Proper use of Diamond Files:

 

Diamond files are recognized as being the best for metal filing. (google it)

That being said there are two ways to short live a diamond file:

1. Nickel Alloy Frets: pressing too hard clogs the file with the maleable soft nickel fret, getting the clog out is next to impossible. The proper method is light strokes, let the diamond do the cutting, and often clear the debris from fret, and clear the file with a belt sander eraser.

2. Stainless Steel Frets: Diamond files easily cut Stainless, but if pressed too hard to the SS the grit digs into the SS it starts a tug of war between the bite of the grit in the SS and the grit is attached/occluded with nickel plating to the steel file, the nickel is softer and so the the grit gets torn out. Use only light strokes without pushing the file into the SS.

Two reasons Diamond files are used instead of metal:

1. Diamond files are bi-directional Vs one directional serrated steel files.
2. A steel file must be at least 3x harder than the SS for it to work. Fret files sold everywhere are not this hardness of steel. The process of making such hardened steel files is quite expensive.

 

Proper use:
The right file for the job:
1. Use the Crown Narrowing File first, mark top of fret with sharpie, file until the line is very thin along the length of the fret. Crown narrow file does not cut top of the fret.

2. Use the 150 grit file to level, radius and round the crown.

3. Use the 300 grit file to finish, smoothing the fret. Never use this for leveling.

4. Let the weight of the file do the work without pressing down. Then adjust as you get the hang of things.

5. Clean the file: Use a Belt sander Eraser.

6. Use File Spray

Best Practice: Treat the file with dry silicon, a light application, not heavy... and use the belt sander eraser as you work, giving the file an occasional erase. Let the weight of the file do most of the work.

Maestro Replacement Files: $40 + Tax + S/H