locksmithery

here | March 10, 2009 | self

[GovernmentShrinker]

Thanks for the detailed explanation. I’ll add it to my growing collectino of tips. This is probably a very cheap, simple lock — it’s on just a basic metal file cabinet, and looks like it would take a very tiny key — so it’s likely to be a lot easier to pick than something like a real door lock.

[WhirlwindAttack]

How do I pick the lock on an ordinary, probably 1960s, metal file cabinet?

If you have a lock pick kit it's pretty easy.
There is a flat curved tool called a tension wrench that you insert into the lock on the bottom.
Then you take the proper shaped pick and work the tumbler pins front to back. When the pins line up you turn the lock cylinder with the wrench and pick.
It's just that easy.

Or get a pick gun, insert, squeeze the handle a couple of times and Bingo.
A paperclip might work if you bend it right for a tension wrench and an eyeglass screwdriver bent at the tip. I've found locks keep honest people honest.

[Does so]

"...I've found locks keep honest people honest..."

I've found that locks keep me from entering my own property!

So I re-keyed all my locks to just two pins, and have one key that works them all. (Schlage locks). If you really need to enter your house, use a Vise-Grip® on the door knob or dead-bolt to gain entry. Pipe wrenches work well, too.

I guess Obama supporters already know this.

:-\

[WhirlwindAttack]

I’ve had break in attempts twice in the last year. I’ve upgraded locks to prevent key bumping but if they really want in they will find a way. (chain saw through door/ pipe wrench to the handle and deadbolt) Note to the 0bamabots in the coming zombie apocalypse, Stay away from me and mine. I’m hazardous to zombie health.

[GovernmentShrinker]

Well, I don’t have a lock pick kit, and I don’t really think it would be worth buying one for this, so I’ll have to try and make do with paper clips and bobby pins.