What type of file is best for rough filing because it removes material quickly?

The best choice for rough filing that removes material quickly is a double-cut file. Double-cut files have a cross-hatched pattern of teeth which allows them to grip and remove more material with each stroke compared to single-cut files, which only have one set of teeth running in one direction. This design makes double-cut files more aggressive in their action, making them suitable for initial shaping or for removing larger amounts of material from a workpiece.

The effectiveness of double-cut files in rough filing can be seen in their application in various metalworking and woodworking tasks where speed and efficiency are needed. This characteristic is especially useful when quickly reducing the size of stock or smoothing out surfaces before finer finishing is applied.

Other types of files, while useful for different tasks, do not perform as well for rough material removal. For example, single-cut files are better suited for finer work and smoothing because their single row of teeth produces a less aggressive cut. Rasps, on the other hand, are typically used for shaping wood and provide a different form of material removal suited for softer materials. Flat files come in various cuts and are versatile but are often used for moderate material removal rather than aggressive actions.

Overall, the design and purpose of double-cut files make them the preferred tool