What type of file is used for smoothing and shaping metal and wood surfaces?

The best choice for smoothing and shaping both metal and wood surfaces is the mill file. Mill files are specifically designed with a flat surface and parallel edges, making them effective for producing a smooth, flat finish. They have a fine, single-cut pattern that allows for precise shaping and finishing work, which is particularly beneficial in both metal and wood applications.

The versatility and effectiveness of mill files stem from their construction; they are typically used in a push motion and can efficiently remove material while leaving a fine, refined finish capable of being sanded or polished afterwards. Their design makes them ideal not only for shaping but also for adjusting dimensions and fine-tuning edges on various materials.

In contrast, other types of files such as hand files and rasps, while useful in their own right, may not provide the same level of smoothness across both metal and wood surfaces. Hand files, for instance, may be utilized for finer detail work, but they aren’t as universally effective as mill files. Rasps are typically used for more aggressive material removal on wood due to their coarser teeth, making them less applicable for metalwork. Diamond files, while effective for very hard materials, are often used for finishing purposes rather than general shaping due to their specialized nature