File Filosophy
Being some Hints regarding the proper Methods of using Files and the various Applications of the most common Files

FILE FILOSOPHY dulls the extreme points of the teeth, thus working against the desired end in both particulars. When Oil May Be Used Oil may, however, be used to good advantage on new files which are put immediately to work upon narrow fibrous metals of a harder nature; in such cases, it is not uncommon, with good workmen, to fill the teeth with oil and chalk. Oil is also useful on fine files in the finishing of wrought iron or steel, as by its use, the teeth will not penetrate to the same degree and the disposition to “pin” and scratch the work is materially less than when used dry. Cleaning the File The dust and small particles removed from the material operated upon are always more or less liable to clog and fill the teeth. This tendency is especially aggravated when the file is used upon wood, horn, and such other materials as will, upon being mixed with the oil in the teeth, become baked when dry, and thus prevent the teeth from penetrating the work as well as giving them the appearance of being worn and tending to injure them by rust. In removing oil from the teeth of a new file, a ready way is to rub chalk or charcoal across the teeth and brush thoroughly. By repeating the operation a few times, the oil will be entirely absorbed and the file will be in the best possible condition for use upon cast iron. NICHOLSON FILE C O . 25