A triangular file has three sides at a 60 degree angle and is used for sharpening hard-to-reach places like saw teeth. It is not recommended for knife sharpening but is great for saw blade sharpness. Proper care and cleaning are necessary for optimal use.
A triangular file is a specialized tool for cutting and sharpening edges. Its unique three sided design makes it a great tool for sharpening hard to reach places like saw teeth. With proper care and cleaning, this type of file will last for many years and consistently sharpens and smooths surfaces.
A triangular file looks very different from a traditional file. A traditional file is long and flat, with two rough sides, but the triangular file has three sides, each at a 60 degree angle. It is also known by the term “square file,” although it doesn’t resemble that shape.
This type of file comes in a variety of lengths, usually between 4 and 7 inches (101.6 to 177.8 mm), with its thickness increasing proportionately. Each file has a smooth end or wooden handle that users can grip while using. Each of the three sides contains a series of grooves running in two diagonal patterns, creating a series of diamond shapes. These rough edges, when swiped over an unfinished or dull surface, remove excess material and smooth it out.
The main function of a triangular file is to work on corners, grooves and edges. Its unique shape makes its range somewhat limited and it is not recommended for jobs such as knife sharpening. One area where these files outperform their flat-sided cousins is with saw blade sharpness. The narrow notches between the teeth of the blade make it impossible for a traditional file to get between the teeth and sharpen them properly.
Depending on the size of the saw, from small hacksaw teeth to large tree trimming blades, a triangular file fits snugly between the teeth. Running the file between each individual tooth eliminates dullness and returns a sharp point. This technique is time consuming, but is the primary use of a triangular file.
The non-traditional uses of this type of file and equally obscure shape make it necessary to clean properly. It is recommended to rub the chalk on each of the three sides to avoid clogging the grooves during use. In the event of a blockage, a small wire brush is the best tool for removing any material inside the grooves and still keeping those grooves sticky enough to work. No matter whether the job is sharpening a saw or some other specialized job, proper use and care of a triangular saw is essential.
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