How do you open a file cabinet that is locked

Method 2. Use a nail clipper file with a curved tip as your lock pick. To use the filing tool, locate a pair of nail clippers that has a tiny nail filing tool. Most of these tools have a curved tip at the top of the file. When you are ready to pick the lock, slide the file out from the base of the nail clippers.

Move the file until it is straight, and hold the file where it meets the clippers. Insert the filing tool into the bottom of the keyhole. Hold the tool up to the bottom of the keyhole so the curved tip faces downward, and push the tool into the keyhole as far as it can go. The tool should easily slip inside the hole, and most of the file should go inside. Turn the file back and forth to determine which way to unlock it.

Move the file clockwise and then counter-clockwise so you can find the correct way to unlock the cabinet. When you find the correct position, the nail file easily slides that way. You'll feel the filing tool slide into place. With a little practice, you can get the hang of it. For many filing cabinets, you can turn the nail file clockwise, like you would your key.

Jiggle the nail file up and down gently to release the locking mechanism. The nail file fits almost perfectly into the keyhole. With a bit of pressure, you can easily unlock the filing cabinet. Move the filing tool up and down slightly times. This moves the pins of the locks so you can easily open the cabinet. You must move these pins to unlock the cabinet. Move the nail file the correct direction to unlock the keyhole. After you jiggle around the file to move the pins, gently spin your wrist in the direction you determined earlier.

Remove your nail file and open the cabinet. After you move the keyhole into the unlocked position, take the nail file out of the lock. You can fold the file back inside of the clippers. Then, simply pull on the handle or door to open the cabinet.

If there is a large object jammed inside the drawer, use a long, thin dinner knife or other dull item, such as a metal ruler, to gently jiggle the item back into place so that the drawer can open freely. Open the drawer as far as it will go without harming the structure of the drawer and keep working on changing the position of the object. Not Helpful 5 Helpful 7. Push-button locks generally present on the outside of the door as a small, round hole centered in the middle of the knob.

To pick this kind of lock, select a bobby pin or straightened paperclip. Not Helpful 6 Helpful Upnorth Here. Yes, picking any lock will leave microscopic scratches inside the mechanism.

Also, using the wrong tool or technique may significantly damage the mechanism mechanically. Not Helpful 4 Helpful 6. Allison Bourgeois. Yes, in most cases, the old lock can be removed and replaced with a like one. Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0. How do I lock my cabinets? What is a plunger lock? Plunger Locks equire no key when locking the device; simply push in on the cylinder to relock. How does a metal filing cabinet lock work?

Can you make a copy of a file cabinet key? How do you unlock a file cabinet? Prying or Drilling the Drawer. How do you pick a lock on a file cabinet in Chicago? How do I change the lock on a file? How do you replace a push lock on a file cabinet? The best way to baby-proof your cabinets without drilling is to simply use a rubber band or special kitchen cabinet cord locks around your cabinet knobs.

How do you install magnetic cabinet locks? How do you install an Ikea cabinet lock? Can you add a lock to a wood cabinet? How do you install a lock on a medicine cabinet? Follow these steps to fit a lock safely and securely. Assess the Cabinet. Fitting a lock largely depends on the shape, size, and material of your medicine cabinet. How do you put a cam lock on a cabinet door? How does a push plunger lock work? What does a dead latch plunger do? What are Medeco keys used for? How do you pick a lock without tools?

How do you change the lock on a Steelcase file cabinet? If you succeed, it will be possible to open the lock with a screwdriver. Otherwise you will need to use one or more larger bits to drill through the entire lock cylinder; be sure to wear safety goggles while doing this. Professional locksmiths also have a few ways of dealing with locked file cabinets, so if you do not mind spending some money that is also an option.

If your lock has a code number printed on the face of the lock or the bezel, a locksmith may be able to use that to cut you a new key. Locksmiths also have the necessary tools to pick such locks very quickly.

Alternatively, by contacting the manufacturer of the cabinet, you may be able to obtain a new key or instructions for bypassing the lock. Many file cabinets use wafer locks, so you may also want to consider picking it yourself. In order to pick these locks, all you need to do is push each wafer all the way up. One way to accomplish this is to insert a key for a different wafer lock and rock it up and down while you attempt to turn it.