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Fix old file cabinet: how to cut plastic box to fit in cabinet

Thank you for taking the time to read my query!!

How can I cut the pictured plastic box and not break it.

I need to cut off about one inch from the top --which has thicker plastic especially on the sides--and thenit will fit in my vintage vertical file cabinet that doesn't have hang rails or file bars for hanging files. This box will fit perfectly if I can just cut off the top part. I did try looking for boxes that would fit but all are too wide or too high

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I previously cut a plastic file box using an exacto blade and broke it in several places when I was trying to cut down about an inch so it would fit in my vintage vertical file cabinet that doesn't have hang rails or file bars for hanging files

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I would recommend a high speed tool like a Dremel or Jigsaw for this with a fine blade. If you have access to a a hotknife or heated blade cutter and a well ventilated area that will work even better.

If you don't have access to these you can use tape around where you want to cut and then score several times through the tape with the exacto blade (or use a hacksaw if you have one) all the way around and ensure the least amount of stress possible is transferred to the rest of the container before cutting all the way through. It also helps if you can put each internal side up against a solid object to cut against (Like a narrow counter or table) to avoid bending the plastic while cutting it and just rotate for each side.

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Thank you. This is excellent advice.( I don't have any of these tools except an exacto knife.)I especially like the suggestion of putting each internal side against a solid object before cutting. I think I am also going to use the tape to make an edge to help me cut straight. On my previous failed attempt, I had a lot of trouble cutting straight around all four sides. Thank you for taking the time to answer.

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sue byrce will be eternally grateful.
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