Files are easy to store. There are just two things to remember that will help to keep your files in top condition for a long time.
Put your files away carefully
As tempting as it is to sling your tools into a drawer or storage bin once you’ve finished using them, this can cause teeth to break off, or your file to snap.
This is because the people who forged your file designed it so that it would be as resistant as possible to damage through wear or being bent by using a high amount of carbon during the alloying process.
Weakness to sudden shocks is a side effect of this process. Other elements can help to compensate for this, but they can’t always mitigate it completely.
Keep your files separate
Files are abrasive tools that have been designed to wear through other substances during use, including other metals.
When they come into contact with other files, however, they are contacting a material that has equal hardness.
This means that both files have the potential to cause damage to one another.
The best way to keep this from happening is to hang your files up on a rack after use. Some file handles have a built in hanging hole which makes this particularly easy.
If you can’t hang up your files, it’s better to use dividers to keep them apart in your drawer or toolbox rather than just keeping them loose.
Keep away from moisture
Files should always be stored in a dry place. They can rust easily and, once they have, they are no longer usable.
