Nut files modified.

[Taffy Evans]

Hi, I have a set of these Music Nomad diamond nut files, and they work fine in the cutting department, but for me, they are too small, and with my hand on the yellow handle it restricts my view of the job.

So to make them more in line with my other nut files, I did as shown in the photo. It also permits better light access from my bench light.

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Also if you go shopping, I found a difference of $20.00 each, between the retail price of some dealers.
Cheers Taff

[kiwigeo]

Theyre bldi expensive those files. I use the Japanese files and run them through a piece of candle to lubricate them while cutting slots.

[Robert Gleason]

Those files are indeed expensive, but they are worth it. I have several different sets of files, and in truth no set works for every occasion. The Nomad files are very good. I like the Nomad files better because you don't need to worry about them binding. When I use my Japanese files, I plunge them into a can of paste wax, so that they don't bind.Taffy, what holds the files in your handles? I agree that the little plastic handles are a bit small. Thanks, Bob

[Taffy Evans]

Hi Bob, the inserted file is a loose fit in a slot, and then I have a thin hardwood shim that I push in that holds the file really tight.

Should that fail over time I have another method I have used before that uses two screws one at each end. but I think this will work and was far quicker and easier.

These were $20.00 cheaper than another Australian supplier, an cheaper again for me from my wholesaler.
Taff

[Robert Gleason]

Thanks. I was thinking maybe a little set screw, but that means going to look for the Allen wrench to change files. I'll try the shim fit.-Bob

[Taffy Evans]

Hi Bob, I did not mention it earlier but, the handle shown was one of 8, one for each file. I did not want to change files either.
Taff

[Robert Gleason]

O.K. Makes sense.-Bob

[lamanoditrento]

I find tuner posts and strings are in the way of the correct slot angle on a strung instrument as well with those files. Thanks Taff, good idea I think I will make a handle too.

[Taffy Evans]

Hi Trent, yes, I found that, and the fact that the plastic end of the file holder was too close to the peghead finish for my liking. While I like the idea of wooden handles I may go to plastic. As I would need 10 or so handles, I thought I would get my grandson in Adelaide to 3D print them for me. He can sit back and let it happen. He has printed a few tools for me in recent times.
Cheers Taff

[Taffy Evans]

Hi, further to this project of modifying the Nomad nut files.
I decided that when making a whole set I would do it this way, utilising part of the original. This gives me better visual access than I had with my original design.
I do like the quick cutting of the diamond file, but the functionality of the original plastic file was woeful. The overhang at the front was the problem for me.

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Cheers Taff