Thought I'd renew the thread, since the information I thought I'd relay (didn't invent any of this myself) is really on point.First, need to determine if the file is dull, or clogged. If it's clogged, several methods of cleaning were mentioned, they'll all work. The acid thing would work here in some cases. It will also sharpen the file, but it's like using a buffing wheel to sharpen a fundamentally dull knife. It'll be sharp as all getout, but not for long. It's a poor solution to the problem. If it's dull, MOST LIKELY cause is abuse. Number one, rust. Cure, don't let your files rust. Period. BTW, they're rust candy. Number two, think about the only thing hard enough to really affect the teeth of a file, another file. How are most files stored? In a drawer, loose, rubbing against other files. Cure, store them separately from other files. Little scabbard, pouch, wrapped in paper, anything, but don't let them rub together. It's like storing sandpaper face to face, doesn't even make sense. Number three, as mentioned, shouldn't draw a file backwards on the return stroke on whatever you are filing, lift it. Needless wear. Do you know how much you like the orbital action of your new sawzall? Same thing, try it, you'll like it. Honestly, I can't imagine ever wearing a file out if it's used, stored and cared for properly. I treat mine like plane irons or chisels. Regular old Nicholsons I bought at a flea market. I read all this information many moons ago, and while I don't believe everything I read and hear, it does all make sense. And I'm not holier than thou, either, just happened across all this info just before I bought my first (and last) set of files. Don't ask me why I have followed this regimen for my files more carefully than I've cared for my $10K cars! But they're as good as new, probably becasue of what I've read, I've used them VERY heavily. Tools
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