Lutz File Handles, Still Made in USA

Maine Wood Concepts makes 4 styles of file handles and 2 file cards, sold under the Lutz File & Tool Co. name. The picture shows the deluxe Lutz #11 file handle, US Patent 2676811.

"Lutz® Wood File Handles and File Cleaners are Made in the USA to exacting tolerances from Quality New England hardwoods. These Wood File Handles use only quality materials and finishes to deliver a quality appearance, comfort and durability. Lifetime replacement guarantee against defects in material and workmanship. Lutz, Since 1904. Made in USA."

Lutz Products at Maine Wood Concepts

Lutz File & Tool began in 1904 in Cincinnati, Ohio, and once made files. There is still a Lutz Tool Co. in Cincinnati. It appears that the file handle business was sold to Maine Wood Concepts.

Lutz #11 file handle (not in production)

If you are looking for an adjustable file handle similar to the Lutz #11 (discontinued), try these:

General Tools 318-890 43666 File And Tool Handle
http://www.generaltools.com/890--Adjustable-Filetool-Handle_p_544.html

Woodcraft Universal File Handle, Item #144947
http://www.woodcraft.com/product/2000280/730/universal-file-handle.aspx

Cleaning and Storing Your Files

Files are cleaned with a file card. Here are Lutz file cards with a pick for cleaning the file card.
eBay Lutz #10 File Card

Here are excellent Nicholson file cards (I bought one):
eBay Nicholson 21467 File Card & Brush USA

If you want to make your own longer file card, buy the brush by the foot.
eBay FILE-CARD-REPLACEMENT-STEEL-WIRE-BRUSH

Since files are bare high-carbon steel, they can rust in a humid environment. If your files are stored in an unheated building or basement, I recommend opening the file boxes so that humidity is not trapped inside. Don't seal or wrap them in plastic. The swings in temperature that we have been experiencing can trap humid air in sheds and garages where it will condense like dew and cause rust. It happened in my detached garage in spring 2013. Ideally, store extra files in heated and cooled space.

Colton's File card

Nicholson patent file card