File Cabinet Locking Bar with Drill Bit - Beige - 46" Long - for use on a 4 Drawer File Cabinet

These seem to be designed specifically for standard metal file cabinets. However, after studying the product closely, I saw no reason not to try them on a pair of 4-drawer oak cabinets. Installation is the same as for the metal cabinets with the exception of the screws. I used coarse-threaded 1 5/8" construction screws - mostly because that's what I had handy. Other screws 1" or longer should be fine. I drilled pilot holes to prevent the wood from splitting. All of this went smoothly (but first watch the instructional video referenced in the instructions.) The only problem I encountered was stiffness in one of the sliding locking bars after I tightened down the screws. Upon close examination I found that the surface of the wood was a little warped or uneven. I slightly loosened a couple screws to release any stress-bend in the metal bar, and then it worked okay. Not the fault of the locks - just something to deal with when working with a natural wooden surface as opposed to uniformly straight metal. The bars are now very securely attached and it would take a lot of effort to tear them off. I also ordered a pair of matching-key Master Lock 140T Solid Brass padlocks from Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004Y8D3?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1 These fit perfectly and are fine for my purposes. The locking bars can accomodate more robust locks if you prefer.

Excellent product. Made out of steel. Easy one person install. I left the file cabinet flush lock under the newly installed locking bar. I know a thief will find a way to break in but this way they have to break into two locks.

Awesome product! My file cabinet did not have a punch out for a lock. I was going to drill it out & install a lock. Then I saw this. Easy install & really secure. I used youtube video on installation which was helpful

Product worked as advertised. I would suggest if you are using a quick release drill that uses hex shaft drill bits, the enclosed bit does not work very well. I used it but it kept slipping in my hand tighten chuck. Also if you have multiple file cabinets next to each other you need a longer drill bit because the drill chuck will hit the lock bar unless it is opened all the way or you have a longer drill bit, which the hex shaft ones usually are. A center punch is also advisable as metal cabinets are slippery and the drill bit will drift when first starting the hole. Also enclosed instructions are such small print I would suggest looking at one of the Utube videos - search Google for lock bar installation. I did by myself but also good to have a 2nd person to hold bar while marking and drilling holes. Take your time. Measure twice, drill once rule.

For less than $40, this is about as good as a product of this type can get. It is definitely a step up from the cheap tumbler locks built into the top of some filing cabinets. However, 2 things:- Installing it could be a pain for a person working alone. It requires drilling multiple holes into metal, and holding the thing agains the cabinet while driving in screws. Basically, you'll either need a helper or three hands.- "Security" is a relative thing. This is made of sturdy metal, but it is not meant (and to be fair, most filing cabinets are not meant) to be highly resistant to a serious attempt to crack it. Any adult with a crowbar could wreck this thing in 30 seconds. But .... that's what you get for <$40.

Everything went well

This locking bar is everything they said it would be. Heavy, strong, very high quality and easy to install. Screws and a drill bit are included. I had it complete in about 20 minutes. The longer time is due to my inability to work squatted or on my knees. I had to lay on my side to do the last 2 holes, ( 69 yrs old and 30 years of running rescue took it's toll !!!! ) but it was still a simple job. Why....................... so easy even a Caveman can do it !!!!!!! Would definitely buy again. Capt. Ed :)

Sturdy. Works well. Drill bit is included but barely made it through the job.