Precision filing machine

[Bill Bowman]

I've had this contraption in the corner of the shop for over 20 years. It actually works, although the power switch just broke. Made in the USA. Has anybody ever used one?

 

[WhoWhatNow]

Also called a die filer. I just got one up and running in my shop. I haven't used it much but it does make life a little easier in some situations. Yours has the over ram with adds some stability to the file itself.

You need special files that are non-tapered and cut in the down stroke for it however. They can be hard to find and pricey. Falcon Tool sells them https://www.falcontool.com/

 

[Bill Bowman]

Also, have this brochure.

 

[zkling]

They guy that taught me machining couldn't live without one. Granted he was a WWII era tool and die maker so. Now a days they are pretty much obsolete with vertical mills, CNC and EDM processes being so abundant. They have their place and come in handy at time, especially for odd shaped interior cuts, almost like a scroll saw for metal. Next step up is a band file.

 

[justanengineer]

I've had a few off and on, the last one I bought bc the BNIB files with it as did the guy who bought it from me, the machine itself being worth maybe $50 on a good day.

 

[tool_scrounge]

They are handy tools. On the West Coast they are not as common so the prices are higher. The All American has variable speed, which is not that common on die filers and very useful as most die filers run way too fast, which leads to short file life. I have 1.5 of them (one I use and a parts donor). Attached is a photo of what a new one looks like, though there was some variation in overarms, base, etc over the years.

The link below is to a web page that has manuals, etc. I have a spare belt cover if you are looking for one.

http://www.wentztech.com/metalworking/equipment/die-filer/

 

[OccupantRJ]

I have one at work that I sometimes use.