10″ Half Round File (pictured with blue handle)
This sharpening file has two sides each with its own purpose. One is round for sharpening your round point shovels, while the second side is flat for sharpening flat bladed tools such as garden hoes, spades etc.
The flat side is double cut (with cutting lines running in both directions), so it removes metal very quickly but by the same token leaves a coarser finish than the Farmer’s Own file. Because of it’s aggressiveness, this file is great for repairing damaged edges and for initial sharpening of very dull tools.
Note: the handle on this file can be reused on another file when this one goes dull.
10″ Farmer’s Own File (with integrated metal handle)
This sharpening file is both single and double cut, so it does double duty.
The single cut side (lines running in one direction) is ideal for putting a relatively smooth, ready-to-use cutting edge on your flat bladed gardening tools – weeders, hoes, spades etc.
The double cut side removes metal quickly and leaves a coarser edge, so it is best for initial sharpening of very dull or damaged tools.
Like sharpening stones, files come in various “grits” which determine how fast metal is removed and how smooth an edge it leaves. This particular file is a “second cut”, so it leaves a smoother finish than a “bastard” file but a coarser finish than a “smooth cut” file. I find this to be a nice middle ground that removes metal quickly enough but leaves a smooth finish. Check this out if you’d like to learn a bit more about sharpening files.
If you can only have one, this is your best bet.
Important Note: We are now sourcing this file from Bahco, it is slightly larger than the file pictured.
Sharpening File Set (save 15%)
These two files make a nice team. The half round will take care of your round point shovels and quickly sharpen any very dull or damaged tools. The farmer’s own is a great follow-up which will smooth your cutting edges and maintain your blades over the course of the season.
Sharpening files do have a lifespan and will dull over time. Using these files in combination will lengthen the usable life of each.
Our half round file is made in Portugal by Bludan, one of the oldest file manufacturers in Europe, dating back to 1792.
Our Farmer’s File is also made in Portugal, but by the Bahco compay.
Read our article – How To Sharpen Garden Tools
Or watch this video:
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