How to Unlock a Metal Storage Cabinet

Introduction

Metal storage cabinets are sturdy and secure options for storing tools, supplies, files, and other items. However, you may find yourself needing to unlock a metal cabinet if you’ve lost the key or bought it secondhand without a key. Unlocking a metal cabinet lock requires some finesse, patience, and the right tools, but it can be done relatively easily once you know the techniques.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the steps for unlocking common types of metal cabinet locks, from combination and tubular cylinder models to disc and wafer locks. We’ll also cover tips for preventing damage and extra security considerations. With the right approach and tools, you’ll be able to access your cabinet’s contents quickly and get it relocked or fitted with a new lock.

Gather the Right Tools and Supplies

Before attempting to unlock a metal storage cabinet, gather the proper tools and supplies:

• Flashlight – A bright flashlight is essential for clearly seeing the lock mechanisms inside the keyhole. An LED penlight is ideal.
• Lock picking set – This is specially designed set of lock picking tools like tension wrenches and lock picks for manipulating pins and tumblers. Look for a set made for the type of cabinet lock you have.
• Lubricant – A dry graphite powder or spray lubricant can help tools glide smoothly inside the lock.
• Rags – Have some clean cloths or paper towels handy to wipe away lubricant and debris.
• Needle-nose pliers – Pliers may be needed to grip and turn stiff components inside the lock.
• Screwdrivers – Standard and Phillips-head screwdrivers can aid in removing lock components if necessary.
• Drill – For installing a new lock, you’ll need a power drill with bits.
• Safety glasses – Wear eye protection when drilling metal to avoid injury from flying fragments.

Gather these before starting so the unlocking process goes smoothly without interruptions. Quality tools designed for lock picking are especially critical.

Examine the Cabinet Lock

Carefully study the lock on your metal cabinet to identify the type before attempting to pick or disable it:

• Combination lock – This has a dial with numbered plates that must be spun to specific digits in the right sequence to unlock it.
• Tubular cylinder lock – These have a cylindrical keyhole and operate with a type of pin and tumbler mechanism.
• Disc lock – Uses a row of flat rotating discs that align to form a shear line when unlocked.
• Wafer lock – Contains thin wafer-shaped plates that position properly to open the lock.
• Padlock – A separate padlock may be installed to secure double cabinet doors.

Knowing the lock type determines the best picking tools and techniques to open it. If unsure, try to look inside the keyhole with a flashlight.

Try Combination Locks First

If your metal cabinet has a simple combination lock, start by trying the most common default combinations:

• 0-0-0
• 1-2-3
• 1-1-1
• 0-0-0-0

Spin each dial carefully to the appropriate number for the sequence. Give a slight tug on the latch between numbers to check if it’s unlocked.

Many combination locks also have a bypass procedure using the change key on back. Insert the key and turn it 90 degrees clockwise, then enter the new combo to reset it.

With patience, combination locks can often be unlocked without tools by cycling through common combinations.

Pick Tubular Cylinder Locks

Tubular cylinder cabinet locks contain a series of spring-loaded pin stacks inside. You need to use lock picking tools to move the pin stacks to the proper heights so they align with the shear line:

1. Insert the tension wrench into the bottom of the keyhole and twist slightly to apply tension.
2. Gently insert the lock pick and feel for the pins. Push each pin up slowly to the shear line. You’ll feel a slight give in the wrench when each pin sets.
3. Repeat the process for each pin stack while maintaining wrench tension. When all are aligned, the lock will turn freely.

Take care not to force the pins or damage them while picking tubular locks. A raking technique can also be used to bounce the pins against the shear line.

Wafer Lock Picking Techniques

Thin wafer locks contain stacked plates that notch together when aligned correctly:

1. Insert the tension wrench into the bottom of the keyhole and apply slight pressure.
2. Gently slide the pick along the wafers to wedge them into position. Very light force is needed.
3. Keep constant tension on the wrench as you slide the pick and allow wafers to drop into place one by one.
4. When all wafers are aligned properly, turn the wrench to unlock.

Wafer locks have very delicate mechanisms. Use a deft, smooth picking motion to prevent any damage.

Disc Lock Manipulation Methods

Disc locks require rotating all the internal discs to form a straight shear line:

1. Insert the tension wrench fully and use the lock pick to push the discs. Apply torque with the wrench to hold their positions.
2. Turn each disk carefully with the pick, one at a time, keeping enough rotational tension on the wrench.
3. Finesse each disk to align the shear line across the discs to open the lock.

