Which Is The Better Nut File? StewMac DiamondCut vs Music Nomad Diamond Coated

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Gauged DiamondCut™ Nut Slotting File Set for Acoustic Guitar: stewmac.sjv.io/gbkABg
DiamondCut™ Nut Slotting Files (Individual): stewmac.sjv.io/mgVXq7
Nut File Backer: stewmac.sjv.io/qnXE9b
MusicNomad MN668 6 pc. Diamond Coated Electric Guitar Nut Slotting File Set - Light Strings, with Storage Case: amzn.to/3ovStM4
Patreon.com/DriftwoodGuitars
www.DriftwoodGuitars.com
Thanks for watching! Don't forget to hit like, subscribe, and drop us a comment to be entered to win the set of MusicNomad files you see in this video!

[@shawndudley2027]

One item missed: The Music Nomad files can be removed from their plastic handles, you don't have to use them. Then you can sight right down them the same way as the Stew Mac files.

[@williamking7420]

I have and use the Music Nomad nut files. I've had no issues with them at all. And at 20% of the cost of the Stew Mac files they are hands down the best bargain in my opinion.

[@slrcustomguitars]

Thanks a lot for the shootout ! I'm in need of an upgrade to my nut files and have had my eye on the Music Nomad set for a little while.

[@kristyleger6938]

Excellent comparison of the products. We watched the video you produced when you received the Stewnac files and found it very interesting and informative. When you start out ,your work is only as good as the tools you are working with. You are exceptional in your teaching. Keep up the good work, we are two of your biggest fans. Big shout out from East Coast Canadian novice guitar builder, Thanks, from Victor!

[@williamcatalano1762]

Loving the content you guys are putting out the last 6 months. Awesome job guys. This channel is going to grow and grow I hope!

[@kyleandrew779]

I'm happy I found your channel and have been going through your older videos. Keep it up! I've been going back and forth on stew mac vs music nomad tools so i really appreciate a review like this. Of course winning the giveaway would put that to rest.

[@TheFoErocks]

I have been using a basic file set for a few years now, but in the last few months my business has GREATLY increased and these would suuuuuuure come in handy. Either way THANK YOU for the vid. As above mentioned I need new files and this will help single out which set to get!

[@charlesweers1261]

I retired 3 years ago just getting started in building and repairing guitars as a hobby. These nut files would be nice have. All the information on your channel is the best thanks.

[@seamdye147]

Hey guys, I absolutely love this channel. I fisrt discovered it while researching a Taylor purchase. Your honest and thourough reviews, and "cutting in half" really go far beyond any other comparison out there. You explain techniques on building your own instrument are equally educational. About the Nomad files, would I love to 'win' the set, sure, but there are others here who are more deserving. I'm glad I saw you use those Stew Mac ones, as you indicated, have a premium performance. Got to save some money away for those. I am in the process of building my own shop to do local repair/setups and build my own electrics (your Tele style;s are GORGEOUS!). Thanks again Chris and Max, and keep the great content coming! -Dave

[@garychristman2698]

I’ve been looking to pull the trigger on these for a while and it’s nice to see that they are worth it for someone like me looking to get into doing set ups.

[@ramsilva]

Great video! I just started learning to build and setup guitars on a budget. Fret files would take my nut work to the next level. Thank you so much for the opportunity!

[@dangerald7362]

Just recently I was considering building a guitar for my grandson as a Christmas present . Found your channel on KZbin and was really blown away by the dynamics involved in creating a precision musical instrument. Figured I should wait till I have better tools and understanding of the process. So another words I have no tools other than a router, drill press and table saw. I think you guys are very generous to do this to show people how to build their own guitar. I am a keyboard player played and have played in several bands, but I would love to make my grandson a quality guitar.

[@kd8qmw]

I appreciate your assessment. “Good Enough” sounds good to me right now. Thanks guys

[@JScottAudio]

I am in the process of building my shop in a return to Lutherie after a 15 year absence. My old Stew Mac files are looking at being replaced / upgraded. Chris's acoustics are inspiring and the inlay work is incredible. Thanks for this review.

[@RonSteinPhotography]

I’m diving deep into guitar setups and repairs and would be much blessed with a set of files, thank you! As always, awesome and super helpful content!

[@xparatrooper93]

Thanks for the comparison video. Been waiting forever to see one.

[@scottakam]

Thanks guys. I've had the old style Stew Mac nut files for a couple of years and they work fine for me. Set of 6 for about $100. Also a good choice for part timers like me.

