It is an easy matter to file the ends of round rods if a piece wood with a notch cut in the top is placed in the vise, as shown in the cut, and the rod revolved toward you as the file is run over it. The file will make a steady, smooth cut, and will not chatter if the notch is of the right depth. This simple trick seems to be but little known. Usually the mechanic tries to rest the rod he is filing between the partly open jaws of the vise, but this makes a very unsatisfactory, chattering support, which is quite sure to mar the work.

Fig. 74 - How to file round work.