you can remove it properly.
• Is it truly broken or can it be repaired? A locksmith may be able to service it.

Knowing your existing lock setup will ensure you get the proper replacement and can install it correctly.

Purchase the New Lock

Buy a replacement lock that matches the keying and installation style of your original:

• For keyed locks, get the same number of pins. Take your key to match