Filing
“Files are used for shaving, smoothing and fitting metal parts, and for basic sharpening, such as with axes and lawnmower blades.

For most basic metalwork, a double-cut machine file and a single-cut mill file will work. They are available in four levels of coarseness: coarse, bastard, second and smooth cut. Mill files leave a smoother finish than machine files but cut more slowly.

A double-cut file has two rows of teeth for coarse cutting. The single-cut file has a single row of teeth and cuts smoothly.

 The beauty of this tool is that it’s very long-wearing and can be used in a back-and-forth or even a circular motion.

 For typical cross filing, grip the file with one hand on the handle and the other hand on the point. Stroke the file forward across the work piece at a shallow angle. Apply pressure on the forward stroke and lift the file clear of the work on the return stroke.

 Draw filing is done when a smooth, polished finish is desired. Use a single-cut file gripped as shown.

 Push and pull the file at a right angle to the work piece.”