Recommended files for the fledgling gunsmith??

[snappy]

Hey guys, what would be your recommendations for files for someone just starting out with hobby gunsmithing? I'm blown away by the talent and skills some of you have and would appreciate hearing your opinions on the subject. So what files do you use the most? Any particular brands, sizes or sets that have become your go-to for working on your guns? Any info is appreciated.

[geezerd]

This would be a good place to start. ----------- GeezerD


www.brownells.com/gunsmith-tools-supplies/general-gunsmith-tools/files/file-starter-set-prod905.aspx?psize=96

[aciera]

Grobet........end of story.

Never used better.

Never found better.

And I've looked.

[awp101]

snappy, some of the same ground is covered in this thread and I found it useful: www.1911addicts.com/threads/what-would-be-a-good-first-set-of-files.33312/

[princeout]

Hamilton Bowen sometimes teaches NRA Summer Gunsmithing classes at different places around the country. I have been privileged to attend a couple of them in the past. I dug through my emails and found the recommended tool list for the classes. Number 5 was the file suggestions.

5.) Files: get good ones i. e. Nicholson, Grobet, etc. 8 in. Fine and second cut 'hand' (term of
art, not method of operation); 8 in. narrow pillar files ¼ and 5/16; 3/32 and 1/8 round
(untapered) chainsaw files; set of fine needle files; couple of sheets (8X11) each of
100/150/220/320/400/600/1000 grit emory paper (wet/dry).

At the class, or maybe shortly after, there was some discussion of the quality of the Nicholson files. If my memory is correct, which is always a crapshoot these days, I think the manufacturer had changed countries or some such, but some felt the quality had diminished. This was several years back, so who knows if it is still an issue.

Tim

[snappy]

Very useful links and info guys. Thank you.

[geezerd]

After almost 45 years as a toolmaker and gunsmith, I have accumulated between 250 and 300 files of various types. Some of the most used files are standard types found at quality hardware stores. Mill, Half Round, Chainsaw, Triangular, and standard needle files from a quality maker.

A number of specialty files that you will find useful for gunsmithing are - 60 degree dovetail file, checkering files, screw slot files, an assortment of diamond needle files, diamond hones, also a number of files and rasps in various shapes for any stockwork. I would suggest that you refer to the Brownells catalog for a description of the different types of files and uses for each type. While Brownells files can be a little pricey, they do not sell junk. --------------------- GeezerD

[gregs]

If your just starting out and don't know if it'll be your thing, start out with a couple of 4" and 6" Nicholson bastard and mill files, get a belt sander and safe the edges and a set of needle files. As you get going, you can also add some chain saw files to help you out. Once you start to figure it out, you can stick with the Small Nicholsons and replace as needed or step up to the groberts. As stated, you can easily end up with 600 to well over a grand in files.

Once you have the part close, switch to the smoother cutting files then sanding boards.

Sanding board I learned to make during a Vickers 1911 class. You start off with 5 gal paint stir sticks, spray them and some 220 or 320 wet dry paper with 3M spray adhesive and afix the paper to one side. Take a razor knife and run it down the edge gently scaring the paper and fold. Cut again and fold till you have wrapped the paper all the way around. Trim off the remainder of the paper.

[snappy]

Thanks for the good advice Greg. Those sanding boards sound like a great idea too and easy to make. I think Lee mentioned using popsicle sticks in a similar manner. I envy you having had the opportunity to work on your 1911 with LAV looking over your shoulder! Pretty neat.

[axman]

I've got a bunch of Swiss pattern Simonds made in USA and they work great
Maybe I'll sell some eventually.
👍

[johniv]

All good advice here. While you are at it get HANDELS for your files.

[Deleted]

Here's a couple of good videos to check out

www.youtube.com/watch?v=giXGY_jBtjE

www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjUQkhaBuIk

One of my "duh!" moments was when I realized that the final polish on trigger surfaces, and polishing jewelry are very similar actions. Until I saw the last video, I never considered using leather for the final polish.

[snappy]

I have a strop for sharpening knives and have used that for polishing trigger and hammer surfaces a couple times. It worked great and I figured I couldn't get in any trouble with it haha. Thanks for the links.

[Deleted]

BTW, a good set of files is important, but don't forget to buy stones to back them up. Files don't do finish work well at all. I suggest you avoid the diamond type hones and go straight for the good quality stones.

[gregs]

File handles I think are over rated. I have a bunch for needle files and 3-4 for the bigger filees. I occassionally use then for hogging out stuff like grip tanks on a 1911 when fitting a beaver tail but after the heavy lifting is done the are removed so I can stand them up in my file board. Nothing worse to dull up your filles than them clanking around together.

Granted some of the tangs are sharp but a cheap diamond home will break those sharp edge to the point they won't hurt your delicate hands.