How to Open a Locked File Cabinet Without a Key

Locking file cabinets work well to deter unauthorized people from taking a look at confidential files. You can easily misplace the keys for these locks, however, and this leaves the people who actually need the files without access. Before you take a hammer or pry bar to your file cabinet, take a minute to use a simple method to "pop" one of these locks without ruining it or the cabinet.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Electric drill with 1/8 inch bit
• Small flashlight
• Ice pick
• Wood or metal putty

Instructions

1. Measure and mark a spot on the top of the file cabinet that is 2 inches in from the front edge of the cabinet and in line with the lock.

2. Using a 1/8 inch drill bit, drill a hole through the top of the cabinet directly on the mark you made in Step 1.

3. Point the flashlight so that you can look through the hole and locate the plunger bolt of the lock mechanism.

4. Place the tip of the ice pick in the hole. Angle it so that you move the tip toward the locking mechanism (and thus the plunger bolt). You may need to move the tip around a little until you can feel it.

5. Apply pressure to the plunger bolt with the tip of the ice pick and the lock will pop open so that you can open the drawers. You can then remove or replace the lock assembly as you choose.

6. Place a dab of wood or metal putty over the hole if you desire.

References

• Hon File Cabinets: Opening a Locked File Cabinet Using a Pop Out Lock