As I mention in my video, this file is comfortable to work with in part because of the handle, but also because it's smaller than some files and thus quite agile. You can of course use the sides of the file, but I only do that when I want to cut a square notch in something. 99% of the time, I'm using the flat face of this file -- and it is very "sharp" meaning it aggressively files on other metals.
I've used Stanley tools for over two decades now, and appreciate the quality of their products. This file is amazingly affordable, but it's not low quality like some I've made the mistake of falling for at the local discount tool store.
It's a good file at a good price, and I expect to be using it for many years to come. A good tool should last a person's lifetime, and this file is certainly in that category.
A NOTE ON SHARPENING: I tend to use this file as a first pass in sharpening jobs only when the blade I'm sharpening has burs or dings. You can use a grind stone for this, but a file is a bit more precise in my experience. Mower blades can be sharpened with a file and nothing else. Knives tend to need a stone just to really hone that blade.
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This product was NOT given to me as part of any promotion. I bought it after doing some comparison shopping and this review is entirely the result of my own opinions and use of the product.