Iwasaki D200A3 Flat File for Luthiers

Iwasaki D200A3 Flat File for Luthiers

The Iwasaki D200A3 is a Japanese flat two-hand file designed for non-metal materials such as wood, plastics, bamboo and resins. It belongs to the well-known Iwasaki chemically cut series, capable of removing material quickly while leaving an impressively clean surface.

Its Medium toothing provides an excellent balance: fast cutting performance with a finer finish than the Coarse version. This makes it ideal for precision work in lutherie such as shaping necks, volutes, heels, bridges and transition areas.

The flat, double-sided design allows controlled pressure on small surfaces and a very precise feel during cutting, even on dense woods. The tooth geometry breaks chips efficiently, preventing clogging and ensuring smooth cutting at all times.

Clean and controlled shaping for woodwork

With its overall length of 200 mm (7-7/8"), the D200A3 is perfect for areas where a full-size file is hard to maneuver. Its Medium toothing offers a cleaner surface, ideal for intermediate steps between heavy stock removal and final sanding.

It is especially useful when precision and speed are required simultaneously, for example when refining a neck profile, smoothing heel transitions or working on small wooden components before final sanding.

Is it suitable for nut and saddle work?

Yes. The Iwasaki D200A3 is effective for rough-shaping bone nuts and saddles and bringing them close to their final size. Finer files or sandpaper are recommended for final finishing.

Technical Specifications

• Instrument: Guitars, basses and other stringed instruments
• Material: Japanese steel with chemically cut Iwasaki teeth
• File type: Two-hand flat file, double-sided
• Overall length: 200 mm (7-7/8")
• Toothing: Medium, fast cut with finer finish
• Cut direction: Push stroke
• Work materials: Wood, plastics, bamboo, resins and other non-metal materials