Japanese files

[Tengu]

You know those ones that are hacksaw blades in a grid, yes?

What are they called?

Or should I stick to my surform?

 

[Philster]

I have one of those - Shinto rasp. It's not bad and has coarse/not so coarse sides. Pretty much indestructable, too! I do prefer "real" rasps if possible, though - Axminster sell Vallorbe rasps that are pretty darn good.
Hope this helps
Phil

 

[Dave Budd]

yep, Shinto Saw rasps. Axminster are the only place I've foun them in the UK and they are fantstic. I prefer them to traditional rasps myself. Work great on any woods, soft metal, plastic, etc. The coarse side really shifts material and the fine side will leave a surface that can be followed directly by 120 grit paper or a cabinet scraper

 

[Wayne]

I agree with Dave. I own 5 and may get some more. Great bits of kit although I do take the skin off my palm regularly using then two handed.