Unknown tool

[GeoffTParticipant @geofft]

Hi, I came across this the other day and wondered if anybody knows what it is.

It looks like a small file but the two faces are smooth, the edges have very fine teeth like a file. It is 150mm long x 6mm wide x 1.5mm thick. The handle is stamped with Bedford, Sheffield, England and it has a number 4 stamped on.

Thanks

Geoff

[GeoffTParticipant @geofft]

[Clive Brown 1Participant @clivebrown1]

It's a fairly standard needle file for filing the base of a narrow slot. Many other shapes are available. Bedford is the maker's trade-name. The 4 will be the "cut", fairly smooth.

Edited By Clive Brown 1 on 26/01/2022 16:23:43

[Brian HParticipant @brianh50089]

Usually known as a warding file I believe, due to their use to cut the ward (slots) in lock components including keys.

The are useful when filing slots as they will only cut on the edge and do not widen the slot.

Brian

[Rod RenshawParticipant @rodrenshaw28584]

I agree with Clive's thoughts, but I am not so sure about it being a warding file.

I understand a warding file to be a slimmer version of a normal "flat file", usually double cut on both flat faces and single cut on both edges, and used by locksmiths and others needing narrow slots.

Rod

Edited By Rod Renshaw on 26/01/2022 17:42:13

Edited By Rod Renshaw on 26/01/2022 17:42:46

[Ketan SwaliParticipant @ketanswali79440]

Link: Joint Square Edge Needle Files

It was discussed on this forum in 2018: Link

Link: Joint Round Edge Needle Files

Ketan at ARC

 

Edited By Ketan Swali on 26/01/2022 17:51:13

[GeoffTParticipant @geofft]

Thanks for all the answers. Just shows you never stop learning!

Geoff

[Author]

Posts