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crundes
30-01-2014, 09:27 AM
Hey guys,

I'm looking to buy a fret file and after a bit of searching and advice from forumers I think I'll look into getting a diamond fret file. Was just wondering what size I need to get for the fret wire on an STA - 1. The one I"m looking at on the StewMac site offers files for narrow, medium and wide fretwire, was just wondering which would be most suitable.

Here's the link to the file: http://www.stewmac.com/shop/Tools/Special_tools_for_Fretting/Dual-grit_Diamond_Fret_File.html

This one also looks really good from an ebay seller, Stew mac has a single grit version for a higher price so I thought this looks like a good deal I believe it's the same brand that Gavin1393 uses?.. http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Diamond-Fret-Crowning-File-DUAL-GRIT-150-300-/151220777707?pt=AU_Instrument_Accessories&hash=item233575f2eb&_uhb=1

Any suggestions would be most welcome :-)
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/l4880-Dual-grit_Diamond_Fret_File_sm.jpg
http://www.pitbullguitars.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/s0z70-fretfile.JPG

Gavin1393
30-01-2014, 09:41 AM
The bottom one in 150 and 300 grit is the one I use. It is shaped so that you dont damage the fretboard if you slip off the fret while recrowning it. They are expensive files, but well worth the investment as they make it easier to complete the task without giving you aching hands! Plus, the one side is for wider frets and the other side is for narrower frets!

crundes
30-01-2014, 10:10 AM
Cheers Gav, I thought this (the bottom one) must be the one you were suggesting I get. This particular one is 150 grit on one side and 300 on the other so I think the width is the same on both sides, it does say that it is suitable for narrow to medium fret wire, so I assume it should be fine. Only $95 for 2 grits seems pretty good to me apposed to the $200ish for 2 separate files from stewmac. The top one got pretty good reviews too and is a bit cheaper but your point about the shape being safer for the fretboard makes me think I'll go with the bottom one.

Gavin1393
30-01-2014, 11:20 AM
I might still go the individual route and get one of each grit. If you ever want to do a bass guitar the diamond file is going to be fretty useless! Pun intended!!

crundes
31-01-2014, 12:08 PM
haha, fair enough. I don't think I have the cash for 2 at the moment though and I can't see myself doing a bass build in the near future, I have enough trouble learning guitar without confusing things with a bass! Thanks for the advice though Gav :)