Blue Point Checking File

[BRad704]

I was going through some of my grandfather's old tools (he passed in 1999), and found this. I'm pretty sure it is an old checkering file. I haven't tried to use it yet, but it's definitely got every size you could need.

 

[CTaylorJr]

Looks like a thread chaser file to me. Not sure how well it would work, but only one way to find out, get some steel and see what it does.

Charlie

 

[BRad704]

Well... I had never even heard of those before. I'm still wondering if I could use this to line up my jimping, and then take it to depth with a needle file...

 

[Steven Janik]

Brad,
Try it on a piece of wood before you hit any steel with it just to be safe.

Steve

 

[BRad704]

Yessir, will do...

 

[James Terrio]

Yeah, it's for cleaning threads. They're usually pretty soft, be gentle with it. I have used one just to lay out jimping like you described.

 

[Jeff Conti]

Definitely a file to chase threads that were damaged. Might try mild steel to practice for jimping.

 

[BRad704]

Ok, I might just have to get a real checkering file, but I'll try this first on something soft. Maybe the fresh 1095 I got from Aldo.

 

[rob45]

Brad,

Definitely a thread-restoring file, and a metric one at that.
They are used on external threads.
Very popular with assemblers, especially mechanics. Plumbers usually have one for pipe threads in their box as well.

Typical applications:
1. Cleaning the threads. Often, a previously-assembled bolt will have the threads clogged up with gunk like tape, gasket sealant, etc. Sometimes the fasteners have corrosion (rust) buildup in the threads, too.
Cleaning the threads allows not only easier reassembly, but more importantly, proper torque readings.
2. Restoring buggered threads. Sometimes the threads get mangled from banging into other pieces, or simply from being scooted around on a hard concrete floor (or gravel driveway!).
Provided you still have good thread to overlap, the file can be used to bring the distorted portion of the thread back into proper shape.


If I remember correctly, Blue Point is a somewhat less expensive part of the Snap-On tools line. Should be a very high-quality tool.

Can you use one for jimping, etc.? Wouldn't be the first time a tool was used for a task other than original intentions.
The thread file may get the job done, but an actual checkering file will probably be better for this task, albeit at higher $$.
The checkering file will not only be more precisely made overall, but will have an actual tang, allowing more precision and easier application.

Try it out and see if it works for your application. If it does, great, you saved some money.

 

[murphda2]

Brad, remember the Shawn Ellis chopper I have that you admired and said you would like to try building a similar handle with the cut lines? This might be just what you need for cutting the lines into wood. I'd save it for softer applications.

 

[James Terrio]

If I remember correctly, Blue Point is a somewhat less expensive part of the Snap-On tools line. Should be a very high-quality tool.

That's true.

 

[BRad704]

I certainly remember it... And plan on trying it out someday soon.