Iwasaki D200B2 Half-round File for Luthiers

Iwasaki D200B2 Half-round file for Luthiers

The Iwasaki D200B2 is a Japanese half-round file designed for shaping wood and other non-metal materials with speed and control. Its semicircular profile allows access to curved surfaces, concave areas and transitions where a flat file would be difficult to use, making it highly versatile in the luthier’s workshop.

Its Coarse toothing provides aggressive stock removal while maintaining a surprisingly smooth finish thanks to Iwasaki’s characteristic chemically cut teeth. It is ideal for rough shaping of heels, volutes, curved joints, interior surfaces, bridge shaping and neck-to-body transitions.

The chip-breaking tooth geometry prevents clogging and ensures a smooth cut even in dense hardwoods. The two-hand design provides excellent control on small or curved surfaces.

Fast shaping on curved surfaces

The half-round shape allows the use of both the flat face and the curved face, adapting perfectly to rounded profiles and interior contours. With its 200 mm (7-7/8") length, it is compact yet precise, ideal for carving areas where flat tools cannot reach.

The D200B2 is a favourite among luthiers when fast stock removal without deep scratches is required, especially on three-dimensional parts and complex geometries.

Is it suitable for nut and saddle work?

Yes. The Iwasaki D200B2 is useful for rough-shaping bone nuts and saddles and bringing them close to their final size before fine finishing.

Technical Specifications

• Instrument: Guitars, basses and other stringed instruments
• Material: Japanese steel with chemically cut Iwasaki teeth
• File type: Half-round, double-sided
• Overall length: 200 mm (7-7/8")
• Toothing: Coarse, fast stock removal with smooth finish
• Profile: B-series, semicircular
• Cut direction: Push stroke
• Work materials: Wood, plastics, bamboo, resins and other non-metal materials