Apex 05968N Flat Hand File 10 Inch Bastard Double Cut

Product Description

The APEX 05968N is a flat hand file designed for general-purpose metal removal and finishing in trade and industrial settings. It features a bastard cut rating, which places it in the mid-range of coarseness — coarser than second cut, finer than rough — making it a practical choice for initial shaping and stock removal on steel, iron, and similar metals. The double-cut pattern uses two intersecting rows of teeth to remove material faster than a single-cut file. One safe edge is ground smooth, allowing the tech to file into a corner or notch without damaging an adjacent surface. The file body measures 10 inches in length with an overall length of 12.25 inches including the tang, a width of 0.96 inches, and a thickness of 0.19 inches.

This file is suited for use by HVAC technicians, plumbers, pipefitters, electricians, and general maintenance tradespeople. It handles deburring cut pipe ends, dressing bolt threads, cleaning up weld seams, fitting sheet metal edges, and removing corrosion or scale from hardware. The flat profile with one safe edge makes it especially useful in tight joints or L-shaped cuts where protecting a finished face matters. Hard stamped markings on the file body keep identification legible through heavy shop use.

Key Features

• Bastard cut for efficient mid-coarseness stock removal on ferrous metals
• Double-cut tooth pattern accelerates material removal compared to single-cut files
• One safe edge protects adjacent surfaces when filing into corners or stepped cuts
• Flat profile with 0.96-inch width provides a stable filing surface
• Hard stamped markings resist wear and remain readable in field conditions
• Steel construction for durability under repeated heavy use

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose flat hand file suitable for use on steel, cast iron, and similar ferrous materials across HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical trade applications.

Installation Notes

Hand files are used by skilled tradespeople and require no power source, but proper handle fitment over the tang is essential before use to prevent hand injury. Secure the workpiece in a vise before filing to maintain control and consistent stroke direction. Files should be used with forward-stroke pressure only and lifted on the return stroke to preserve tooth life. Replace files showing visible tooth wear or chipping rather than applying additional pressure.

Technical Specifications

• File Shape: Flat
• File Cut: Bastard
• Cut Type: Double Cut
• Edge Type: 1 Safe Edge
• File Length: 10 inches
• Overall Length: 12.25 inches
• File Width: 0.96 inches
• File Thickness: 0.19 inches
• Marking Style: Hard Stamped
• Material: Steel
• Weight: 0.5 pounds
• Unit of Measure: Each

Standard Information

• Brand: APEX
• Manufacturer Part Number: 05968N