three square

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Sep 30, 2014
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What exactly does the term "three square" file mean? I have asked some top of the line file reps and the have no idea>
Gary
 
Three flat sides, basically a triangle file.

My knife guru friend said the 'square' means the sides are even or parallel. I don't believe that because I have a tapered three square file.
So three sides equal the same width at 60 degrees or an equal lateral triangle in profile would be 'square' ? Must be an old term.
 
interesting, I would use a square file to re-shape a round hole but maybe the triangle does a better job.

You set the corners with a triangle file because they're more acute than the finished angle, then bring the sides even to the corners.
 
Did I try google....I know it is a triangle file. So what is square about that?

My apologies if you took my question the wrong way it was meant to be a legitimate question. I sometimes forget not everyone knows how to get the best type of results from google they are after. This one happened to come up with very good results. A google search of "define three square file" returns the first result of its definition. When using google in this manner google typically returns it's results for the sites giving the best definitions of your search. The keyword being "define".

Not to get off topic but If you ever want to brush up and get better results when using google this link has invaluable tips on how to use it at is's best potential. One of my hobbies includes finding things on the net that aren't exactly easy to find, like 24 volumes of the ASM metal handbooks in pdf form. Sure some of them are easy to locate but try finding the entire 24 volume set. It's kinda like treasure hunting just on the internet.
 
Square means even, flat, or equal in machinist talk (among other things). A three square file has three equal and roughly parallel sides. The tip tapers a bit, but the sides are pretty much a rectangle. A tapered triangle file is different than a three-square.
 
My apologies if you took my question the wrong way it was meant to be a legitimate question. I sometimes forget not everyone knows how to get the best type of results from google they are after. This one happened to come up with very good results. A google search of "define three square file" returns the first result of its definition. When using google in this manner google typically returns it's results for the sites giving the best definitions of your search. The keyword being "define".

Not to get off topic but If you ever want to brush up and get better results when using google this link has invaluable tips on how to use it at is's best potential. One of my hobbies includes finding things on the net that aren't exactly easy to find, like 24 volumes of the ASM metal handbooks in pdf form. Sure some of them are easy to locate but try finding the entire 24 volume set. It's kinda like treasure hunting just on the internet.

I don't trust info I get from Google. Long story. That is why I ask the pros that might have a better background in understanding tool terms.
Gary
 
Square means even, flat, or equal in machinist talk (among other things). A three square file has three equal and roughly parallel sides. The tip tapers a bit, but the sides are pretty much a rectangle. A tapered triangle file is different than a three-square.

OK, so 'square' can be understood as meaning equal..very good. Now I was sold a F Dick file described as three square but it is tapered much to my amaze which turned out to be of no use. I am filing a slot into a tomahawk head to receive a new steel 'key' so the fit wants to be perfect as possible. So far I have the following files to see what works the best.
Equalling file, a Pillar file, a three square file and a square file. All F Dick #2 nice cutting tools but straight lines and tight fits are not easy.
 
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My apologies if you took my question the wrong way it was meant to be a legitimate question. I sometimes forget not everyone knows how to get the best type of results from google they are after. This one happened to come up with very good results. A google search of "define three square file" returns the first result of its definition. When using google in this manner google typically returns it's results for the sites giving the best definitions of your search. The keyword being "define".

Not to get off topic but If you ever want to brush up and get better results when using google this link has invaluable tips on how to use it at is's best potential. One of my hobbies includes finding things on the net that aren't exactly easy to find, like 24 volumes of the ASM metal handbooks in pdf form. Sure some of them are easy to locate but try finding the entire 24 volume set. It's kinda like treasure hunting just on the internet.

Treasure hunting, never thought of it that way but it reasons why I enjoy it so much as well. I was just searching for "the tactical folder" book which are about $190. I'm all for helping out the author but there's a limit.


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My apologies if you took my question the wrong way it was meant to be a legitimate question. I sometimes forget not everyone knows how to get the best type of results from google they are after. This one happened to come up with very good results. A google search of "define three square file" returns the first result of its definition. When using google in this manner google typically returns it's results for the sites giving the best definitions of your search. The keyword being "define".

Not to get off topic but If you ever want to brush up and get better results when using google this link has invaluable tips on how to use it at is's best potential. One of my hobbies includes finding things on the net that aren't exactly easy to find, like 24 volumes of the ASM metal handbooks in pdf form. Sure some of them are easy to locate but try finding the entire 24 volume set. It's kinda like treasure hunting just on the internet.

Hey Marc, got your msg, just wanted to say thanks for the advice. Your inbox is full so I can't msg you back. Chris
 
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