Someone swiped my keys from my car. Had all my keys on it and unfortunately, no doubles to be had. I had an ignition key made from the VIN but really don't feel like shelling out more money for the carrier, locksmith, etc. It's a medium small key, I think it had grooves on both sides

Anyone have a clue on how to get into this without destroying it? I tried picking the lock with no luck at all (the slot is sideways when locked which makes it tough and I have limited skills anyhow).

There is a lock on both sides and it opens either way so I was thinking about drilling out the lock on one side? Or forcing open with a screwdriver? And then rigging an external locking latch?

Any ideas or insights would be appreciated; don't want to risk destroying the thing as it is very useful.

John