Is a metal file sufficient to shape picks?

[Interwoven]

I'm very new to this hobby and I've seen a lot of tutorials using dremals and grinder's to shape picks, is it possible to use just a metal file to shape a jr. hacksaw blade? And if so, are there any recommendations for a file (hopefully inexspensive). I saw a big variety at my home improvement store...I haven't bought one yet. I'd like to make a feeler and a bogota.
-Thanks

[datagram]

Yes, many people use hand files to make picks. Files are good for putting the details into the pick, but not so great for mass material removal. A simple set of flat, round, and triangle files should be enough to get you started.

dg

[ToolyMcgee]

You can make picks effectively by solely relying on files, but 1 file... not really. For 10 bucks you could get a set of 2 chainsaw sharpening files, a large flat file, then spend the rest on varying grits of sand paper. Harbour Freight tools usually stretches money the furthest, and even when it's not on sale they have great prices on sand paper. Every other month a set of cheap needle files usually gets a half price sticker. The smaller files can reduce the amount of paper you use up. It's all in Raimundo's bogota HOW TO:
http://www.lockpicking101.com/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=8205

If your work area is well lit, it will be less likely you make a mistake, or worse... have to start over Have patience. With hand tools sometimes it feels like you aren't getting there fast enough, but if you file like mad you are sure to make a mistake. Good luck

-Tooly

[FrenchKey]

hacksaw blades, it will be very very hard to shape with a file, even a little bit. But you can easily file down wiper inserts and then make some good beginners picks.
Don't forget to add them a comfortable handle, because it will hurt your fingers soon !

[Interwoven]

But, is it possible to shape jr hacksaw blades with a file, if I take care and patience? I'm guessing I could hold the blade with a pair of pliers and run the file across it. Another question...I've noticed many people talking about the sanding process, to finish a pick. Why is this important. Is it more desireable to have a sanded rounded edge of a pick that touches the pins? Why not a flat level surface area that lifts the pins? Thanks for any words of wisdom.

[femurat]

Hi Interwoven,

with care and patience everything is possible, but... it'll take ages!
Start to file and after half an hour look at how much material you have removed. You can estimate how long does the whole filing process take. The decision is up to you.

And about your second question a well sanded pick gives you a good feedback, so sanding it properly worth the effort. Have you already read the MIT guide? It's useful!

Good luck

[raimundo]

sweeper bristles and wiper inserts are tempered, not hardened, you can sand them and they will shape easily, but hacksaw blade is at least partially hardened, I believe that they flame harden the teeth and try to leave the rest flexible.

you can easily shape the sweeper bristles and wiper inserts, but allen wrenchs, files and hacksaws are made of a hard material that will dull other cutting edges, except sand. You can always grind.