Your Files

[gudspelr]

As with a lot of stuff out there, you tend to get what you pay for.  I don't have much money but am wanting to get something better than my Harbor Freight needle files.  What are your favorite files (make, size, cost) and where do you get them? I've been thinking about this for a little while but the recent guard filing thread pushed me over to trying to figure a better file setup for myself. Since I don't have a grinder, files do pretty much all my work, both for the blade as well as guards and metal spacers. Your suggestions would be much appreciated.

Jeremy

[Lin Rhea]

I like Grobet Habilus files for working guards and such. Nicholson is pretty good as well as Simmonds for general filing. I like to have a cheap set of needle files for final fitting guards and a another cheap set of diamond needle files for breaking the "crust" on steel thats been hardened and drawn back. After I get the crust broke, the regular files will bite.

[kbaknife]

I like the Nicholson and Simmonds and some "Black..." something or other.
I once tried to keep track of the files I used making one knife once and ended up with something like:

 

Then I had to work on a storage system that would allow me to see what file I was choosing:

 

This doesn't even take into account the drawers full of files!
Oh, my!!
Whenever you're out somewhere and have a few bucks in your pocket - buy files.
Yard sales, specials in building supplies, wherever.

[Ragnarok Forge]

Jeremy,  

Definitely hit garage sales, and poke around on fleabay you can get needle files at ok prices there. I am shopping for good needle files to start work on fitting some wrought iron guards for two large pig hunting knives that have been languishing in my shop for a while.

I am poking around and looking at buying a new grinder.  If I do that we should talk about me, a truck, and an 800 lb grinder taking a long road trip to your place.  I bought that huge two wheel grinder I have in my shop for cheap and would part with it for you cheap once I have an upgrade.  It is the red one you used when you visited.  

I am not sure when I will have the cash together to buy the new grinder but your the only guy I would be looking to get the grinder too. I you don't want it I will keep it in my shop and use it for serious material hogging.

[gudspelr]

Clay, your generosity never ceases to amaze me.  I appreciate the offer but can honestly say it just wouldn't fit in my garage but if you're ever this way you'll have to stop on by.  Hope all is well with you and the family.

Jeremy