What is a vixen file?

29th February 2020


	What is a vixen file?


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			Vixen files are used most often to file aluminium, particularly car bodywork, as well as other soft metals such as brass, bronze and white metal.

			However, their rapid removal rate and clog resistance lends them well to filing other soft materials such as wood and plastic.

			What are the characteristics of vixen files?
			Cross section and profile Vixen files can be flat or half round, although half round vixen files tend to be C-shaped. They tend to be blunt.

			Cut Vixen files, also known as dreadnought files, have curved teeth.

			This undercut, curved tooth configuration makes the file clog resistant, as any chips and debris are forced along the gaps between the teeth and out of the side of the file by the movement of the stroke.

			The apex of the curve on the teeth cuts aggressively, allowing for rapid removal of material.

			Size Vixen files are usually available in lengths from 200mm (8 inches) to 350mm (14 inches).

			Swiss or American? The coarseness of vixen files is measured in teeth per inch, but teeth are only counted if they lie within the inch that is being measured in their entirety. They can also use the American pattern system.

			What is a bodifile?
			A bodifile is a curved vixen file designed specifically for use on car bodies.

			Its tang is cranked (bent to one side), which allows a DIYer to file a flat or gently curved surface without their hand getting in the way.