About

This site has free downloads of old American file manufacturer catalogs, brochures, instructions, and history, including Canada where possible. The Site Index lists small companies with the large companies that bought them. The information is being updated as needed so please check back. Click on pictures to enlarge them.

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Where To Find American Made Files

There are several sources for superior quality American made files.

eBay under these categories:
  Collectibles / Tools, Hardware & Locks / Tools / several subcategories
  Home & Garden / Tools / Hand Tools / Files
  Home & Garden / Tools / Hand Tools / Other
  Business & Industrial / Manufacturing & Metalworking / Metalworking Tooling
When buying on eBay it is important to look at every possible listing regardless of how vague the description or how poor the pictures. Poor pictures and title can mean a bargain for you, but read the description. When in doubt about whether they are USA-made files, message the seller.

Flea markets are the cheapest source for USA files. Here they go for $1 each, maybe $2, regardless of size. Last summer I got an 18" mill bastard along with several other large files and the seller was surprised anyone was buying them. Try finding an 18" file anywhere.

Digging for Metal: How To Find Used and Vintage Tools at Flea Markets

Independent hardware stores with old stock

Internet forums with classified sections; there are many of these dealing with guns, edge tools, woodworking, machinists, and old machinery.

Craigslist, estate sales, auctions; anyplace there's a toolbox there are probably files.

Comparisons of American-made files versus other files:

Paul Sellers - Nicholson Files and Home Depot Blow It Again

Woodnet Forums - Test of Taper Saw Files

Tools for Working Wood  - We Discontinue Nicholson Patternmaker's Rasps Because of Quality Issues 

VintageSaws.com

No comments:

Post a Comment