Some common and not-
so-common tools ...
by Jack Burgess
F
iles are one of those tools which are found in just about
every modeler’s toolbox. For decades, I had a set of 12
Swiss-pattern files in different styles which I bought for
probably under $10. But they weren’t very good files. Similar
sets are still available under $10, which likely means that the
quality has dropped even more over the years.
One problem with such low-cost file sets is that the files in
them are typically a medium cut. “Cut” refers to the coarseness
of the file surface. Good Swiss-pattern files have cuts which
range from 0 (64 teeth per inch), 2 (79 teeth per inch), and 4
(117 teeth per inch) to 6 (173 teeth per inch). The more teeth
per inch, the finer the resulting finish. A “medium” cut is basi-
cally meaningless since there is no reference to the number of
teeth per inch.
My first set of files was eventually replaced by a slightly better
set of files which was later replaced with another set of files I
hoped was better than the previous set. But I finally realized
that if I really wanted to do precise model work, I really need
some good Swiss-pattern files.
Files, rifflers, and reamers
The Tool Shed - 1
1. My Cut No. 4 precision Swiss-pattern file. These files are
6¼" long with a round knurled handle.
1
I decided to purchase three equaling files [1], also referred to
as rectangle files, in different cuts (No. 0, No. 2, and No. 4)
along with a half-round file and a round file, both with No. 0
cuts, and a square No. 2 cut file. Remember, the higher the
number, the finer a cutting surface. Even though the cuts are
obvious when viewed close-up [2], I applied two red paint dots
to the No. 2 cut file and four red paint dots to the No. 4 cut file
to make sure that I could keep them straight.
While there are dozens of places to purchase files online, many
online stores don’t identify the cut of the files. I bought my files
from McMaster-Carr
for about $15.00 each.
They are Swiss-pattern files made by Nicholson.
In hindsight, typically only the No. 0 and 4 cut files are needed
in the rectangular pattern. If you want to quickly file off a part
of a metal casting or plastic sprue, the coarser No. 0 file will
do the job quicker. On the other hand, if you are filing some
MRH-Nov 2014
