Nicholson 16507NN Warding File 4 Inches Bastard Cut

Product Description

The NICHOLSON 16507NN is an American-pattern warding file designed for precision filing work on keys, slots, and narrow-clearance applications. At 4 inches in cut length, it features a double cut bastard tooth pattern that removes material efficiently while leaving a surface finish suitable for fitting and shaping work. The file measures 15/32 inches wide and 3/64 inches thick, giving it the slim, flat profile that warding files are specified for. It is tang-style, requiring a separate handle, and is not flexible. Locksmiths, machinists, and tool-and-die tradespeople reach for this file when working in tight keyways and narrow slots where wider files cannot fit.

This file is well-suited to key fitting, locksmithing, and light metalworking tasks where a short, narrow file is needed to access confined geometry. The 4-inch length makes it easy to control in close quarters. The bastard cut provides an intermediate aggressiveness — faster than a second cut, finer than a coarse cut — making it appropriate for initial shaping followed by inspection before finish filing. It is sold individually and is a direct bench-stock item for shops that maintain a range of American-pattern hand files.

Key Features

• Warding file profile: slim and flat at 15/32 inches wide and 3/64 inches thick for narrow-slot access
• Double cut bastard tooth pattern for efficient stock removal with moderate surface finish
• 4-inch cut length for precise control in confined or close-quarters filing
• Tang style — accepts standard file handles sold separately
• American-pattern construction suited to key fitting and slot work
• Non-flexible body for predictable cutting action

Compatibility

Designed for use in key filing, locksmithing, and general metalworking applications requiring a short warding file with a bastard cut double cut tooth pattern. Fits standard tang-style file handles.

Installation Notes

Always seat the tang fully into a properly sized file handle before use — operating a tang file without a handle presents a puncture hazard. Secure the workpiece in a vise when possible to maintain control and consistent stroke direction. Files cut on the forward stroke only; lifting on the return stroke extends tooth life. Warding files are not designed for use on hardened steel above the file's own hardness rating.