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Broken key in lock.

Discussion in 'The DIY Room' started by Stephiedoll, Sep 5, 2026 at 10:29 PM.

  1. Stephiedoll

    Stephiedoll

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    Hey all, my Mom has an old 2 drawer safe/fireproof file cabinet that uses a key that when turned it pops out so you can open the drawers. At some point the key got broken off in the lock, maybe upside down. My brother tried to use picks but no luck. Looking for any ideas before I head up that way in a few weeks on what has worked for others. I will also grab some pictures of the lock and drawer levers if that would help.
    Thanks in advance and will be taking up my spare key.
     
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  2. MikeInMa

    MikeInMa

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    Locksmith?
     
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  3. Stephiedoll

    Stephiedoll

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    That was my first thought, but the closest one is at least an hour away so trying to save that cost. I did use Google after posting this and there are multiple good ideas that I'm going to try including a key extractor kit on Amazon, like in the $20 range so not a budget breaker. We suspect that she somehow jamed the key in upside down or something. I can update everyone once we get the key out.
     
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  4. Canadian border VT

    Canadian border VT

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  5. Stephiedoll

    Stephiedoll

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    We got this! Plus, I am just a little stubborn when it comes to challenges.
     
  6. wildwest

    wildwest Moderator

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    Steph, I sold those back in the day. All the manufactures are extremely helpful. Extra keys and replacement locks are easy but I bet they will offer you advice if they have some on your broke key. Last resort, note the # on the cylinder and drill it out? Then ask for replacement.
     
    Last edited: Sep 6, 2026 at 12:24 PM
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