what are the best files?

atakach

atakach

Joined
Jan 17, 2008
Messages
3,721
I've used alot of different files, and some cut better than others, some dull quicker, than others. I was wondering what some of you pros use as far as files. Ive heard that SK made a good set, but they sell on there site for about $130:eek:

I guess you get what ya pay for. I do a fair abount of file work and was curious if there were any other good cutt'en brands out there, that don't dull so quickly, cause I'm not extremely satisfied with the Nicholson's after seeing the SK's in action.
 
Valtitan

At about RHC73, they hold up real well for filework. Don't try leaning into 'em too hard. Also don't use 'em for testing your heat treat. :D

Rob!
 
Valtitans are magnetic, so it's steel of some sort. They have a peculiar silver color, so it's tough to say if they're coated or it's the steel itself which lend the hardness. If it's uncoated steel, it must be loaded with some particularly hard carbide like vanadium or tungsten, I'd think. Expensive little bastids.
 
Last edited:
Just for a $0.02 cent guess, my bet says that there case hardened with something real nasty to get a 73RHc, but that would be a long wearing file!

For the money, Save Edge is a good bet for me, I can get seconds from my Farrier supplier (there a Save Edge dealer) for about $25 for a small assortment. They cut, but you want to be around or lower then 60-62RHc to get any life.

I asked a Save Edge rep. what there Farrier rasp were made out of? and if they would be a good blade stock? he said there a good hi-carbon steel, but that there industrial files are even higher carbon steel, and would make a better knife. (he did hold back 'what' steel, I was glad for the answer I did get)
 
Sears Craftsman
Lifetime warranty
I bought a set 6 years ago and had them replaced about 6 times already. I think they were around $17 when I bought them.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top