pipen file

[spanky2313]

Is this a must for Impressioning. Just looking for some feed back

[KokomoLock]

Not a MUST but makes things a lot easier. I also use a round file sometimes. If you get a Pippin file make sure it is a #4 cut. I say get a cheaper round file first and see how things go, if you stick with it and start doing a lot of locks, then invest in a pippin file.

[oldlock]

I do a lot of impressioning. The best file I have found is a Vallorbe rat tail file. Use the 8" file, no 4 cut.

[nhoj_yelbom]

Not a MUST but makes things a lot easier. I also use a round file sometimes. If you get a Pippin file make sure it is a #4 cut. I say get a cheaper round file first and see how things go, if you stick with it and start doing a lot of locks, then invest in a pippin file.

i agree 100%, i had a 0 cut and i could not use it without it grabbing too much. of course now i cant find the damn thing, i have misplaced/lost it somehow.....

[spanky2313]

I bought a 6 inch. 4 cut pipen file. I like it but 75 dollars was a lot of money for a file. Thanks

[mdc5150]

Hawleylocksupply.com has pippens for a decent price.

Lockpicks.com has the round files for a decent price.

[magician59]

I use BOTH the rattail file and the Pippin. It really depends on the type of key I'm impressioning. I usually start my cuts with the rattail file, and shape the cuts using the Pippin, as they get deeper.

[Josh66]

What is a "decent" price for these? I saw some on Amazon, and I was a little shocked at how expensive they are.

I'm an aircraft mechanic - I have a lot of expensive tools, and a lot of files. I have never even heard of a file that cost this much.

If using two files instead of one means I save $40 ... I think I'll keep my $40.

[Riyame]

With files you really get what you pay for.

Try this guy for some of the better ones. You might pay a bit more but they will cut better, cut smoother and last longer. http://www.keypicking.com/viewtopic.php?f=49&t=6723

[Russ]

I have had my 8" Pippin file for 10 out of the 12 years and its still going strong
the first one I got lasted 2 years then I dropped it and stepped on it broke it in half
just don't use them on hard metal and they will last a long time

[Kezo]

I have had my 8" Pippin file for 10 out of the 12 years and its still going strong
the first one I got lasted 2 years then I dropped it and stepped on it broke it in half
just don't use them on hard metal and they will last a long time

10 years? Wow. How do you keep these files clean so it will last that long? I have a grobet round file that kind of feels clogged up with brass.

[MBI]

I have had my 8" Pippin file for 10 out of the 12 years and its still going strong
the first one I got lasted 2 years then I dropped it and stepped on it broke it in half
just don't use them on hard metal and they will last a long time

10 years? Wow. How do you keep these files clean so it will last that long? I have a grobet round file that kind of feels clogged up with brass.

Always clean your good files with a file card after use to dislodge bits of metal. I'll also frequently flush them with oil after use too, then lean them up on their tip to drain on top of a folded paper towel. It further cleans them, and prevents rust.

[Josh66]

Most of my files (I don't have a pippin file, currently) are at least 10 years old as well.

All I really have to say about files is 'they don't make them like they used to'. My best are made in England. Still sharp after years of abuse - that's some good steel there.

[Don]

What is a "decent" price for these? I saw some on Amazon, and I was a little shocked at how expensive they are.

I'm an aircraft mechanic - I have a lot of expensive tools, and a lot of files. I have never even heard of a file that cost this much.

If using two files instead of one means I save $40 ... I think I'll keep my $40.

I would suggest you beg or borrow 1 .... you will find the difference to be like riding an old bicycle with a flat tire and bent wheel or riding in the back of a limousine with a fully stocked bar and 2 friendly young ladies.

[MBI]

I would suggest you beg or borrow 1 .... you will find the difference to be like riding an old bicycle with a flat tire and bent wheel or riding in the back of a limousine with a fully stocked bar and 2 friendly young ladies.

I'm glad I wasn't drinking milk when I read that. It would have come out my nose.