These are parallel in width and tapered in thickness. They have one safe edge (smooth edge) that permits filing in corners and on other work where a safe edge is required. Hand files are double cut and used principally for finishing flat surfaces and similar work. [Figure 11-17]

These files are slightly tapered toward the point in both width and thickness. They cut on both edges, as well as on the sides. They are the most common files in use. Flat files are double cut on both sides and single cut on both edges. [Figure 11-17]

These are usually tapered slightly in thickness and in width for about one-third of their length. The teeth are ordinarily single cut. These files are used for draw filing and to some extent for filing soft metals. [Figure 11-17]

These files may be tapered or blunt and are double cut. They are used principally for filing slots and key seats and for surface filing. [Figure 11-17]

These are circular in cross section and may be either tapered or blunt and single or double cut. They are used principally for filing circular openings or concave surfaces. [Figure 11-17]

These files are triangular in cross section. Triangular files are single cut and are used for filing the gullet between saw teeth. Three square files, which are double cut, may be used for filing internal angles, clearing out corners, and filing taps and cutters. [Figure 11-17] be single or double cut. Their shape permits them to be used where other files would be unsatisfactory. [Figure 11-17]

These are especially designed for use on soft metals. They are single cut and are made in various lengths. [Figure 11-17]

Rectangular in section and tapers to narrow point in width. This file is used for narrow space filing where other files