Nut Files - Where to buy/Which to get?

Jo6Pak · #1 10-07-2009, 05:37 PM

I have been looking at nut files on various websites for the last couple hours and still am unable to determine what to buy. I am increasingly doing more nut work on my own basses and want to simplify the process. I typically use string gauges 45-65-80-100, or thereabouts. In my search, I have come across most every size BUT those. I guess my (first) question is, should I try to get a file the same size as each string, slightly larger or slightly smaller? I mean, they must be off sizes (58, 68, etc) for a reason. That may be obvious to some of you, but not to me and I want to make certain to buy the correct files. Secondly, where does one obtain said files? I've looked at at the obvious places (Stew-Mac, Warmoth), as well a some lesser known (to me) websites and what appear to be mom & pop joints.

If I'm going to shell out ~$80 for these, I'd like to have some comfort in knowing that at least I will have the right tools, even if I end up being incompetent with them.

THANKS!

jworrellbass · #2 10-07-2009, 05:48 PM

I just use a set of needle files from Home Depot. I think they cost $10, works fine.

Zooberwerx · #3 10-07-2009, 05:58 PM

I use both the Stew-Mac nut files (below) for the big jobs and needle files for the touch-up work. Then again, I also use drill bits and emery cloth for the final slot sanding.

.042 - G
.065 - D
.085 - A
.105 - E
.120 - B

Please note the E / B is a combination file. The .120 may seem a little narrow but you can widen the slot a tad by doing a little side-to-side "wiggle" while filing.

Riis

dmusic148 · #4 10-07-2009, 06:09 PM

I got the StewMac ones. They make a single-edged .046 and .065. Then for your .080, get the .085 file and just grind it a bit narrower. Ditto for the .100- get the .105 and grind it.

Jo6Pak · #5 10-07-2009, 06:11 PM

hey zoober - up to now i have been using your drill bit trick with some success, but also don't mind springing for some 'proper' tools as long as i know what i'm buying.

worrell - i have needle files, but the are all tapered and not the correct (desirable) sizes. it is also my understanding (from limited reading on the subject) that these types of files are not recommended for this particular task.

in other words, i've been making do with what i have, but in the past i have accumulated dozens of tools for work on my harley, so i might as well round up a few for this as well, since my interest in either will likely not go away any time soon.

Jo6Pak · #6 10-07-2009, 06:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dmusic148

I got the StewMac ones. They make a single-edged .046 and .065. Then for your .080, get the .085 file and just grind it a bit narrower. Ditto for the .100- get the .105 and grind it.

not a bad idea, i'll keep it in mind. at present, with my limited knowledge, i am leaning toward this set from warmoth:

http://www.warmoth.com/Nut-Files-for...7-P46C215.aspx

again, the sizes are mostly larger or smaller than i would have hoped, which brings me back to the original question: which is better, bigger or smaller?

erikbojerik · #7 10-07-2009, 06:45 PM

Like these guys I use the StewMac nut slotting files, and then tweek the slot widths with a small needle file. Since the needle file tapers you just file to part of the needle that is the width you're shooting for.

Its better to be slightly wide so the string doesn't bind in the slot and cause tuning problems - but too wide and the string will rattle in the slot and cause funky overtones (especially noticeable on brass nuts).