12 Assorted Files, Cut 2

Excel set of twelve files, Cut 2

A set of twelve files of various profiles with a uniform cut marked Cut 2. The marking of the cut describes the coarseness of the teeth: a lower number means a coarser cut, a higher one a finer cut. Two is therefore the all-round choice you can work with through most of a build without having to add to the set right at the start.

Why it pays to have more than one profile

A file removes material only where its face touches. A flat file works across its whole width on a flat surface, but in a valley it touches only with its edge and makes a groove. A round one, by contrast, enlarges an opening evenly but will never true up a plane. A set with twelve profiles solves this problem: for a given shape you reach for the matching file instead of doing everything by halves with one universal tool.

A sequence that makes sense

A file is a tool of the coarser phase, not a finishing one. First you true the shape up with a file, then move on to abrasive paper and finally to fine smoothing. Anyone who tries to polish a surface with a file usually only deepens the mark of the teeth.

Use

• File on the stroke away from you and lead the file back clear of the work, otherwise the teeth will blunt.
• Hold the file lightly and let its weight do the work, as pressure only spoils the accuracy.
• Clean clogged teeth with a wire brush or with a piece of soft metal pressed into the teeth.
• Plastic sticks in teeth easily, so clean them as you go rather than once the work is over.
• Store the files so that they do not rub against each other, as mutual wear blunts them faster than work does.

Who the set is for

For the modeler who is setting up a workshop and wants the whole range of shapes covered at once, and for experienced builders who work with resin, putty and photo-etch, where filing is a daily job.

Files are tools with sharp teeth, so protect your fingers while working and do not inhale the dust.