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Suggestion for quality files

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tomj View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote tomj Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Topic: Suggestion for quality files
    Posted: Dec/05/2021 at 11:27pm
ProstockTom, opions/suggestions, welcome...

The drill bit thread reminded me I need a new set of hand files. I have a bunch of the usual suspects, Nicholson, and I find that they're maybe one notch better than crap. They don't last. I know how to use them, I'm pretty skilled with filing and hand tools (I do most of my precision work this way) but always looking for better tips too.

Mostly 12", flat and half-round. I can use cheaper ones for rough-out, but I heed decent ones for moderate and especially finish work. 

Any suggestions at earth-bound mortal prices?

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1961 Roadster American, 195.6 OHV, T5
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote PROSTOCKTOM Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Dec/06/2021 at 1:41am
Hey Tom,

I bought these last year along with a few other members, but I see they are not currently available.


Probably sitting in a boat off the coast.

Tom
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote PROSTOCKTOM Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Dec/06/2021 at 1:53am
This is an available option  http://www.amazon.com/Nicholson-Ergonomic-Handles-American-Pattern/dp/B001T49R7S/ref=dp_prsubs_1?pd_rd_i=B001T49R7S&th=1  

Half as many for more money, but wasn't really sure how many you wanted or needed.

I did look around the internet  a bit and that set I bought last year is a $100 more this year with most sellers.

Tom
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote 401MATCOUPE Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Dec/06/2021 at 6:01am
As a 4th generation machinist and very long time machinist, I have never bought anything but a Nicholson,....I have not had to buy any in very long time, but maybe the quality has gone down......but they have always been considered the top of the line.
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote tomj Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Dec/06/2021 at 11:57pm
Maybe mine are older than I think. I tend to forget when I got things (I date under-hood parts for that reason). 

I've been getting old-fashioned plain tang 12" files and re-using my old-school wooden handles. I have some shorties but I really like the long ones. Maybe my habits are limiting me, but 8" seems too short for general work.


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1961 Roadster American, 195.6 OHV, T5
http://www.ramblerLore.com

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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote amx007 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Dec/07/2021 at 6:52am
When I was 15 I worked in a saw and drill bit sharpening shop in shipping they always were sharpening bits of all size s I used to like dipping tools in that hot plastic 
after done , it was cool but I know they were a usa company that’s about it 
but all bits / files /blades get dull ….


Edited by amx007 - Dec/07/2021 at 8:35am
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote WesternRed Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Dec/07/2021 at 7:24am
I'm still using the files I inherited from my grandfather, so I probably can't help you. I broke one of the smaller ones recently and it really was one of my go-to tools, might have to have a go at welding it back together.
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Steve_P Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Dec/07/2021 at 12:40pm
I have USA Nicholson that I bought right when they were moving production offshore.  I do have some of the imported ones, but I haven't used them yet as they're "spares" that I got a good deal on.  
If the Nicholson isn't available, Bahco makes files for Snap On, most are made in Portugal, and you can buy them from Bahco/Williams dealers online; Abolox.com is a source
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote tomj Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Dec/07/2021 at 10:49pm
I forget where I got my Nicholsons, maybe they're imports. Probably I was sloppy when I bought them. I'll see if I can research. And I'll look at Bahco, thanks.

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1961 Roadster American, 195.6 OHV, T5
http://www.ramblerLore.com

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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote CamaroDoc Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Dec/26/2023 at 9:58pm
Here's a suggestion that has served well... Check pawn shops, swap meets, garage sales, etc. for good quality older tools. Not just files...
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