DDK - Die Deutschen Klassiker

At a village fete recently I picked up some decent looking files. Just had an enjoyable time cutting them into my shadow foam



So my question is the same as the title - what’s the best way of cleaning them? I’ve got some surface rust on some of them.

Evapo-rust? Sandblasting?

Soak the files in white vinegar for 1 or 2 days.
Then soak them in baking soda. It will neutralize the acidity of the white vinegar.
Evaporust and electrolysis experiences are marginal. Rust off, yes... but the vinegar eats at the iron and reveals new material, so you actually get a reasonably sharp file again.

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I'm sure there are more 'sophisticated' methods but I always use a wire brush.

I think there are brushes specifically sold for cleaning files (typically with short wires) but I've just used a std one ...

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Did this as an apprentice in the aluminium industry, simple wire brush, the newer the better and use it regularly. (and the files!)

There is a proper brush for this called a file card, I think they are still available.

Thanks guys

£5.59 free post on eBay!

Ordered one yesterday

middlefour1 wrote: ↑Sat Jul 12, 2025 2:45 pm There is a proper brush for this called a file card, I think they are still available.

Correct tool for the job.