beginning to get a nice group of files for small tasks like sights and such, found a 60˚ with 2 sides blind for dovetails.

Today I noticed a few are beginning to show signs of rust. A few years back I was told, not a big deal, it can somewhat make them sharper, but is it really OK? I have heard that they should never be oiled since they will clog. I use non oiled chalk when using them. I was also advised to keep them in a container of lime, which I have done.

What say you wizards of metal work?


thanks,

Rob

Rob

I would just go ahead and oil them, they came from the factory that way. If the oil really bothers you degrease them before using.

I may get strung up here, but I use oil with my files. Yes I know, use dry/use with chalk, and I did that for many years. But a couple of years ago, I started thinking, I use oil for taps/dies, milling cutters, lathe bits etc…anywhere I’m cutting steel with steel I use an oil based lubricant….so why not files?

Started using WD-40 with my files, no ill effects, keeps the swarf from galling and clogging the teeth. Clean with a file card, files are still sharp & cut as well as ever.

V/R

Mike

Rob

Use cutting oil on mine. Seem to last longer and cut better.

Bill

Clean file.? I use a piece of copper tubing..Make flat with a hammer on the end. A couple strokes to grove the the teeth. Result super clean files. Try it. Whitey

Rob, I have to agree with Mike Hunter here, at the end of every working day I use WD40 on the files I have used during that period of work after cleaning them with a file card to remove any traces of chalk used to help prevent filings clogging up the teeth and scarring the work.

I cannot see any future in covering your files with lime. This is hygroscopic and attracts moisture and will therefore cause metal to rust. Living in a more of less permanently damp atmosphere in England as I do, you have to be very aware of rust on every ferrous metal surface.

Harry

I've used a 1/8" x 3" piece of brass sheet to clean files via a Lynton McKenzie suggestion. About three strokes and it's grooved to fit the tooth pattern. Then a nylon bristle brush. Chalk for anti-clog, almost nothing rusts in MT.

"almost nothing rusts in MT"

Wish I could say that about NY, my dehumidifier bought it and while waiting for the new one the basement shop is like a swimming pool.

Down here, if the humidity EVER falls below 50%, we all think The Rapture is here!
Regards, Joe

I lived in Western Oregon for 17 years, I know about humidiy & rust!
In eastern MT, park a car, take out the battery and leave it for 20 years, its OK.

Oil will hold particles on files and make the teeth clog. For small files, I brush them out with a file brush, clean in my ultrasonic cleaner, dry thoroughly then immerse in vinegar for a few days. This converts the rust if any, and slightly etches them. On the tips of the teeth where the metal is thin, this etching is enough to actually sharpen the teeth. Another trip through the ultrasonic leaves them perfectly clean and rust free 'in the white', dry and they're ready to use.