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 starting a tug of war between the bite of the grit into the SS and the grit attached/occluded with nickel plating to the steel file substrate, the nickel is softer and so the the grit gets torn out. Use only light strokes without pushing the file into the SS.

Diamond files Vs Searrated Metal Files:

1. Diamond files are bi-directional Vs one directional serrated steel files.
2. A steel file must be at least 5x harder than the SS for it to work. The cost of making such hardened steel files is quite expensive, hence no one makes them.

Best Practice: Treat the file with dry lube, 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.