Uploaded April 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
Learn the basics of gunsmith files and how to use them in this Brownells Tech Tip with Caleb. In this video, Caleb breaks down the most common types of files used in gunsmithing, explains the difference between American pattern and Swiss pattern files, and shows how file shape, cut, and coarseness affect the way they remove material. If you are new to bench work or trying to build a better understanding of hand fitting and surface cleanup, this video gives you a strong foundation.
Caleb covers flat files, round files, square files, triangular files, half-round files, tapered files, rasps, needle files, file handles, file cards, and file chalk. He also explains when to use coarse files versus finer files, how to keep file teeth clean, and how proper vise height and filing technique help you get flatter, cleaner results. The video wraps up with a practical look at standard filing, draw filing, and lathe filing so you can better understand how files are actually used in real gunsmithing work.
If you are setting up a gunsmithing bench, learning metalworking basics, or trying to choose the right file for your next firearm project, this is a great place to start.
Chapters
00:08 Introduction to gunsmith files
00:15 What this video will cover
00:38 Basic hand files and common file shapes
01:21 Why cheap files wear out too fast
02:15 American pattern files explained
02:31 Single cut vs double cut files
03:17 Smooth, second cut, and bastard cut
03:57 Swiss pattern files explained
04:30 Needle files and fine detail work
04:47 Round files and when to use them
05:07 Square files and safety edges
06:06 Swiss number 2 larger file overview
06:19 Caleb’s most-used gunsmith files
06:59 60-degree triangular file for dovetails
07:15 Half-round files and rasps
08:16 File handles and how they work
09:10 Choosing the right file for the job
09:44 Why filing technique takes practice
10:10 File accessories: file card and cleaning
11:17 File chalk and preventing clogging
12:26 Proper vise setup for filing
13:19 Standard filing technique
15:52 Draw filing explained
17:01 Lathe filing basics
17:34 Final thoughts on gunsmith files
In this video:
American pattern file basics
Swiss pattern file basics
Single cut vs double cut files
Smooth, second cut, and bastard cut explained
Round, square, triangular, and half-round files
Safety edge files
File chalk and file card use
How to choose a gunsmith file
How to file metal flat
Draw filing and lathe filing basics
Need help picking the right tools for your bench? Brownells has the files, tools, and tech support to help you get the job done right.
Learn the basics of gunsmith files and how to use them in this Brownells Tech Tip with Caleb. In this video, Caleb breaks down the most common types of files used in gunsmithing, explains the difference between American pattern and Swiss pattern files, and shows how file shape, cut, and coarseness affect the way they remove material. If you are new to bench work or trying to build a better understanding of hand fitting and surface cleanup, this video gives you a strong foundation.
Caleb covers flat files, round files, square files, triangular files, half-round files, tapered files, rasps, needle files, file handles, file cards, and file chalk. He also explains when to use coarse files versus finer files, how to keep file teeth clean, and how proper vise height and filing technique help you get flatter, cleaner results. The video wraps up with a practical look at standard filing, draw filing, and lathe filing so you can better understand how files are actually used in real gunsmithing work.
If you are setting up a gunsmithing bench, learning metalworking basics, or trying to choose the right file for your next firearm project, this is a great place to start.
Chapters
00:08 Introduction to gunsmith files
00:15 What this video will cover
00:38 Basic hand files and common file shapes
01:21 Why cheap files wear out too fast
02:15 American pattern files explained
02:31 Single cut vs double cut files
03:17 Smooth, second cut, and bastard cut
03:57 Swiss pattern files explained
04:30 Needle files and fine detail work
04:47 Round files and when to use them
05:07 Square files and safety edges
06:06 Swiss number 2 larger file overview
06:19 Caleb’s most-used gunsmith files
06:59 60-degree triangular file for dovetails
07:15 Half-round files and rasps
08:16 File handles and how they work
09:10 Choosing the right file for the job
09:44 Why filing technique takes practice
10:10 File accessories: file card and cleaning
11:17 File chalk and preventing clogging
12:26 Proper vise setup for filing
13:19 Standard filing technique
15:52 Draw filing explained
17:01 Lathe filing basics
17:34 Final thoughts on gunsmith files
In this video:
American pattern file basics
Swiss pattern file basics
Single cut vs double cut files
Smooth, second cut, and bastard cut explained
Round, square, triangular, and half-round files
Safety edge files
File chalk and file card use
How to choose a gunsmith file
How to file metal flat
Draw filing and lathe filing basics
Need help picking the right tools for your bench? Brownells has the files, tools, and tech support to help you get the job done right.
