Oklahoma Locksmith Practice Exam

The best method to open a drawer with a plunger-type lock that won’t pop out is to shim the plug from the front of the lock. This technique involves using a shim, which is a thin piece of material that can be inserted into the lock mechanism to manipulate the locking components without causing damage. When properly executed, shimming allows you to disengage the locking mechanism with minimal effort and without requiring special tools. The effectiveness of this method lies in its non-destructive nature, making it a preferred approach for accessing a locked drawer without permanently altering the lock or the drawer itself. By carefully sliding the shim into the lock, you can push aside the locking elements and enable the plunger to move freely, thus allowing the lock to open. Trying different keys may not be effective given the specificity of the lock type, while forcing the lock with a screwdriver can lead to damage and costly repairs. Removing the entire lock mechanism is also a more complicated and labor-intensive solution that can require special tools or skills, and it may compromise the integrity of the drawer itself. Therefore, shimming offers a practical and efficient solution for dealing with a stuck plunger-type lock.