What is the general rule for what size file I need for a certain string size?

The general rule is that the file should be the same size as the string, up to no more than .003″ – .004″ larger than the string size and for bass strings you can run your nut file size up to .005″ larger than the string size. In other words, for a .026″ string you would use the .028″ file; for .011″ string you use the .013″ file; for the .080″ string you use the .085″ file and so on. If you go much larger, the slot can become so large that the string vibrates in the slot, causing a buzz. If you use a file smaller than the string, the slot will be too tight, causing tuning issues.

I’ve noticed the nut material clogging up the diamond file and it feels dull and is not cutting as well. How do I clean the blade?

Using a stiff bristle brush along with a mixture of mild soap and water will clean the files. Dry the blade after cleaning.

Are there replacement blades to buy?

The majority of the cost is in the diamond coated blade and they should last a lifetime for most people so we do not sell replacement diamond coated blades.

I am buying 6 files that are not in a recommenced set, can I get one of those nice gold cases?

We are sorry but we are unable to manage custom packs like that, and only sell the gold cases with the part numbers that show it comes with.

I bought a 16 pc nut file set in 2021 and it did not come with a case like you show pictured on your website, what happened?

When we first introduced the 16 pc nut file set in Early 2021 we did not include a case. We decided in fall 2021 to add a case and cleaning brush and increased the cost to cover this. We also sell the case by itself for those that would like to have one. What you paid for the set initially without the case was lower in price than the nut file set with the case.

I filed my nut slot with the proper size nut file, and it is still a bit tight in the slot and pings when tuning. What should I do?

You’re in luck. We have a video showing a technique called rolling the file that can help solve your issue. https://youtu.be/atzYl-TlIZA
You would roll the file slightly to the right and put a bit of pressure going down the left wall of the nut slot and stop when you get to the bottom of the slot as to not go any lower. You would then roll the file slightly to the left and put a bit of pressure going down the right wall of the nut slot and stop when you get to the bottom of the slot as to not go any lower. It’s important you do not want to open the slot too much or make the slot lower. You can also use MusicNomad’s Tune It in the nut slots as a lubricant.

How far should my strings sit above the nut slots once filed to the proper height?

The strings sit above the nut about 1/4”

James Zimmers, PRS Tech Center Manager had this to say about our Diamond Coated Nut Files.

They work great, they keep the nice profile in the nut and you’re able to get the proper angle on the nut when using these.

Phillip McKnight had this to say while visiting the PT Cort Factory in Indonesia about our Diamond Coated Nut Files

I saw a lot of MusicNomad tools in this facility, especially the Nut Files being a highly used tool, which is interesting to know because you always wonder if they are going to use something specialized or different, especially since the volume. They found that the MusicNomad tools took a huge beating with the nut files, which I think is important to consider.

Geoff Luttrell, Owner-Guitar Tech of SF & Sonoma County Guitar Works had this to say about our Nut Files.

We have been testing daily the MusicNomad Nut Files for the last few months and as far as I am concerned they are a real GAME CHANGER. I have used everything out there. They do not skate, bend or break which are all issues with existing files and the diamond coating combined with the round blade design gives you smooth, precision cuts every time.

Chris, owner and Master Guitar Tech of Third Coast Guitar Repair (Chicago, IL), a top USA repair shop, sent us his thoughts on our Diamond Coated Nut Files.

I can’t believe how great these files are and the thought that went into their design. The price is so great we have 7 sets on pre order.The rigidity alone makes them better than any other nut file I have used. The diamond cut makes the file react to the pressure applied extremely accurately and there is no waste in the cutting surface. You don’t have 6 inches of file that you only use 2 inches of. That and the fact that the cutting edge of the file is shaped like a string makes so much sense, I can’t believe no one ever thought of it before.

Roger Sadowsky of the well respected Sadowsky Guitars had this to say about our Diamond Coated Nut Files.

I have been waiting over 40 years for someone to make a nut file this good….especially for bass guitars! MusicNomad sent me a sample to evaluate and I could not be happier with the design and how well this file works. I was so impressed, I ordered 4 complete sets of guitar and bass files for myself and my crew.

Tom Reardon touring Guitar Technician for Pop Evil had this to say about our Nut Files.

After years of using the “other guys” nut slotting files, I’ve officially retired them after using MusicNomad’s Diamond Coated Nut File set. They deliver the consistent quality needed for keeping my clients touring guitars in optimum playing condition and make nut adjustments / nut slotting a breeze

Suhr, one of the finest makers of hand-crafted guitars.

These are stellar in every way.

Posted on Instagram by Luthier Peter N

It was time to retire yet another set of nut files. So I opted for the MusicNomad diamond nut files. Reasonably priced compared to some other brand diamond files. They also comes in a very practical storage box, thank you very much! I did a test run and they cut at least twice as fast as my old files. And I tested an almost unused gauge from the old set.

Russell Collins, Luthier & Master Instrument Technician at Collins Music had to say about our nut files.

I’d like to compliment MusicNomad on the shear excellence of design and quality.
They elevate ones ability, pleasure and quality of nut creation to it’s full potential.

Todd Reich, from Schecter Guitars had this to say about our Diamond Coated Nut Files.

After employing these on a few hundred guitars, I can safely say that our technicians and I are absolutely thrilled with these nut files! The shape is ingenious and the size precise, in use they cut fast and don’t skate or flex, and the ergonomic handle provides the most comfortable nut slotting experience yet. We’re all very impressed!