file

[warrior24]

HI guys I bought a new file after my old file was a POS. I was wondering how long the new one should last. And I read some where that you were only supposed to file in one direction, is this true.

 

[B Finnigan]

I have simmonds files that are over a year old and I used the heck out of them and they still work like they are new. Yes you only want to file in one direction and keep the teeth cleaned out with a wire brush. I also sprinkle graphite powder on the files before using them. It helps to keep the cuttings from sticking in between the teeth. Others have also used chalk.

 

[Ilovetoolsteel]

HI guys I bought a new file after my old file was a POS. I was wondering how long the new one should last. And I read some where that you were only supposed to file in one direction, is this true.

If you try to file on the backstroke you bend the teeth and make the file useless. How long a file lasts depends on how much you use it and what you use it for. It will last much longer if you use it on handle material and brass than it will using it on steel.

 

[warrior24]

ok thanks guys

 

[Hengelo_77]

Trie drawfiling. It takes a little to get used to but once you get the hang of it, you'll prefer it over normal filing.
Have youf file at a 90degree angle to your blade with the bladetip pointing towards you and the handle to the left side.
Now pull it towards you.

 

[westfall]

It took me a while to learn that files are a consumable.
I have tried without much success to bring some life back to older files with acid. Does anyone have any information on how to do it properly?