The Hand File

Question 1

Why is high carbon steel used for the manufacture of the main part of the file?

Answer 1

The main part of the file has to be tougher than the material it is applied to and high carbon steel is very tough

Question 2

What is the ‘through filing’ technique?

Answer 2

The file is pushed forwards against the surface of the material and then lifted away and returned to the starting point for the process to be started again

Question 3

What is the ‘draw filing’ technique?

Answer 3

The file is held in both hands and pushed forwards and backwards to further smooth the material

Question 4

Explain the importance of a ‘safe edge’

Answer 4

It is useful for filing corners. The safe edge is placed into the corner and, because it is smooth, it does not damage the surface of the metal