StewMac Gauged Nut Slotting File.024ft Width - Precise Nut Cutting

In this review the StewMac Gauged Nut Slotting File.024' is judged as a specialist tool for luthiers and hobbyists who need precise, repeatable nut and saddle slots. The bottom line: it makes correct string seating straightforward thanks to a tempered, edge-cut profile that produces round-bottom slots and resists dulling during ordinary shop use. The file is compact, with twin 4in cutting edges on chrome-alloy steel, and it excels where accuracy and clean, consistent slots matter most.

Key Features

• Tempered edge-cut: Produces a smooth, round-bottom slot that helps strings seat properly and reduces buzzing.
• .024' gauge: Sized to match common light strings so each slot matches the string without excessive widening.
• Chrome-alloy steel: Offers good durability and maintains a sharp cutting profile for repeated use on nuts and saddles.
• Twin 4in cutting edges: Provides two working surfaces to extend the tool's useful life between replacements.
• Works on metal saddles: Effective for Tune-o-matic style saddle slots as well as traditional bone or synthetic nuts.

Who It's For

The file is aimed at busy repair shops and dedicated hobbyist luthiers who need a compact, accurate tool for dressing nuts and saddles. It is especially useful when a consistent round-bottom slot is required to ensure proper string seating and to eliminate buzz.

It is not a multi-purpose file for heavy stock removal or body work; those needing broader shaping tools or files for coarse material removal should look for larger rasps or specialty files instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High accuracy when matching file gauge to string gauge gives predictable, clean slots.
• Durable chrome-alloy construction with tempered edges helps retain shape during normal use.
• Two 4in cutting edges extend usable life and make the tool economical for shops.
• Also suitable for metal saddles, adding versatility beyond nut work.

Cons

• Some users note thickness and perceived value concerns; it is a small, specialized tool that may feel expensive relative to size.
• Very fine gauge means it can take time to widen slots if a larger diameter is needed, requiring rocking technique or multiple passes.

Specifications

Brand	StewMac
File width	.024' (gauge)
Material	Chrome-alloy steel
Cutting edges	Twin 4in edges
Typical use	Nut and saddle slotting, including metal saddles
Edge type	Tempered edge-cut producing round-bottom slots

Our Verdict

The StewMac Gauged Nut Slotting File.024' is a straightforward, well-made specialist for anyone who needs accurate nut and saddle slots. Shops and serious hobbyists will appreciate the tempered edge and twin 4in faces for longevity, and it delivers reliable string seating that reduces buzz. It represents good value for its intended purpose, though buyers should accept that it is a precision, small-format tool rather than a general-purpose file.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this file be used on metal saddles?
Yes. The tempered edge-cut design works well on Tune-o-matic style metal saddles as long as the chosen gauge matches the string.

What if my string gauge is slightly larger?
Choose a file the same size or a few thousandths larger; a smaller file can be rocked side-to-side to widen a slot if needed.

How long does the cutting edge last?
Durability depends on use, but the chrome-alloy steel and twin edges offer extended life for normal shop and hobbyist tasks; heavy material removal will shorten life.