• You're one step from joining Hand Tools Forum – Reviews, Techniques & DIY Applications.
    Create a free account to post, follow threads, and never miss an update.  Sign up free →

Looking for a durable file

Cableholder

New member
Joined
Jun 4, 2025
Messages
2
City & State/Province
Kentucky
I've used plenty of files in the past, but none of them seem to last as long. A neighbour of mine mentioned tungsten carbide as the best there is, but an opinion from one person isn't' something I'd like to rely on, so I ask you experts is this truye or not?
 
I've used plenty of files in the past, but none of them seem to last as long. A neighbour of mine mentioned tungsten carbide as the best there is, but an opinion from one person isn't' something I'd like to rely on, so I ask you experts is this truye or not?
oh, your neighbor isn't wrong about tungsten carbide
When it comes to extreme durability for files, tungsten carbide is up there, often found in the form of carbide burrs or as the base for diamond coated files
 
Tungsten carbide files are much harder than steel files, they can cut through harder materials and stay sharp for a lot longer. They might cost a bit more upfront but a good tungsten carbide file can be a good investment if you're looking for something that lasts!
 
I've used plenty of files in the past, but none of them seem to last as long. A neighbour of mine mentioned tungsten carbide as the best there is, but an opinion from one person isn't' something I'd like to rely on, so I ask you experts is this truye or not?
I couldn't agree more with @TacoTime and @koenig1988!
Tungsten carbide are definitely a step up in durability compared to standard steel files.
They're not cheap, but for extended use, they can certainly be worth the investment!
 
Another choice is HSS files. They're usually easier on your wallet than tungsten carbide. Now, if you're looking at diamond-coated files, they might cost about the same or a bit more, depending on how big and good they are.
 
Back
Top