Toolbank stock a wide range of files and rasps for all uses from Bahco, Nicholson, Faithfull and Files (a Brand Name!).

They are classified by length, shape and cut. The length is traditionally described in inches (excluding the tang. The cut indicates the degree of coarseness, measured by the number of teeth per 25mm, and the amount of space between the rows of teeth.

Smooth Cut  Approximately 62 teeth per 25mm (Fine)
Second Cut  Approximately 36 teeth per 25mm (Medium)
Bastard Cut  Approximately 26 teeth per 25mm (Coarse)

Single cut files have parallel rows of teeth, cut at an angle of between 60 and 80° to the edge, whilst Double Cut (also know as Dual Cut) files have a second set of parallel grooves cut into the blade, usually at an angle of 45°.

It is dangerous to use a file without a handle and although most files are supplied without them they should always be fitted, Toolbank sell a good range of hardwood file handles.

Flat These are the most common file used for filing flat surfaces and all types of work except inside curves. The flat file tapers in both width and thickness towards the tip.

Hand The hand file differs slightly from the flat file in that it is flat in cross section, tapering slightly in thickness towards the tip, but with parallel sides the whole length of the blade.

Round The round file tapers towards the point and is used to enlarge or smooth round openings and to finish concave surfaces. Smaller  versions of the file are know as rat-tail.

Half Round  The most useful of all combining the features of both round and flat files, one side being rounded and the other flat. Can be used on flat, concave and convex surfaces.

Square  The square file is used on rectangular slots, keyways and splines. Slightly tapered towards the point.

Three Square Sometimes described as a triangular file, it has three flat sides and is used to file acute internal angles, clean cut square corners, enlarge and clean up angular holes and sharpen serrated jaws and saw teeth.

Millsaw Can have one or two rounded edges and often have one safe edge. They are always single cut and are mostly used to sharpen mill and circular saws, knives, lawn mower blades, axes, shears and for polishing and deburring work.

Needle  Sometimes referred to as Swiss pattern or Jewellers files. The small files are very accurately made and mainly used for precision work on instruments and other delicate small work

Warding This rectangular file is a small slender file, tapering to a narrow point. It is used mainly as a locksmith tool for filing notches on keys and locks.

Rasps  They have a very coarse tooth formation to facilitate greater stock removal. Mainly used on wood or soft metals.

Failed to find Class  A milled tooth file featuring a curved tooth across the blade. Mainly used for work on car bodies, refrigerators and all types of sheet metal manufacturing.

Failed to find Class Similar to a dreadnought but with straight teeth cut diagonally. Mainly used on steel, aluminium, bronze and copper giving quick stock removal and a smooth finish without excessive clogging of the teeth.

Saw  Designed for sharpening saw teeth - is usually double ended and can be worked in either direction.