Stanley 8/200 mm Flat Rasp

The Stanley 8/200mm Flat Rasp is a specialized hand tool used primarily in woodworking for shaping, smoothing, and refining wood surfaces. It features a flat blade with a series of sharp, raised teeth or ridges along its surface, which are designed to efficiently remove material through abrasion.

Key features of the Stanley 8/200mm Flat Rasp include:

1. **Hardened Steel Construction**: The rasp blade is typically crafted from high-quality hardened steel, ensuring durability and resistance to wear and corrosion. This robust construction allows the rasp to maintain its cutting ability over time, even when used on hardwoods or abrasive materials.

2. **Rasping Teeth**: The surface of the rasp blade is covered with sharp, raised teeth or ridges, which come in various configurations depending on the rasp's intended use. Common types of rasping teeth include single-cut and double-cut patterns, each offering different cutting actions and surface finishes.

3. **Flat Profile**: Unlike files, which have a flat or curved surface, the Stanley Flat Rasp features a flat blade profile, making it ideal for shaping and smoothing flat surfaces, edges, and profiles in woodworking projects. It can be used for rapid material removal, leveling uneven surfaces, and refining contours.

4. **Length and Width**: The rasp blade typically measures 8 inches (200mm) in length and varies in width depending on the specific model and intended application. The width of the rasp blade determines the coverage area and the amount of material removed with each stroke.

5. **Ergonomic Handle**: Some Flat Rasps come with a handle attached to one end, providing a comfortable grip and better control during use. The handle may be made of wood, plastic, or rubber and is designed to reduce hand fatigue and improve user comfort, especially during prolonged rasping tasks.

6. **Versatility**: The Stanley Flat Rasp is a versatile tool suitable for various shaping, smoothing, and refining tasks in woodworking projects. It can be used for shaping and smoothing flat surfaces, edges, and profiles, as well as for roughing out contours, rounding corners, and sculpting wood.

7. **Cutting Direction**: Similar to other rasps and files, the Flat Rasp is designed to cut in a specific direction, either pushing (forward stroke) or pulling (backward stroke). It's essential to use the rasp in the correct direction to achieve optimal cutting efficiency and prolong the rasp's lifespan.

8. **Cleaning and Maintenance**: Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to maintain the cutting effectiveness and prolong the lifespan of the Flat Rasp. Periodically cleaning the rasp to remove built-up material and debris, as well as storing it in a dry and clean environment, can help prevent rust and corrosion.

Overall, the Stanley 8/200mm Flat Rasp is an indispensable tool for shaping, smoothing, and refining wood surfaces in woodworking projects. Its durable construction, sharp rasping teeth, and ergonomic design make it a valuable addition to any woodworking toolkit.