Best Metal Flat Files of 2025

Jennifer Fraser Avatar
Jennifer Fraser
Last Updated: 1 Feb 2025

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Metal flat files are a practical and durable storage solution for documents, blueprints, maps, and artwork. These files are made of sturdy metal, ensuring they can withstand the rigours of daily use. They come in different sizes and styles, including horizontal and vertical orientations, and can be stacked to save space. Metal flat files provide a secure and organised way to store important documents and keep them protected from damage, dust, and moisture. They are a great investment for offices, studios, and businesses that deal with large format prints and drawings.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Hi-Spec 17 Piece Metal File Set Cover #TOP 1
Hi-Spec 17 Piece Metal File Set
ftb score rating icon 9.8
KALIM 6'' Flat File for Wood and Metal Cover #TOP 2
KALIM 6'' Flat File for Wood and Metal
ftb score rating icon 9.7
TARIST 8 inch Professional Carbon Steel File Cover #TOP 3
TARIST 8 inch Professional Carbon Steel File
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Metal Flat Files

#TOP 1

Hi-Spec 17 Piece Metal File Set

DT40106R-AE
17 Piece
Hi-Spec 17 Piece Metal File Set Cover
Hi-Spec 17 Pc Metal File Set. Hand & Needle File Set. Large & Fine Micro Steel Files. Flat, Half, Round & Triangle for Crafts, Metal & Wood Work. All in a Big Zipper 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 2

KALIM 6'' Flat File for Wood and Metal

6'' Flat File
KALIM 6'' Flat File for Wood and Metal Cover
KALIM Flat Medium Cut File, Double Cut Teeth, 6'' Length, Made of High Carbon Steel, Hand File Without Handle Suitable for Wood, Metal, Sharpening, etc. (6'' Flat File)

The KALIM Flat File is a versatile tool designed for various materials, measuring 7.5'' in total length with a 6'' file length. Made from high carbon steel, it features a double-cut tooth design that allows you to remove material swiftly and efficiently. The file undergoes advanced processing, ensuring higher strength and improved abrasion resistance. With a maximum width of 0.63'', it is perfect for detailed work in wood, metal, and plastics, making it an ideal choice for both hobbyists and professionals.

What We Like
Versatile for multiple materials
Fast material removal
High strength and durability
Suitable for detailed work
#TOP 3

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 4

LIBRATON 10-Inch High Carbon Steel Flat File

911109
LIBRATON 10-Inch High Carbon Steel Flat File Cover
LIBRATON 10-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 Flat Metal File is crafted from T12 high-carbon steel, ensuring exceptional scraping ability and durability. Its ergonomic rubber handle provides a comfortable grip, allowing you to maintain control while filing, which helps you complete tasks more efficiently. This versatile tool is perfect for shaping, sharpening, and smoothing various materials, including metal and wood. With its practical design and high-quality build, this file is an essential addition to any toolkit.

What We Like
High-quality T12 steel construction
Ergonomic rubber handle
Versatile for multiple materials
Long-lasting durability
#TOP 5

sourcing map Diamond Needle Files with TPU Handle

a22040300ux0275
Gold Tone, Blue
4mm x 160mm
sourcing map Diamond Needle Files with TPU Handle Cover
sourcing map Diamond Needle Files, 4mm x 160mm Titanium Coated Flat Files Hand Tool with TPU Handle for Metal Stone Wood

The sourcing map Needle Files are designed for precision in shaping and polishing various materials, including metal, wood, and stone. With a diamond-plated length of 50mm, these files have sharp, durable teeth for effective use on delicate projects. The titanium coating enhances wear resistance and reduces friction, ensuring a smoother filing experience. The comfortable TPU handle provides a firm grip, making it easier for you to work for extended periods, even in moist conditions.

What We Like
Durable diamond-plated teeth
Corrosion-resistant titanium coating
Comfortable TPU handle
Suitable for delicate projects
Effective on multiple materials
#TOP 6

NEO TOOLS 200mm Flat Metal File with Magnetic Insert

37-022
Plana
NEO TOOLS 200mm Flat Metal File with Magnetic Insert Cover
NEO 37-022 Flat Metal File

The NEO 37-022 Flat File is designed for precision and convenience in your projects. With its flat design, you can easily achieve smooth surfaces and refine edges. The 200mm length provides a comfortable grip, making it suitable for detailed work. The magnetic insert feature allows you to securely hold metal filings, ensuring a tidy workspace. This tool is perfect for both professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts who value efficiency and effectiveness in their tasks.

