Martin 1163F Half Round Body File, 14" Steel Shell
- The Martin 1163F (part number 1163F) is a specialized auto-body file designed for metal shaping and refinishing. It features a half round shell with vixen-milled curved teeth, plain blade, concave contour suitable for shallow concave work, and measures 14 inches overall.
- Features:
- Half round shell, 8-tooth blade delivers balanced material removal while allowing precision on curved surfaces
- Vixen milled curved tooth profile helps reduce clogging and improves cutting through body panels
- Plain blade style gives smooth filing finish appropriate for final shaping before filler or polish
- 14-inch overall length gives good reach, especially useful for larger panels or door crowns
- Steel construction for durability and consistent stiffness during use
- Specifications:
- Weight: 0.89 lbs.
- Plain blade
- Half round shell, 8 tooth
- Concave for shallow concave work
- 14 Inch long
- Storage Dimension Height: 0.440 in.
- Storage Dimension Width: 1.440 in.
- Storage Dimension Length: 14.310 in.
- UPC: 697950141893
- Made in USA
- The Martin 1163F body file can also be referred to as half round body file, straight shell body file, 14-inch auto body file, curved tooth body file, and steel body shaping file.
Martin’s 1163F body file is engineered for professional auto-body and metal finishing work. With its half round shell, curved tooth design, and substantial length it enables precise contour shaping and smoothing of steel body panels to prepare for welding, straightening or finishing.
Q: What does “half round shell” mean and why choose it over flat files?
A: A half round shell has a curved (convex/concave) profile on one side and flat on the other, which allows filing on both flat surfaces and curved seams or panels. Ideal for shallow concave work without distorting panel shape. (This is what the 1163F offers.)
Q: What is a vixen-milled, curved tooth blade, and what benefit does it give?
A: Vixen milling creates a curved or wavy tooth pattern that helps with cutting through metal more smoothly, reducing resistance and clogging. It improves control and finishing when working on body panels.
Q: Is this file suitable for both steel & aluminum body panels?
A: It is designed for steel. If you use it on aluminum, expect faster wear and possibly galling. For aluminum projects, a file made specifically for softer metals is usually better.
