StewMac Nut Slotting File .032" (0.81mm) vs Hosco Nut File 0.032" Double Edge
Both are 0.032" nut slotting files for cutting string slots in guitar nuts. The StewMac file is the better buy for anyone who slots nuts regularly: it has a 4-inch cutting edge, a hardened steel handle, and comes in a 19-piece set if you want every gauge. The Hosco is a shorter double-edge file that also handles Tune-o-matic saddles. No current prices were provided for either file, so compare store prices on this page before buying.
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StewMac Nut Slotting File .032" (0.81mm)
Choose the StewMac .032" file if you want a long 4-inch cutting edge, a durable hardened steel handle, and the option to buy a full 19-piece set.
- 4-inch cutting edge gives long, even strokes
- Hardened steel handle holds up to repeated use
- Available as a single file or a full 19-piece set
- Round-bottomed slot shape suits standard nut work
- Single cutting edge, so no second gauge on the same tool
- No stated saddle-slotting use
- Costs more per file than a bare mini file
What separates them
| StewMac Nut Slotting File .032" (0.81mm) | Hosco Nut File 0.032" Double Edge | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting edge length | 4 inches | 95 mm overall length (about 3.7 in) |
| Handle | Hardened steel, integrated | Black-coated body, no separate handle listed |
| Edge configuration | Single cutting edge | Double edge |
| Set availability | Sold singly or as a 19-piece set | Sold as a single file |
| Stated uses | Nut slotting | Nut slotting and Tune-o-matic saddles |
| Material | Hardened chrome-alloy steel | Steel (grade not stated) |
| Slot profile | Round-bottomed slots | Gauged slotting file |
Price history
- StewMac Nut Slotting File .032" (0.81mm): lowest $38.16 on Oct 31 at Amazon.
- Hosco Nut File 0.032" Double Edge: lowest $17.19 on Oct 31 at Maderas Barber.
Prices at every store
Specs compared
| Spec | StewMac Nut Slotting File .032" (0.81mm) | Hosco Nut File 0.032" Double Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Tool Type | files, Luthier Tool, nut slotting files | Mini Gauged Nut Slotting Files |
| Number Of Pieces | 1 (individual files), 19 (complete set) | 1 |
| Length | 4 inches (cutting edges) | 95 mm |
| Width | 0.042" | 12 mm |
| Typical Users | pros around the world | Luthiers |
| Primary Material | hardened steel, Chrome-alloy steel | — |
| Handle Material | hardened steel | — |
| Shape | Round-bottomed slots | — |
| Color | — | Black |
What reviewers say
StewMac Nut Slotting File .032" (0.81mm)
Luthiers who use StewMac nut files generally rate them as accurate and durable, and the round-bottom profile is the reason most buy them. The common complaint is cost, especially when building a full set gauge by gauge.
- Clean, accurate slots with little cleanup
- Holds up over many nuts without dulling fast
- Correct round bottom seats strings well
- Expensive per file
- Buying every gauge adds up quickly
- Bare steel can be slippery in the hand
Questions and answers
- Which file is better for cutting a new nut?
- The StewMac .032" is the better pick for nut work. Its 4-inch cutting edge lets you make long, straight strokes, and the hardened steel handle is built for repeated use.
- Can the Hosco file cut Tune-o-matic saddle slots?
- Yes. Hosco lists slotting Tune-o-matic saddles as a top use case for this file, alongside nut slotting. The StewMac file is listed for nut slotting only.
- Which one lasts longer?
- The StewMac file has a hardened chrome-alloy steel body and handle, which points to longer life under regular use. Hosco does not state its steel grade, so its wear life is harder to judge.
- Do I need the 19-piece set?
- Only if you slot nuts across many string gauges. The StewMac set covers every gauge; buying the single .032" file is enough for one gauge. Hosco sells this file only as a single.
- Is the Hosco worth buying over the StewMac?
- Buy the Hosco if you want a compact double-edge file that also handles saddle slots. Otherwise the StewMac's longer edge and steel handle make it the stronger tool.