Whether you’ve lost your office desk drawer key or need to quickly open a drawer lock without the key, knowing how to pick a desk drawer lock can be valuable.
In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on opening a locked desk drawer using tools like paper clips, bobby pins, and a nail clipper file. We’ll also discuss how a desk drawer lock works, its parts, and its functions.
Table of Contents
Method 1: Using 2 Paper Clips or Bobby Pins
Step 1: Straighten the first paper clip or bobby pin
The first step to picking an office cabinet lock with a paperclip or with a bobby pin is to straighten its ends to make a lock pick that goes inside the keyhole easily.
You want to ensure that the wire is as straight as possible so that you can manipulate it when picking the lock.
Step 2: Bend the 2nd paper clip or bobby pin into a hook shape
Next, bend the end of the 2nd paper clip or bobby pin into a hook shape. This hook will be used to pick the pins inside the lock.
Make sure the hook is small enough to fit inside the lock’s keyhole.
Step 3: Insert the hook into the keyhole of the desk drawer lock.
Insert the hook into the keyhole of the desk drawer lock. You want to ensure the angle reaches the pins inside as far as possible.
Be gentle when inserting the bobby pin; you don’t want to damage and break the drawer lock or your tool.
You can adjust the angle of the hook or apply more pressure.
Step 4: Apply slight pressure and jiggle the hook.
Now insert the straight pin into the keyhole, apply slight pressure to it and start jiggling it around. You may need to apply more pressure to remove a desk lock.
Once you feel the pins move, you are close to unlocking the desk drawer. It is important to remain calm and focused during this step to avoid damaging the lock or your tool.
Step 5: Turn the hook in the same direction as you would with a key to unlock the desk drawer.
Finally, turn the hook in the same direction as you would with a key to unlock the desk drawer. You may need to apply more pressure than before to turn the lock.
Keep rotating until you hear the lock click and the drawer opens, and you can finally pick a file from the locked cabinet.
Method 2: Using a Nail Clipper File
Step 1: Insert the knife’s blade into the keyhole of the desk drawer lock
The first step in picking an office desk drawer lock with a knife is to insert the nail clipper file into the keyhole.
You want to put the curved tip of the clipper file downward when inserting.
Step 2: Apply slight pressure and move the file around.
Once you’ve inserted the knife into the keyhole, apply slight pressure to put it further inside as possible.
You want to feel for any resistance or movement inside the lock.
Keep moving the file clockwise as you would with the key until you feel the pins move. But be careful not to force it too much.
Keep rotating the blade until you hear the lock click and the drawer opens. This is how you pick a file cabinet lock.
How Does a Desk Drawer Lock Work?
A desk drawer lock mechanism works by using a combination of various parts that work together to secure the drawer.
Here’s how each part functions:
- Pin Chambers: They are small holes in the lock’s shell holding the driver and key pins to lock a desk drawer.
- Shell: The outer casing of the lock that protects the inner workings.
- Shear Line: The area where the key and driver pins meet, allowing the plug to rotate.
- Key: The tool used to correctly operate the lock by aligning the key and driver pins.
- Springs: These tiny components push the driver and key pins into the pin chambers.
- Driver Pins: These pins sit above the shear line and prevent the plug from rotating until the correct key is inserted.
- Key Pins: These pins sit below the shear line and align with the cuts on the key.
- Keyway: The narrow channel in the lock cylinder that guides the key into place.
- Plug: The rotating component of the lock that turns when the correct key is inserted, allowing the drawer to be locked or unlocked.
The right way to pick a desk lock depends on the pins and plugs in position.
When a key is inserted into the lock, it pushes the key and driver pins into their respective pin chambers, aligning them with the shear line.
FAQs
Is it legal to pick a desk drawer lock if I’ve lost the key?
The legality of picking a desk drawer lock varies depending on your location and circumstances.
In some cases, it may be considered illegal to open a locked wooden desk drawer without the owner’s permission.
How long does it take to pick a desk drawer lock?
In some cases, it may take only a few minutes to pick the lock, while in other cases, it may take longer.
Indeed, it’s almost impossible to open a locked desk drawer without a key in 5 seconds, not when you are not a lock-picking master.
Can I use any type of paperclip or bobby pin to pick the lock?
Not all types of paper clips and bobby pins will work effectively. Choose a paperclip or bobby pin that is thin enough to fit inside the keyhole but strong enough to withstand the pressure required to pick the lock.
What are the types of desk drawer locks?
There are several types of desk drawer locks, including cam locks, plunger locks, and disc tumbler locks.
Conclusion
Picking a desk drawer lock can be valuable, especially if you’ve lost your key or need to access a locked wooden drawer.
Follow our step-by-step guide on how to pick a desk drawer lock using tools like paper clips, bobby pins, and a nail file to unlock it in several minutes easily.
Use these methods responsibly, and consider calling a professional locksmith if you need clarification or a desk drawer lock replacement.
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