HOSCO ZONE FILE makes fret-leveling eaZy!
Can refine fret level while string are on!
The Zone File is a unique tool that allows you to check the fret level while the strings are on, if necessary, make adjustment with a diamond file as it is.
The name “Zone File” is derived from its unique “Z” shape and its meaning of checking and adjusting a specific “zone” of three adjacent frets.
To cover the zone from the low fret to the high fret, four length were previously needed. That is why the Zone files have been designed in a trapezoidal shape, and two files make one set. (Pat. Pend.)
This “Z” shape has meaning: The edge of the “Z” is used as a straight edge gauge to check fret buzzing, and the diamond file in the center of the “Z” flat surface to get rid of it.
How to use
Try to find an edge perfectly spanning 3 frets
1) Viewing it sideway, see if the edge you picked nicely touches 3 adjacent frets.
In short, only three protrusions of frets should evenly be situated lengthwise.
You can check the fret level while strings are on!
2) Set the Zone file so that it passes under the strings to be checked.
Select a zone file that is long enough to span the three frets to be checked.
Tilt the zone file so that its edges touch the three frets, and check with both hands to see if there is any rattling.
If there is no rattling, move the file by one fret and continue the check in the same manner.
You can adjust the fret level while strings are on!
3) If there is any sagging, it means that the center fret is high.
Set the Zone file so that the diamond file surface touches the fret, and gradually sand it to adjust.
While doing this, check as in step 1) to see if the fret level is even.
If necessary, remove the strings and shape the crown with a crown file.
Spec
Size:
(H-ZONE-L) 105/75(l) x 30(h) x 10(w)mm
(H-ZONE-H) 50/35(l) x 30(h) x 10(w)mm
Diamond file :
#800 grit,
(H-ZONE-L) 15 x 8mm + 15 x 8mm
(H-ZONE-H) 12 x 8mm + 10 x 8mm
Material :
Stainless steel, 1mm thick
Line up
Caution
While adjusting, try to minimize the filing move and make sure if it stays right on a 3-fret-span.
Otherwise protrusive frets may peel off the sheet edges, which in turn damage frets unintentionally.