Best Flat Files of 2026

Jennifer Fraser Avatar
Jennifer Fraser
Last Updated: 5 Feb 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Flat files are essential tools for anyone who needs to organise and store paper documents. These files are designed to hold large quantities of paper in a flat, horizontal position, which makes them ideal for storing drawings, blueprints, and other large-format documents. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, from simple cardboard folders to heavy-duty steel cabinets, and can be used in a wide range of settings, from offices and archives to art studios and drafting rooms. Flat files are an excellent investment for anyone who needs to keep paper documents organised, secure, and easily accessible.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Hilka 8-Inch Flat File with Soft Grip Cover #TOP 1
Hilka 8-Inch Flat File with Soft Grip
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Faithfull Engineers File 150mm Second Cut Cover #TOP 2
Faithfull Engineers File 150mm Second Cut
ftb score rating icon 9.7
LIBRATON 8-Inch High Carbon Steel Flat Metal File Cover #TOP 3
LIBRATON 8-Inch High Carbon Steel Flat Metal File
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Flat Files

#TOP 1

Hilka 8-Inch Flat File with Soft Grip

69668408
Hilka 8-Inch Flat File with Soft Grip Cover
8" FLAT FILE PC

The Hilka Flat File is designed with user comfort in mind, featuring a two-component soft grip handle that allows for a secure and comfortable hold during use. It is produced to British standards, ensuring you receive a quality tool that meets rigorous safety and performance criteria. The product comes in blister packaging, making it easy to store and display. With dimensions of 2.9 cm in width, 35.5 cm in height, and 6.5 cm in depth, this flat file is compact yet functional, perfect for a variety of tasks.

What We Like
Comfortable soft grip handle
Produced to British standards
Compact and easy to store
Blister packaging for protection
#TOP 2

Faithfull Engineers File 150mm Second Cut

FIHSC6
Bunt
150mm x 16mm
Faithfull Engineers File 150mm Second Cut Cover
Faithfull FAIFIHSC6 Engineers File Flat Second Cut 150mm (6in)

The Faithfull Engineers File offers a tapered blade with a half round profile, making it ideal for various filing tasks. Its double cut design allows for efficient material removal, saving you time when working on projects. The comfortable soft-grip handle ensures ease of use, reducing hand fatigue during extended periods of work. Starting with a coarser file followed by this medium file will help you achieve a finer finish, enhancing the quality of your work.

What We Like
Efficient material removal
Tapered blade for versatility
Comfortable soft-grip handle
Ideal for fine finishes

LIBRATON 8-Inch High Carbon Steel Flat Metal File

911108
LIBRATON 8-Inch High Carbon Steel Flat Metal File Cover
LIBRATON 8-Inch Flat Metal File, Metal File Tool, High Carbon Steel File with Ergonomic Handle, Hand File for Metal, Metalworking, Wood, Plastic, Flat File for Refining, Shaping and Scraping

The LIBRATON Metal File is crafted from T12 high-carbon steel, ensuring strong scraping ability and durability for long-term use. Its fine teeth are tough and effective, making it ideal for refining and shaping various materials. The ergonomic rubber handle offers a comfortable grip, giving you better control and helping you work faster and more precisely. With its flat shape and 8-inch file length, it is versatile for smoothing, sharpening, and deburring metals, wood, plastic, and other materials, making it a handy tool for many projects.

What We Like
Durable high-carbon steel
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Versatile for multiple materials
Effective fine teeth design
Compact and practical size
#TOP 4

TARIST 8 inch Professional Carbon Steel File

TARIST
HT90801
8 inch
TARIST 8 inch Professional Carbon Steel File Cover
TARIST 8 inch Flat Metal File, Professional Carbon Steel File, Tool Sharpener for Professionals and DIY

The TARIST Flat Metal File is crafted from premium T12 carbon steel, ensuring a robust body hardness of 62 to 66 HRC. This high-quality material means you can rely on it for effective filing, de-burring, and shaping of a variety of materials, including metal, wood, and plastics. The deeply quenched and coated teeth enhance durability, making it an ideal tool for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. To maintain its surface finish, a light application of machine oil is recommended, ensuring it stays in top shape for your projects.

What We Like
Durable carbon steel material
Versatile for multiple materials
High hardness for effective use
Easy maintenance with machine oil
#TOP 5

Spear & Jackson SJ2408 Farmers' File for Tools

SJ2408
Grey
Spear & Jackson SJ2408 Farmers' File for Tools Cover
Spear & Jackson SJ2408 Farmers' File

The Spear & Jackson Farmers' File is expertly designed for sharpening and maintaining a variety of agricultural bladed machinery and hand tools, such as scythes, bill hooks, and machetes. Measuring 200mm (8 inches), it is made from hardened and tempered steel for durability. With first/rough cut teeth on one side and second/finer cut teeth on the other, you can efficiently achieve both coarse and fine sharpening, ensuring your tools are always in top condition for optimal performance.

What We Like
Durable hardened steel construction
Dual-sided for versatile sharpening
Ideal for various agricultural tools
Convenient 200mm size
#TOP 6

Rolson 24705 2 Piece 150mm File Set

24705
Black
2 Pieces
Rolson 24705 2 Piece 150mm File Set Cover
Rolson 24705 2 pc 150 mm File Set

The Rolson 24705 File Set includes two 150mm files made from durable T12 Steel, ensuring long-lasting performance for your metalwork projects. The rubber cushion grips provide comfort and control, allowing you to work efficiently without straining your hands. This set features both flat and half-round files, giving you versatility for various tasks. Whether you are smoothing edges or shaping surfaces, this file set is suitable for most metalwork, making it an essential addition to your toolkit.

