Nicholson 16663NN Warding File 6 in Double Cut Bastard

Product Description

The NICHOLSON 16663NN is a 6-inch American-pattern warding file designed for precision key filing and slot work. It features a double-cut, bastard-coarseness tooth pattern that removes material efficiently while still allowing controlled finishing passes. The file measures 39/64 inches wide and 5/64 inches thick, giving it the narrow, flat profile required to work within tight warding cuts on key blanks and lock components. A tang end is included for use with a standard file handle. Machinists, locksmiths, and maintenance technicians are the primary users of this tool.

This file is suited for applications where a thin, flat file must fit into shallow grooves or restricted clearances. The warding pattern and narrow width make it the standard choice for fitting key warding cuts, cleaning up slots in hardware, and light deburring in confined areas. At 6 inches in cutting length, it is manageable for bench work and hand filing tasks. The bastard cut is appropriate for general stock removal on steel and similar ferrous metals where a fine-cut file would be too slow and a coarser file would remove too much material.

Key Features

• 6-inch cutting length suits bench filing and hand work on key blanks and hardware
• Double-cut, bastard tooth pattern balances stock removal with surface control
• Narrow warding profile at 39/64 inches wide fits tight grooves and warding slots
• 5/64-inch thickness provides the slim cross-section needed for restricted clearances
• Tang end accepts a standard file handle for secure grip during use
• Non-flexible body maintains consistent cutting geometry throughout the stroke

Compatibility

Designed for use in key filing, warding-cut work, and general slot finishing on ferrous metals where a narrow, double-cut bastard file is the appropriate tool type.

Installation Notes

Always seat a properly sized handle onto the tang before use to prevent hand injury from the exposed tang point. Secure the workpiece in a bench vise before filing. Keep the file clean of filings with a file card to maintain cutting efficiency and prevent pinning. Files are hardened and brittle — do not use them as pry tools or strike them against hard surfaces.