A two-handled rasp is similar to a pocket rasp but larger and, as the name suggests, has two handles.
There are two styles of two-handled rasp: a plane style which is held and used in the same way you would a wood plane, and a flat file style which is used as you would a file. The main handle is used to push or pull the rasp while the second handle is used to guide and direct the tool.
Just as with pocket rasps, two-handled rasps are not specifically designed for use on plasterboard and have hardened steel blades capable of filing many other materials. Their large size does, however, make them excellent for quickly smoothing down the edges of large, full-length plasterboard sheets.
Their size can, however, make them unsuitable for filing small cut-out sections of plasterboard such as those around light switches or sockets.
As with pocket rasps, the plasterboard shavings and dust are collected within the body of two-handled rasps, although their larger size means that they will require emptying less frequently than pocket rasps.
ADVANTAGES
DISADVANTAGES
Larger size allows them to
remove more material quickly
Blades can be replaced
Plasterboard dust is collected to
reduce mess
Large size prevents them from fitting in small tool boxes or pockets
Requires two hands to use so no hand available to hold the plasterboard
Some models can’t be used for smoothing edges of cut outs around sockets or plugs as they are too large