What We Like
Durable T12 Steel construction
Comfortable rubber grips
Includes flat and half-round files
Versatile for various metalwork
#TOP 7

Draper Redline 80541 200 mm Flat File

80541
Multi-coloured
Draper Redline 80541 200 mm Flat File Cover
Draper Redline 80541 200 mm Second Cut Flat File

The Draper 80541 Flat File features high carbon steel, ensuring durability and strength for your filing needs. Its hardened and tempered design allows for efficient material removal, making it ideal for both metal and wood projects. The moulded plastic handle provides a comfortable grip, enabling you to work for extended periods without discomfort. This combination of features makes the Draper 80541 Flat File a reliable tool for achieving smooth finishes and precise shapes in your work.

What We Like
Durable high carbon steel
Comfortable moulded plastic handle
Hardened for efficient filing
Versatile for metal and wood
#TOP 8

Hi-Spec 17 Piece Metal File Set

DT40106R-MX
17 Piece
Hi-Spec 17 Piece Metal File Set Cover
Hi-Spec 17 Pc Metal File Set – Hand & Needle Files, Large & Fine Micro Steel, Flat, Half, Round & Triangle for Crafts, Metal & Wood Work, All in a Large Zipper Storage Case

The Hi-Spec Metal File Set offers a comprehensive solution for shaping, trimming, and smoothing metal, wood, and plastics. With four full-length files, you can tackle general-purpose filing tasks effectively, while the twelve needle files are perfect for intricate detailing. The high-carbon steel materials ensure durability and resistance to wear, allowing you to work confidently on various projects. Additionally, the included accessories, such as work gloves and sanding paper, provide added convenience for achieving a polished finish.

What We Like
Complete set for various tasks
Durable high-carbon steel files
Includes useful accessories
Convenient zipper case storage
Ideal for detailed work
#TOP 9

AojSup 17Pcs Professional Metal File Set

AojSup
NECALON
17Pcs
AojSup 17Pcs Professional Metal File Set Cover
AojSup 17Pcs Metal File Set, Professional Files Tools, Premium Metal Files with Suitcase, 4X Large Files - Flat/Triangle/Half-Round/Round File&12x Needle Files, Perfect for Wood, Metal&DIY Project

The AojSup Metal File Set is a comprehensive collection perfect for your DIY projects. It features four large files made from durable T12 premium alloy steel, ideal for shaping various materials like wood and metal. The ergonomic rubber handle ensures comfort and reduces fatigue during use, allowing you to work longer without discomfort. With a portable carrying case, you can easily store and transport your tools, keeping everything organised and secure for any job, whether at home or in the workshop.

What We Like
Durable premium alloy steel
Ergonomic non-slip handle
Portable and organised storage
Wide range of applications
Includes essential tool types
#TOP 10

Faithfull Engineers File Flat Second Cut 250mm

FAIFIHSC10
Faithfull Engineers File Flat Second Cut 250mm Cover
Faithfull FAIFIHSC10 Engineers File Flat Second Cut 250mm (10in)

The Faithfull Engineers File is designed with slightly tapered blades and a half round profile, making it ideal for precision work. The double cut feature allows for efficient material removal, while the comfortable soft-grip handle ensures you can work for longer without discomfort. You can start with the coarser Bastard cut for quick removal and then switch to this medium Second cut file for a finer finish, perfect for achieving a smooth surface on your projects.

What We Like
Comfortable soft-grip handle
Double cut for efficiency
Slightly tapered blade design
Ideal for precision work
Versatile for different finishes
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is flat file example?

Examples of flat files include /etc/passwd and /etc/group on Unix-like operating systems. Another example of a flat file is a name-and-address list with the fields Name, Address, and Phone Number. A list of names, addresses, and phone numbers written by hand on a sheet of paper is a flat-file database.

2. Is a CSV a flat file?

There are two common types of flat files: CSV (comma separated values) and delimited files. Both are file formats that represent relational data in a text file.

3. What is a flat file and how is it used?

A flat file consists of a single table of data. It allows the user to specify data attributes, such as columns and data types table by table, and stores those attributes separate from applications. This type of file is commonly used to import data in data warehousing projects.

4. Is Excel a flat file?

A Flat File Database – A simple table, consisting of categories (or fields) in columnar format and records entered in rows. “Databases” created in spreadsheet applications (like Microsoft Excel) are flat file databases.

Editor's Notes

During our flat file research, we found 224 flat file products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 29,003 customer reviews through our big data system to write the flat files list. We found that most customers choose flat files with an average price of £7.24.

The flat files are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of flat files, including Hilka, Faithfull, LIBRATON, TARIST, Spear & Jackson.

Written by
Jennifer Fraser Avatar

Jennifer Fraser is a licensed contractor specializing in sales, maintenance, and kitchen, bathroom, and home appliances, tools, and utilities. She owns a store in Leeds where you can get any home and tool appliance. Jenny has a degree in literature, but she combines her knowledge and experience with her degree to publish DIY articles on solving home appliances issues to keep up the family enterprise.