StewMac Compact Z-File Fret Crowning Files
A new twist on the game-changing crowning file
Now our revolutionary Z-Files™ are ergonomically re-designed for better control anywhere on the fretboard—even over the body!
Diamond-coated Z-Files completely changed fret crowning forever: they've made it faster and easier for anyone, pro or beginner, to get perfectly rounded frets in no time at all. Our crew took the design one step further for even better results.
More precise control
We've replaced the handle with a comfortable rubber grip that goes around the entire file. Now pressure is applied from the top, rather than the end, giving you greater control and pinpoint accuracy exactly where you need it. You can feel how the file is cutting better than ever before.
The new design not only fits your hand better, it also makes the entire fretboard accessible. No more worries about the file scratching the top or the handle bumping into the cutaways, it's the perfect size to stay on the fretboard. And it's easier to reach all sides of the fret, no need to flip the instrument halfway through the job.
A new advancement in fret work
After you've leveled the frets for uniform height, the next step is using a crowning file to restore their rounded shape, leaving the thinnest possible line of leveled surface on top. Traditional files can be hard to control, and it's easy to scrape the fret top, creating a buzzing low spot.
Z-Files won't mess up your carefully-leveled fret tops—the abrasives only touch the sides of the frets. The shape keeps you on the fret and the diamond coating works faster and smoother than traditional toothed files.
Compact Z-Files feature:
- Fast cutting 150 or 300-grit diamond abrasive
- Compact shape—no more running into the top or cutaways
- Ergonomic design to apply pressure evenly
- Unique angled cutting edges work the sides of frets, not the tops
- Included rubber grip for improved comfort and control
Two shapes to choose from:
Original Z-File
Two diamond edges speed the work, shaping both sides of the fret at once. Offset angles shape the fret higher on one side while the other side works lower. Use one side of the file, then flip it to the other side. This shape is ideal for worn, low, and wide frets.
Centered Z-File
Two diamond edges in a centered V-shape cut both sides of the fret at the same angle. Simple to use and fast working. This shape is ideal for new and taller frets.
Dimensions:
4" long x 13/16" tall x 3/16" thick (101.6mm x 20.63mm x 4.76mm)
Prefer a file with a traditional handle? Our original Z-Files come in three shapes with a comfortable handle and feel just like a traditional crowning file.
All of our tools are suitable for use on stainless-steel fretwire*. Modern stainless-steel fretwire is known to be harder than the traditional nickel-silver blends, but our own shop experience indicates the wire does not cause premature wear of files or sandpapers.
*Excludes our original Fret Tang Nippers. We recommend our Deluxe Fret Tang Nippers for stainless-steel fretwire.
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