Learning hand-checkering from my old boss back in the shop

Jason Hall · 2026-03-01T07:06:36.265569+00:00

I'm thankful for those slow, careful days before computer cutters changed everything.

Oh man, remember how your hands would cramp up after holding that tiny file for too long? My first attempt looked like a toddler did it, this one messy line that just got deeper and wider until I gave up. Pretty sure my old boss kept it as a warning for the next guy.

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gray_morgan5mo ago

Read somewhere that a light touch and letting the file do the work is key. Still feels like trying to write with your off hand though.

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jasonf356mo ago

Remember trying to learn that and filing my thumbprint off instead... good times.

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lisa5786mo ago

My boss always said to keep three files sharp just for checkering. That old school touch matters when you pass it on to someone new, you know?

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