vijl

A vijl is a hand tool used to remove small amounts of material and to smooth or shape surfaces by abrasion. It consists of a hardened steel blade with a pattern of transverse teeth and is used with a handle or directly by hand. Vijlen are employed on a variety of materials, including metal, wood and plastic, and they come in different shapes and sizes to suit specific tasks.

Common shapes include flat, half-round, round, square and triangular vijlen. The flat file is useful for broad flat surfaces, the round file for concave curves, and the half-round file for combined flat and curved work. Some vijlen are double-cut for faster material removal, while single-cut vijlen produce a finer finish. Rasps are a related, coarser family used for rapid stock removal, with a rougher tooth pattern.

Usage and technique require steady, even strokes with controlled pressure. The file should be kept parallel to the workpiece and guided with a firm, smooth motion. Lubrication or light oil may be used on metal to reduce clogging and heat buildup. For accuracy, work with multiple passes and check progress frequently. After use, cleaning with a file card or brush removes metal chips from the teeth, and the tool should be stored dry to prevent corrosion. Replacing worn or bent vijlen is essential to maintain performance.

Vijlen are common in metalworking, woodworking, jewelry making and drafting. They complement other finishing tools and can be paired with a file handle for better grip and control.