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How to Unlock a File Cabinet Lock?

File cabinets are an important place to ensure the security of documents. Many users tend to worry about losing their keys and then try to find a solution to unlock their file cabinets, which is why we have provided you with some steps. Here are some easy ways to choose a file cabinet lock.

How Does File Cabinet Lock Work?

File cabinet locks hold tumblers like other locks, and they work in the same way as other locks. When the user inserts the key into the file cabinet lock, it pushes the drum, which then twists it into place. If someone puts the correct key in the keyhole, the tumbler will be in an easy position to unlock, but if the user doesn’t insert the correct key, the tumbler will not open. If the user keeps twisting the wrong keys, there are several chances for the keys to getting stuck.

Steps To Unlock A File Cabinet Lock

You must be wondering what if you lose the key to your file cabinet that holds important documents, yet are not able to do anything? Go through this article in one go and get an idea to pick a file cabinet lock.

Unlock A File Cabinet Lock With A Paperclip

Unlock A File Cabinet Lock With A Paperclip

Step 1 – Take a paper clip and unwrap one end, leaving the other end bent

Step 2 – The second step is to insert the bent end of the paper clip into the keyhole. Do not hold the paper clip horizontally as it may get caught in the lock

Step 3 – Note that as you insert the paper clip into the lock, keep the paper clip vertical so that one side pushes down on the pin inside.

Step 4 – To unlock it, start twisting the paper clip from left to right and right to left. Once you do that, you’ll find the right one, no matter which stages you feel is easy to lock in.

Step 5 – Don’t be in a hurry when twisting the paperclip as the paperclip may get caught in the lock and this will be a big problem. It opens as soon as the clip switches to the other side.

Step 6 – Slowly remove the paper clip to reduce the chance of jamming.

Unlock A File Cabinet Lock With A Nail Clippers

Unlock A File Cabinet Lock With A Nail Clippers

Step 1 – Take a small nail clipper with a curved end

Step 2 – Lift the clipper to the bottom and push it into the lock, insert the clipper

Step 3 – As you do this, take the tip of the paper clip and use it with your nail clippers to sense the pins inside the lock.

Step 4 – To find the correct way, move the file from left to right and right to left to unlock the file cabinet

Step 5 – Once you find the right way, start twisting it back and forth to get it into the lock easily

Step 6 – Most file cabinet locks contain five locking pins, to unlock the cabinet you must unlock all of the locking pins

Step 7 – After turning all these buttons, you will hear a click, which means you have unlocked the file cabinet.

Unlock A File Cabinet Lock With A Bobby pin

Unlock A File Cabinet Lock With A Bobby pin

Step 1 – Start by bending the bobby pin until it forms a 90-degree angle. If there is any rubber on the axle pin, remove it.

Step 2 – With the rubber removed from the tip, use your finger to bend over the end of the bobby pin.

Step 3 – Take the other pin as a lever and bend it from the other end so that it forms a 90-degree angle.

Step 4 – Then insert the rod into the keyhole, twist it to one side to apply pressure, and insert the other tip into the rod.

Step 5 – Start moving the pin up and down until you hear a click as this will be the sign the lock is now open.

Can I Have a Replacement Key for My File Cabinet Lock?

Yes, you can have a replacement key for your file cabinet. Look for a professional locksmith that could help you out. If your key is broken, just bring it to him to look for the codes. If it is lost, a professional locksmith can still provide you with a replacement key.

Will Unlock File Cabinet Lock Damage It?

Unfortunately, yes. Picking the file cabinet lock can cause scratches. Besides that, if you align the pin with force and care, you can damage it. If you damage your file cabinet lock, you must buy a new one to keep your important documents safe.

Conclusion

Did you find our tutorial on how to pick a file cabinet lock useful? You don’t have to pay for professional help or explain to your boss how you lost your file cabinet key. Following the instructions above, you can open a locked filing cabinet. If you understand the above guide well, you can learn more tips for opening and removing them, such as how to remove a filing cabinet lock without key, open file cabinets, and how to lock without locking File cabinets.