How to Sharpen a File?
Because Files Are Made of Hardened High-Carbon Steel and Their Teeth Are Numerous and Small, the Easiest Way to Sharpen Them Is with an Acid. I've Used...
Because files are made of hardened high-carbon steel and their teeth are numerous and small, the easiest way to sharpen them is with an acid. I've used vinegar—acetic acid—and drain cleaner—sulfuric acid. The acids react with the iron in steel, removing metal from the surface.
How do I refurbish a file?
- brush off any loose matter.
- degrease.
- clean off all debris.
- degrease a second time if thought necessary.
- soak in your chosen acid*
- rinse thoroughly then give the file a quick scrub with a stiff brush (a toothbrush is ideal) using common hand soap.
- pat dry.
What is the best file for sharpening?
In most circumstances a single cut file will be your best choice. For sharpening garden tools, I suggest using a single cut file that is 8-12 inches in length, with either bastard or second cut coarseness. A bastard file will cut faster, but I have come to like the smoother edge left by a second cut file.
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