Avoid using too much force when aligning disk lock chambers. The disks can easily get stuck if jammed.

Call a Locksmith for Added Security

In some cases, you may want the added security and assurance of having a professional pick or drill out the cabinet lock. Seek help from a licensed locksmith if:

• It contains sensitive or valuable items that need certified safe access.
• The lock is high-end or you risk permanently damaging mechanisms.
• You don’t have the right tools or experience for the lock type.
• Entry needs to be discreet for privacy concerns.

While DIY picking is possible for many locks, a locksmith has specialized tools and expertise for quick, non-destructive access in difficult situations.

Install a New Lock After Accessing

Once unlocked, immediately replace the old lock with a new one for security. Purchase a high-quality cabinet lock made for that style door:

• Use a combination lock for quick access without keys. Match brand and model to existing hole patterns.
• Choose a durable, pick-resistant lock cylinder if using a keyed model.
• Opt for a disc lock for smoother operation with tighter clearances.
• Install a hidden shackle padlock on double door cabinets for better resistance to prying or cutting.

Carefully drill out old locks and clean surfaces thoroughly before installing the replacement. Take measurements and follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely for proper fit and function.

Maintain Your Metal Storage Cabinet

To avoid needing to pick the lock in the future, make sure your metal cabinet stays in good working order:

• Oil the lock periodically per the manufacturer instructions using graphite or dry lubricant sprays.
• Ensure the cabinet sits firmly on level ground without sagging or settling doors.
• Adjust or replace worn gaskets and latches to keep the door properly sealed when closed.
• Check for loose or stripped screws and tighten them to keep handles and hinges secure.
• Test locks regularly to verify combinations and keys function smoothly. Replace worn locks.
• Follow all installation procedures exactly if drilling new holes or mounting a different lock.
• Keep duplicate keys stored safely away from the cabinet in a locked box.

With regular maintenance and care, most quality metal storage cabinets should give years of trouble-free performance. But knowing how to unlock them properly is still a useful skill for access when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Unlocking Metal Storage Cabinets

1. Are certain locks easier to pick than others?

Yes, wafer locks tend to be easier to manipulate since they have delicate internal mechanisms. Disc locks also have looser tolerances that make alignment easier. Tubular cylinder locks require more finesse and practice to pick successfully.

2. Will I need to drill out the old lock?

In most cases, you can unlock the cabinet without drilling by using picking techniques. But for added security, you may want to replace the lock completely by drilling it out and installing a new one.

3. Do I need any special skills?

Some finesse and mechanical aptitude can help, but lock picking can be learned by almost anyone with practice. Go slowly, follow instructions, and start with easier lock types before moving to more challenging ones.

4. Can I rekey the lock instead?

Rekeying lets you set a new key combination by repinning the lock. But this is only possible if the lock was designed for rekeying to begin with. Check manufacturer specifications before attempting to rekey.

5. What picks should I buy as a beginner?

Start with a basic pick set that includes standard hook and rake picks as well as a variety of tension wrenches. You can add more specialized picks later as you progress and tackle different locks.

6. How can I prevent needing to pick it in the future?

Always keep spare keys in a safe location you can access if needed. Install a quality lock and maintain it properly. Replace locks periodically to improve pick resistance as old locks wear out.

7. Why won’t some cabinets unlock if I enter the right combination?

With combination locks, you may need to apply rotational force on the dial to overcome internal friction before it will unlock at the right numbers. Try turning the dial back and forth to loosen components.

8. Can picking damage my lock?

It’s possible to damage internal components if excessive force is used. Always pick gently using proper techniques for that lock type. Some cheaper locks may be more vulnerable to breakage during picking.

9. Is lock picking legal everywhere?

Laws vary regarding legal ownership and use of lock picking tools. In most areas individual use is legal, but be sure to check regulations for your local jurisdiction before picking locks.

10. When should I call in a professional instead?

Contact a licensed locksmith if you ever damage components, can’t get specialized tools, need certified access to sensitive contents, or have concerns about attempting to pick the lock yourself.

Conclusion

Unlocking a metal storage cabinet without the key or combination requires careful use of specialty picking tools and techniques tailored for the specific lock type. With precision, light tension, quality picks, and patience, most standard cabinet locks can be manipulated without damage. Always take security precautions afterwards and install new locks to keep your belongings safely stored away. Knowing proven methods for accessing locked metal cabinets of all kinds gives you more control and options for regaining entry when needed.