Which file is better for cutting a bone nut?

Both cut bone. The MusicNomad's diamond grit stays sharp on hard bone and resists clogging; the StewMac's steel teeth cut fast but need clearing. Pick the MusicNomad for repeated bone work.

The StewMac's hardened steel can be cleaned and keeps cutting for years of hobby use. Diamond grit wears gradually and cannot be resharpened, so heavy pro use favors replacing it sooner.

Is the MusicNomad worth extra over the StewMac?

Only if you cut graphite or nylon or want the ergonomic handle. For bone and plastic nuts, the StewMac's longer cutting edge does the job.

Do both cut the same slot width?

Yes. Both are .032 in. (0.81 mm) files, so they cut the same slot for a .032 string.

Can I use these on a saddle?

The MusicNomad is rated for saddles as well as nuts. The StewMac is sold as a nut slotting file, so use it on nuts.

Should I buy the StewMac set instead of one file?

If you set up many guitars, the 19-piece set covers common string gauges. For one gauge, a single file is enough.

StewMac Nut Slotting File .032" (0.81mm) vs Music Nomad Diamond Coated .032" Nut File .032 in.

Both files cut a .032 in. (0.81 mm) slot, but they work differently. The StewMac is a hardened chrome-alloy steel file with a 4-inch cutting edge and a round-bottomed profile; the MusicNomad uses 150-grit industrial diamond coating on a round string-shape blade with an ergonomic handle. Buy the StewMac for a traditional steel cut and a long cutting edge; buy the MusicNomad if you want diamond that cuts bone, graphite and nylon without loading up.

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