file set from HF?

Although I haven't specifically used the files from HF, files and most cutting tools are FAR better when you purchase a quality brand (usually but not always US made). A file will tend to last nearly a lifetime of casual use if it's good to begin with. Buy quality once, and it'll be a joy to use forever.

I have, by the way, used China and Taiwan files in the past...an order of magnitude worse than a good (old) Nicholson made in the USA. I can't specifically speak to the current crop of either though.

On a similar note, I was amazed that sandpaper has the same difference. Ignoring the generic crap, even branded stuff at the homeowner hell shop can't come close to good commercial paper. Klingspor sels roll ends like the bargain boxes listed at

With files, drill bits, sandpaper, and other similar tools, cheaper seems more important than time when purchasing. However, the aggrivation factor from poor cutting tools will make saving a couple of bucks far from worth it in the long run.

Koz

Got them ,love them. 3-sq, round, half-round. Ones I got were $1.99 with a wooden handle, dunnon about ones with plastic red handle.

I file blue steel for accordion reeds and it IS TOUGH at RC50. The HF files have plenty of bite for it.

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So true. I made the mistake of buying some chi-com sheets and shop rolls. It is so bad I wont even get it away. Really terrible abrasive. No more cheap abrasives for me.

As far as the HF files, I actually have a set in my shop. Id say they were worth the $3 the set of 5 cost, though I dont use them all that often.

This is especially true of taps and dies!!