String grooves and files?

[Kopper1013]

Hey guys getting ready to file my first string grooves and am wondering what length and size file ya'll like to use? my father has a bunch of different sizes so I don't really wanna buy one but wasn't sure if everyone uses one specific size or do you guys very a little?

Also does anyone make/sell string groove guides? Like something metal with grooves in it and you just slide over your tips and just file until your file hits metal? A little more idiot proof, guess I'm a little worried ill over file and twist limbs on my first bow or have them break off during full draw. Thanks for all your help thus far!

[Robertfishes]

I use Oregon chain saw files, I buy them in a two pack from Lowes $7.00. I think the size is 5/32" ??? The get dull filing thru fiberglass, I might get 3 bows out of one file. I wish I had a guide for cutting and shaping, I just do it by eye..It is amazing how much material you can remove and the tips don't blow off..

[4est trekker]

I start by cutting the initial grooves with a round carbide cutting rod that installs in any hacksaw frame.  They're designed for tile and other such material and are cheap.  They hog off material very quickly and efficiently.  They leave things a little undersized and rough, so I finish them of as Robert does...with Oregon chain saw files.

[Bowjunkie]

4" Nicholson round file... sometimes I delicately use a worn chain saw file to smooth it out and open it up in a few specific spots, but 90% of the work is done with the little 4"-er. No guide needed... just practice.

[Robertfishes]

For shaping the tips I have a cheap Harbor Freight 1"x30" bench top belt Sander, I rough shape them then I use a mouse sander for final shaping..I just cut the string grooves with the chain saw files.

[George Tsoukalas]

This is how I do it.
http://georgeandjoni.home.comcast.net/~georgeandjoni/boardbowbuildalong.html
Jawge

[Robertfishes]

My bow tips are a 4 layer composite of 030 glass, 1/16" phenolic,030 glass then a 020 wood veneer on top. The power tools i use are not necessary..but they do make it easier.

[LittleBen]

I also use a 5/32 chainsaw file. Used to use. 1/4" round file but I wanted the grooves smaller.

Sometimes I start the groove with a hacksaw or the edge of a half round file because it's easier to start accurately that a round file.

[JamesV]

Just found a good file for string groves, lots better than the (nock files) sold by the bow suppliers. Check out "Frostbite" 5/32 chain files on the auction site. Got 12 delivered for $15 and they cut twice as fast as a "nock file"