It is easy to get frantic when looking for files located inside a keyless filing cabinet. But do not worry; you can retrieve the documents using basic items.
Straightening a paperclip and then gently bending one of its ends will unlock a file cabinet lock. Utilizing a lock pick set is a great way to open a filing cabinet lock.
Types of Filling Cabinet Locks
It’s crucial to understand the various file cabinet lock mechanisms before learning how to open a lock without a key.
How does a lock on a file cabinet function? Because tumblers make up the majority of file cabinet locks, they operate similarly to door locks. Once you insert the key into the lock, the teeth are pushed and will roll the tumblers into a different position, depending on the shape the key has. If it’s the correct key, then the tumblers will immediately lock into their “open” position, allowing you to use the key and turn it.
If the lock has already been set, you can release it this way. However, if the lock is open, you can lock it and turn the key in the opposite direction to unlock it.
Naturally, only locks with traditional locks can be used if you want to do this. A digital one has a unique mechanism and requires more effort to unlock. It is occasionally possible for file cabinet locks to lock one drawer at a time, or multiple drawers simultaneously. It depends on the piece of furniture you’ve purchased.
Now that you know how the basic mechanism of a file cabinet lock works, let’s learn how you can pick a lock with a bobby pin or with a paperclip.
How to Pick a Lock With a Bobby Pin
The first choice is to use a bobby pin. The steps that you must take are listed below.
Step One
The pin should first be bent back until it resembles an extended metal wire. Afterward, place a portion of it inside the lock. A flat side facing upward should be used. Then, “bend” the pin’s end and push the remaining area of it to the left side. Make a loop out of the other side of your pick to continue.
Step Two
Then, bend one half of a different pin so that it resembles a key and makes it simple for you to push the pins at once using pliers or your hands. The first pin is the “lever,” and the other is the “pick.”
Step Three
Next, put the bent end of your liver as deep into the bottom of the keyhole as you can. Turn it after that just like you would a key. Try both directions if you’re not sure of the correct position. Do it until you don’t hear a “click.” You shouldn’t put too much pressure on the lever; it needs to stay in this position. Otherwise it will be difficult to push the pins up.
Step Four
Introducing the pick with a bent end is the following step. Lifting and lowering the pick. Be aware of your sensations, as they will tell you if the pins have been jammed. If moving the pins is not possible, then you’re pressing the lever too much. Try lightening it up.
Step Five
Start looking for the stuck pin, then raise it. You should hear a “clicking” sound. For the other stuck pins, repeat this procedure. Your two-drawer file cabinet’s lock will be unlocked once you’ve used all the pins.
How to Pick a Lock With a Paperclip
A paperclip can be used to unlock an unlocked file cabinet lock. As we mentioned at the beginning, it’s very simple: you just need to straighten the paperclip and leave one side with a small curve. As soon as you have the right shape, you can insert the bent end vertically into the keyhole, pressing down on the lock’s internal pins.
You will now arrive at the proper location. Start moving your paper clip to both sides until you notice a “smooth” movement. You’ve found the correct position if you keep moving it in the same direction without catching anything.
The unlock position, which is typically horizontal but can also be vertical in other locks, can now be reached by rotating the paperclip until the keyhole does so. When it does, you can open your file cabinet and take the paperclip out.
Once the lock is unlocked, you will have no trouble accessing the drawer’s contents. It shouldn’t take you longer than five minutes to get past it even if you are unfamiliar with the procedure. You must start the process over if you are unable to open the cabinet.
How to Open a File Cabinet With a Broken Lock
It can be even more frustrating to open a file cabinet with a broken lock. But it’s not impossible. The good news is that both working and damaged file cabinet locks can be opened using the same drilling technique.
Depending on the model of filing cabinet you have, you might have additional choices. A vertical latch on the right side may be present. If one is available, you might be able to use it to shim the cabinet open. A strong object, like a thin, tapered piece of metal, will be necessary. On the right side of the second drawer, place your shim. You should be able to lift a vertical bar there. Work the release with your thumb while jiggling the shim inserted into the right side of the drawer while holding the handle of the drawer in one hand.
Conclusion
How to unlock a file cabinet lock has been covered in this article. We advise you to check out our employee purchase program if you’re thinking about buying a new file cabinet or other office supplies.
We offer a variety of office furnishings, such as electric sit-stand desks, ergonomic chairs, and desk stools, so you can create a comfortable workspace where you can work for extended periods of time.
