File Cabinet

[Dwighto]

Mother-in-law just passed away and we can't get into her locked file cabinet to get important papers out. Can I just drill the lock out? Quick way to open it please! Thanks!

[Mr Ules]

well, we need a description of the lock. I wouldn't advise trying to pick it if you don't know what your doing. You could do more damage. So picking is out of the question. And, unless the cabinet is an antique I wouldn't advise spending the money on a locksmith to get it open. If it's just a metal cabinet then just get a crowbar and force it open.
Now for those of you reading this post, don't think that I'm the type to just force something open. I hate using force. I spend a lot of time with picking locks to be seen forcing a lock. However, under his/her circumstances I would advise it. And drilling ( in my opinion ) not the best for the type of lock which I think[u] would be on the cabinet.
( Probably, If it's a new cabinet, a wafer tumbler lock.[/b]

[fugi]

some of the wafer locks on cabinets are incredible weak, if you don't want make the tooks to pick it, put a flathead screwdriver in it, attack vice grips to the screwdriver, push and twist. that'll pop most of the small cabinets open. I assume you've already looked around the are for the key? desk drawers and pencil cups and whatnot?

[begginerlockpicker]

becareful with that screwdriver method if it breaks the lock mechanism that wont help your situation. If you really dont care for damage done to it you should follow Mr Ules advice. If you do care you might want to make some quick picks. Grind down an allen wrench or use a pens pocket clip. Use a paper clip to pick and use a lighter to harden it but be sure to dip it in water so you dont break the crysalizational properties it has. If thats to much trouble use Brute Force .
Good Luck and Happy Picking


Kal