Broken Lock on Bureau?

[artsandcrafts]

I have just bought an old flip top bureau...maybe 1920s...the lock is broken (the centre post is loose), I have the key but can't get it open...any ideas at all?

[artsandcrafts]

After half a dozen people tried EVERYTHING I just messed around with an allen key and got it open,

Lock seems to be working except for the post. I do a bit of metalwork, is there any reason why I shouldn't try to fix the post again?

[kwoswalt99-]

Hi,
I don't see any reason why you shouldn't fix the post. How did you get it open with an allen wrench?
Kyle

[billdeserthills]

After half a dozen people tried EVERYTHING I just messed around with an allen key and got it open,

Lock seems to be working except for the post. I do a bit of metalwork, is there any reason why I shouldn't try to fix the post again?

I have fixed several posts, I usually take a metal punch, place it against the post and then turn both over & while holding everything together
on an anvil, give the opposite side of the post a whack with a hammer. I hope that is clear enough? Anyhow it usually tightens the post right up

[Squelchtone]

[EDIT: Moved from Beginner Lock Picking to This Old Lock]