files for dumbies

[Zonie]

If there is an ACE hardware store around where you live you might give them a try.

I've found that their tools are pretty good quality wise. Much better than WalMart's.

Ace has started carrying Craftsman tools recently and they are pretty good too.

 

[mattybock]

Their is no ACE, but a long drive is Harbor Freight. I had a look on their web site and have found a good deal on 'quality' files (I took that with a rock of salt.)

I can't afford quality right now, that's for the future.

Thanks to the link there and some PDF files through google I'm getting a better idea of what file grades are for what job and what material.

Wish people wouldn't rag on Harbor so much, they offer tools to people who normally could not afford any tools of any kind.

 

[tallbear]

I buy all my files here Link; MSC Supply They have any kind of file you can imagine,check out their sale flyer they always have Nicholsons on sale.
You cant do quality work with poor quality tools.You will be better off with a few quality tools that a bunch of junk.

 

[tallbear]

double post

 

[paulvallandigham]

I agree with Tallbear, with this added observation. Unlike screwdriver sets, which can offer a real bargain for folks without much money, you want to buy files ONE AT A TIME-- AS NEEDED--
Rather than try to buy "Sets" of files. Some specialty files Are best purchased in "sets", but you will best learn how to use files properly, and on what kind of metals, using them one at a time.

Going to flea markets and to estate sales is also an excellent way to get good bargains n old tools. Often, you will find tools that may have some dirt or dust, and rust on them but were never used! These generally are tools that someone bought in "Sets" and found he only used one or two of the files from the set for the work he was doing. :shocked2: :hmm: :thumbsup:

I still have some chisels I bought from an estate sale for an old gunsmith, that I bought for $1.00 for a bundle of 3 chisels. They were used, but in great shape, and are still some of the best wood chisels I own. I bought these back in 1973, when I was just out of law school, still paying for student loans, and not making much money as an ***'t Public Defender. I could not afford expensive tools then, but I saved my money and took advantage of sales of the good tools, and slowly added to my collection of tools over the years.

I still always check tables with tools on them at flea markets, antique sales, and estate sales. I can afford to buy new tools, now, but my Swedish ancestors appreciate my being "frugal"! :rotf:

 

[VTdeerhunter]

I count myself as pretty lucky, my grandfather not only left me with a pile of great old files, he also taught me how to use and care for them.... he was a blacksmith and also did a lot of mold and pattern making. Some of them are pretty worn, but many are still like brand new sharp....as was stated earlier, take good care of good tools and your grandson will be using them some day... :thumbsup: