Cleaning files??

[Onions]

How do ya'll get your files clean? I have a couple of good files, I use them apx. 1 year, then they seemed to be so gummed up, that I can't seem to get BH sharp like I did when the file was new.
I have used file cards, with limited success.
I would like to get more then one year out of a file.
Please help

chris <><

[ishoot4thrills]

I use a wire brush.

[JamesV]

For gummy build up on files I have used brake cleaner and a file card. Might soak in paint thinner and then use the file card but I haven't tried that...............James

[Buckeye Trad Hunter]

Originally posted by ishoot4thrills:
I use a wire brush.

X2

[Orion]

Chalk them before each use to reduce fouling and extend their life.

[gregk]

Originally posted by ishoot4thrills:
I use a wire brush.

same here

[metsastaja]

Originally posted by Buckeye Trad Hunter:
 

Originally posted by ishoot4thrills:
I use a wire brush.

X2 [/b]

x3.. I have also just started chalking my files be fore use.. seems to lubricate and slows down build up.

[topGUN]

Are yall using just regular chalkboard chalk?

Jeff

[ksbowman]

I use soap stone and it has a slickness to it that seems to lubricate as well and cleans out of the file flutes easily.

I use a monster magnet.

[Ray Hammond]

Maybe they're worn out?

[Yellow Dog]

I use a big old stick of chalk that I chalk my box calls with. Builds a buffer to keep the filings from collecting between the teeth of the file and staying there. To clean them out I use a Nicholson file card, it's like a wire brush but much finer. With the chalk base if you load the file up with junk you can get it out with the card. If not, it turns into a solid mass of steel. Not a problem if you want to keep buying new files  :mad:

[KYArcher]

File Card. I chalk my files before use. KY

[bolong]

I have files I use on broadheads only. I clean them with with an old toothbrush.

[JAG]

Chalk or soapstone.  Makes a file last alot longer.

[Ray_G]

Definitely use chalk before filing, clean the file and re-chalk as necessary.  Gunsmithing supply stores carry large diameter, soft chalk for files.

A trick I learned while gunsmithing is to clean the file teeth with a brass cartridge case.  Flatten the case mouth in a vise about a 1/2" inch down the case (I use a .38).  Run the flattened case mouth edge across the file teeth - not down the length of the file.  Once the teeth cut into the brass enough, it will act like a small comb.  The brass is way easier on the file teeth than a file card.

[SEMO_HUNTER]

Originally posted by Ray_G:
Definitely use chalk before filing, clean the file and re-chalk as necessary.  Gunsmithing supply stores carry large diameter, soft chalk for files.

A trick I learned while gunsmithing is to clean the file teeth with a brass cartridge case.  Flatten the case mouth in a vise about a 1/2" inch down the case (I use a .38).  Run the flattened case mouth edge across the file teeth - not down the length of the file.  Once the teeth cut into the brass enough, it will act like a small comb.  The brass is way easier on the file teeth than a file card.

I had no idea Ray? I had never heard of chalking, using soap stone, or a brass casing........and I have all 3 on hand! That's what's great about this site, some highly skilled individuals hanging out around here.  

[Friend]

Showing my ignorance here.

I had always believed that chalk, normally used for turkey box calls, was oil free and would not be the optimum choice for a file.

Please set me straight.

[WESTBROOK]

What  Ray_G said, I have done the same thing with a piece of aluminum. I use wire brushes too but they are brass brushes. Cards and steel wire brushes can help dull your file.

Eric

[beetlebailey1977]

Soapstone works great...and clean them more often with the file card.