Filing cabinets are typically used in office environments. They are used for the storage of important and/or confidential files and documents. In addition to files and documents, filing cabinets are also generally used to store office supplies such as bond paper, pens, pencils, envelopes, folders, tape, staplers, staple wires, fasteners, and many other things. When it comes to personal use, filing cabinets often contain expensive items, treasured collections, items that hold sentimental value, and of course, important documents as well.

Filing cabinets usually come equipped with a lock to prevent unauthorized people from accessing the items stored inside. But if you’ve somehow misplaced your filing cabinet key, chaos can ensue, especially in an office environment where important documents and supplies are always needed. In such cases, it is important to keep a clear head and be armed with a bit of practical knowledge. Learn how to pierce the cabinet lock with the right tools. Here is how to do it:

First gather all your tools. You will need a steel drill bit set, a drill, some machine oil, and a flat head screwdriver. All of these items can be purchased at your local hardware store. You can also order them online through a trusted building supplies and hardware site.

Start by placing the correct size steel bit into the chuck of your power drill. Choose a steel bit that can go into the longest part of the keyhole to ensure that it will break the deadbolts on the lock. Make sure the bit is securely attached to the power drill by using the chuck key to tighten it.

For a few drops of machine oil and rub it on the bit to decrease the heat caused by the friction created when drilling the metal lock construction.

Begin drilling the file cabinet lock at a medium speed. Be sure to hold the electric drill firmly and apply constant pressure to it. Once you’ve fully drilled through the metal lock construction, set your power drill in reverse and carefully pry it out of the filing cabinet lock.

Next, get your flat head screwdriver and insert it into the slot of the metal lock construction. Turn the screwdriver clockwise. If you are successful in breaking the lock on the filing cabinet, the release lever should trip and miss. If not, repeat the procedure from start to finish, advancing to the next larger bit size if necessary. Once you can destroy the cabinet lock internally and get the release lever to give way, you’ll finally have access to your files and/or office supplies.

All you need to do now is replace the lock on the filing cabinet. Change the lock as soon as possible to protect its contents. The locks on the filing cabinets are fairly easy to find. You can buy them at most hardware stores. When buying a new lock, bring in the old, broken lock so you can compare sizes.