Special Thin File Medium Cutting Force

Special Thin File Medium Cutting Force — a thin modeling file

This is a modeling tool, not a kit and not an accessory for a model. The thin file is intended for cleaning up plastic, resin and soft metal parts: for leveling sprue nubs, truing parting lines and working in narrow places that an ordinary file or abrasive paper cannot reach. The medium cutting action designation refers to the middle grade within this range, that is, a compromise between the speed of removal and the fineness of the surface. The exact dimensions, the grade and the number of pieces in the package are stated on the box.

Use

• Leveling sprue nubs after a part is nipped from the sprue
• Truing parting lines on fuselages, cargo beds and cylindrical parts
• Cleaning up resin castings after the casting block is cut off
• Working in narrow gaps, grooves and between details where there is no room
• Fine-tuning the fit of two parts before gluing them

How to work with the file

A thin blade calls for a different approach from coarse filing. Do not press — the movement itself does the removing, and pressure only clogs the teeth and risks bending a thin blade. Draw the file in one direction and lift it between strokes; that gives you a cleaner surface. Clean clogged teeth with a stiff brush, or the file will start to score the material. Once the shape is reached, move on to finer abrasive paper or a sanding sponge so that the file marks disappear before the primer goes on — under paint every scratch otherwise shows. Do not use the file on clear parts at all.

Who the tool is for

It suits any modeler regardless of subject and scale. The medium grade of removal is the most universal choice for an ordinary build; anyone building a lot of resin or printed parts will appreciate the thin profile when working in narrow places.

The tool has sharp working edges. When sanding plastic and resin, do not inhale the dust, use respiratory protection and keep the tool out of the reach of children.