You can extend the life of your broadhead file by chalking it when new and repeating this process after every cleaning. I learned this little trick from my 9th grade Metal Shop teacher, Mr. Grubb.
When you file a broadhead, or any metal object, small shavings build up in the ruts or valleys of the file. This is called pinning, which can get so bad that it renders your file useless. The use of chalk helps reduce pinning and allows for easier cleaning of your file and a longer life. Any type of chalk will work.
Apply an even layer to both sides of your new file and make sure you clean your file often with a metal brush to remove the metal shavings that build up on top of the chalk. I like the small, fine, toothbrush-sized ones. Remember to re-chalk your file and you’re ready to go.
Excellent tip on chalking files.
Another file tip is to never draw the file back over the work. doing so will dull the file. Alway push the file into the work and lift it on the return and repeat for each stroke. My old machine tool instructor would have a fit when he saw someone going back and forth with the file in constant contact.
A file card is the best tool for cleaning a file. If you haven’t seen one before, they are like a short bristle (5/16″) wire brush 1-1/2 x 4-1/2″ breadth x length. Like a file, it is meant to clean in one direction only and because of the stiffness of the short bristle they clean the grooves better.
And use the right file for the job, ie a wood file on metal, etc.
Sweet , never new this
I echo Jerry’s comment…and at my age I’m a little embarrassed I didn’t!
Thank you for another great tip. I assume the chalk acts as a “release agent”?