Full Size (Engineer's)
These coarsest files have a cutting length of about 8", and are useful for the initial shaping of larger pieces of work. The tang of the file is not tempered and is intended to be mounted in a wooden handle.
Habilis
In-between hand and needle files in size, habilis files offer precise control in situations where the cutting power required is more than needle files can offer. Like needle files, habilis files have an integrated handle rather than a sharp tang.
Needle
Miniature tools offering precise control, needle files come in a wide range of shapes to get into hard to reach areas of complex shapes.
Escapement
Escapement files are an even smaller version of needle files, ideal for the most delicate and intricate work. The extremely fine cut of these files result in a highly refined surface.
Riffler
These specialist files feature cutting ends with a large variety of unusual shapes. Rifflers are specifically designed to reach into awkward spaces and can be useful when filing curves.
Broacher/Reamer
A very fine file used for de-burring and enlarging holes, these files usually feature 5 cutting edges around the circumference.