What We Like
Magnetic insert for easy use
Flat design for smooth surfaces
200mm length for comfortable grip
Ideal for precision work
Suitable for DIY and professionals
#TOP 7

Comfort Handle Flat Metal File for Crafts

Comfort Handle Flat Metal File for Crafts Cover
Flat Metal File Sharp Grinding Flat File Comfort Handle Flat Mill File for Wood and Metal Carving Craftsman

The PULAITEJ Flat Metal File features an ergonomic anti-slip handle, ensuring a comfortable grip and improved control while you work. This design reduces fatigue, allowing you to focus on accuracy for a more polished finish. The file’s special tooth shape enhances cutting ability, making your tasks quicker and more efficient. Crafted from high-quality carbon steel, it boasts a hardness of HRC60°, providing durability and longevity. This means you can tackle a variety of materials with ease, from wood to ceramics.

What We Like
Ergonomic anti-slip handle
Sharp and efficient cutting
High durability and hardness
Wide range of applications
#TOP 8

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 9

Marksman 2PC Diamond File Set - Flat & Tapered

56006c
Marksman 2PC Diamond File Set - Flat & Tapered Cover
2PC DIAMOND FILE SET NEEDLE HALF ROUND TAPERED & FLAT STONE METAL GLASS 120MM

The Marksman Diamond File Set is a versatile tool for various crafting and DIY tasks. This set includes a half-round tapered file and a flat file, providing you with options for different filing needs. The diamond-coated surfaces ensure efficient material removal, making your projects smoother and quicker. Each file measures 120mm, allowing for precise control in tight spaces. With this set, you can easily shape and finish metal, glass, and stone, making it a convenient addition to your toolkit.

What We Like
Versatile for multiple materials
Efficient diamond-coated surfaces
Compact 120mm size
Includes tapered and flat designs
Ideal for crafting and DIY
#TOP 10

Preciva 20CM Flat/Half Round/Round Files

FRRBHV
Preciva 20CM Flat/Half Round/Round Files Cover
Metal File, 20CM Preciva Flat/Half Round/Round Files, Premium T12 Carbon Steel& 45# Steel, Suits Metal, Wood etc

The Preciva Metal and Wood Files set features robust construction with different strength materials, making them ideal for targeted grinding of both metal and wood. The flat and round files are crafted from hard T12 alloy steel, perfect for edge finishing and curved work. The half round file, made from 45# steel, is designed for trimming holes and curves in wood or plastics. An ergonomically designed rubber handle ensures comfort and control, allowing you to work efficiently without straining your hands.

What We Like
Durable forged materials
Ergonomic rubber handle
Suitable for metal and wood
Effective for detailed work
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a steel flat file?

The Facil Steel Flat File is a document storage cabinet for art, engineering and other large documents. Units can be stacked up to two high on closed base and one high on high base. The all steel construction provides long lasting operation.

2. What is a flat file tool used for?

Any type of hand file or flat file can be used to put a bevel on the edge of a piece of metal. They can also be used to round corners and create convex surfaces. Due to their safe edge, smooth, single cut hand files can also be used to file fingernails.

3. What does a flat file look like?

A flat file features a table with a single record per line. The different columns in a record use a tab or comma to delimit the fields. The flat file database does not have multiple tables, unlike in a relational database.

4. What is flat file storage?

A flat file is a collection of data stored in a two-dimensional database in which similar yet discrete strings of information are stored as records in a table. The columns of the table represent one dimension of the database, while each row is a separate record.

Editor's Notes

During our metal flat file research, we found 101 metal flat file products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 20,422 customer reviews through our big data system to write the metal flat files list. We found that most customers choose metal flat files with an average price of £6.27.

The metal flat files are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of metal flat files, including Hi-Spec, KALIM, TARIST, LIBRATON, sourcing map. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 813 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

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.