Smooth File
A fine-cut file that removes little material and leaves a smooth, finished surface on metal.
What is it?
The smooth file has the finest cut grade of the standard file series, with closely spaced teeth that shave tiny amounts of metal. It finishes and polishes edges and surfaces after a coarse or second-cut file has done the heavy removal.
What is it used for?
- Finish-smoothing and polishing metal surfaces
- Final smoothing of edges and small parts
- Deburring after coarse work
Common sizes
- Fine cut grade
- Lengths from 4 to 10 inches
- Flat, round, half-round, and square cross-sections
How to choose
Use a smooth file only after rough shaping; it removes too little metal for heavy work. Match its shape (flat, round, half-round, or square) to the surface you are finishing.
Anatomy
Understanding the parts of a smooth file helps you use, maintain, and buy it with confidence.
- Teeth: the fine, closely spaced cutting edges for a smooth finish
- Cut grade: the fine (smooth) grading of the teeth
- Point: the leading taper that guides the stroke
- Tang: the mount for the handle at the heel
Materials & construction
Files are made from hardened high-carbon steel, with teeth cut at a precise angle. The smooth file is case-hardened so its fine teeth stay sharp while the body remains tough.
Safety & maintenance
- Always fit a handle; a bare tang can stab your hand
- Push the file to cut and lift it on the return to protect the teeth
- Keep the file clean and dry with a file card
- Wear safety glasses
Also known as
smooth-cut file, fine file