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There are many different types of files in use but four will take care of most of your needs (Fig. J). The flat file is one of the fastest cutting general purpose files you can use. It has a broad surface and removes wood or metal quickly. You should get three flat files with different cuts. One should be a fine single cut which is used when a smooth finish is required. Another flat file should be a double cut type which is used for removing wood or metal at a fast rate. This file leaves a rough surface which must be finished with a smooth file. The other type of flat file should be a rasp which is used for rough work when you want to remove a lot of wood. Figure J. Shapes of files. Still another file you need is a half-round file which is also a good general purpose tool. It has a flat face for flat filing and a curved side for filing curves. This file can also be obtained in different grades of coarseness. A triangular or three-square file is used for filing metal smooth where small surfaces or corners must be worked. It can also be used to cut through heavy wire, rods, fishhooks, and other metal which cannot be cut with ordinary pliers. The triangular file is also handy for sharpening chisels, knives, and other cutting edges. The round file or "rattail" file, as the name implies, is round and tapered toward the end. It is used to enlarge holes and for filing small half-round curves.
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