What are the basic parts of a file handle?

29th February 2020


	What are the parts of a file handle?


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			File handle base
			The base of the handle contains the hole into which the tang of your file should be inserted.

			How to attach a handle to a file Most file handles that are available are push fit, which means that attaching them to your file is as simple as just pushing the tang into the hole in the handle.

			These handles work by friction, meaning that once they have been wedged in, pressure from the handle itself will hold the tang firmly in place.

			In some cases, you will come across screw fit files, which have hardened teeth inside the hole in the base that will score a spiral groove into the soft metal of the tang for added grip.

			Some plastic handles are designed to clip onto the heel of the file as well as sliding over the tang. You can tell if your handle is designed to do this by checking to see if there are bracket-like fittings at the base, as shown in the picture to the left.

			File handle ferrule
			The ferrule is the metal strip around the bottom of a wooden handle.

			This strip is made of steel that is plated with zinc to prevent corrosion.

			This metal band prevents the wood from cracking at the base. Putting pressure on the handle could otherwise result in the tang trying to tear through it!

			File handle hanging hole
			Some plastic handles are moulded with hanging holes, so they can easily be stored on a rack.

			This helps to protect the files from damage as a result of rattling around in a tool drawer.

			File handle rubber grip
			Plastic handles often include rubber sections. In some cases, the plastic that the handle is made of is rubberised.

			This improves grip on the file handle and also makes it more comfortable to use.