[@jeraldtackitt6749]

Thanks for the comparison. I’m still using a set of hand-me-down files from a luthier friend who inspired me to start building mandolins. Every time I buy a tool is a shot in the dark. I’ve learned that cheap is often a waste of money. Thanks for help. You seem to enjoy your work.

[@guitar_md]

Sold me on the Stewmac. Excellent video. Got them months ago and am absolutely thrilled. I only use the backers for the .010", .013", and .016" gauge files, and used my label maker to make labels to stick onto the backers. These are perfect. No more pinging nut slots. I used to crease a piece of 1500 sandpaper, wet it, and sand the nut slots to smooth the sides to get that dreaded ping to go away. Haven't had to do this a single time since using these files. The "U" shape that they cut is just perfect. I still use my old standard nut files. Mostly for my nut slot spacing technique I came up with, that requires nut files that have smooth sides. The diamond files are especially a joy to use when cutting fretless nut slots, e.g. fretless guitar/bass or violin. There's a finesse you can get when getting the strings to the perfect depth that you just can't get with standard nut files. The cut is smooth and perfect...and again, no dreaded ping. I'm sure the Music Nomad files are fantastic as well. For the lifetime guarantee and wanting the absolute best quality possible, I'm glad I went with Stewmac. I've been doing this a very long time and my biggest regrets with tool purchases have been wishing I spent more for the best I could afford. These have definitely been the most major upgrade to my nut making tools in a long time.

[@eddiewright8921]

I've been a repair man since the 70's. Nut files were so hard to find in those days. Had to use all kinds of small files, saw blades, and luck. I've been using Stew Mac steel files. I would like to try the Music Nomad to see how well the diamond files work. BTW I really enjoy your videos, and have picked up a lot of pointers. You guys are doing a great service to your viewers. Thanks

[@codywitten1714]

Thanks for this video guys i've been looking for nut files for awhile to fit my budget!

[@Kevin.odonnell]

I always score the slots with a razor saw first so that skipping out of the slot is never an issue.

[@ArthurMorgan_5327]

Thanks Chris and Matt, learned a lot from your channel - nut filing is something I always feel frightened to do myself, mostly due to my amazon 6 dollars set does not work very well, I almost always end up taking the off and file the bottom to get it lower, now I can use a good set. thank you - good luck to me!!!

[@74dartman13]

I just received a set of the Music Nomad files about an hour ago. I can't wait to try them!👍😎🎸🎶

[@insearchoftone9602]

I would love to have a set of nut files. Been in the market for quite some time. So glad you guys decided to check these out.

[@wesleycheney9735]

I'm just getting started in lutherie, and something like this set of files would go a long way in helping on my journey.

[@calvinbass1839]

Those guitars have the most beautiful headstock I think I've ever seen. Thank you for sharing. Have a blessed day.

[@kristyleger6938]

Your comparison was very well executed! Thank you!

[@corybrooks210]

Nice to see there is a relatively affordable nut file option out there, thanks for the review.

[@darrenbridgers7748]

Thanks for the comparison review!

[@OperationStackola247]

I really appreciate how much you guys are willing to share to show us how you go about making guitars. Thank you! Winning these would go a long way towards being able to start building a few guitars of my own.

[@kanker5256]

its very little you need way more than that

[@OperationStackola247]

@@kanker5256 This is one of those things I don't already have.

[@kanker5256]

@@OperationStackola247 yes, but you can find one or improvise one easily. unlike glues, presses, jointer blades etc...

[@OperationStackola247]

@@kanker5256 I don’t want to argue, but I’ve never seen any good results from people trying to improvise nut files. As I said initially, these would go a long way in helping me (my situation isn’t your situation) build guitars and work on my own. Anyways, have a good day.

[@LPCustom3]

I'd love them! I work on guitars(and amps) and have for 45 years. Stew-Mac is great! Thanks for letting me enter!

[@ulrike650]

I will soon be building my first Guitar, I am super excited, and to gather all the tools is… well you guys of all, probably know how much it costs. So these Files would really help. Anyways, even if i won‘t get them, thank you very much for the opportunity, and for all the content of your channel. Thanks.

[@don7294]

I love what you guys are doing and even though I have repaired guitars for years, I continue to learn from you. I have made my own files and haven't purchased nut files yet. Thanks for sharing!

[@sheptak28]

I’m looking for some new nut files, since my 25 year old StewMac ones are wearing out, this video was very helpful. Here’s a tip I discovered that helps a lot to get accurate slot placement: I use my jeweler’s saw with a super fine blade to cut right on the pencil mark first, then start each slot with a fine file. Makes things much easier, for me at least. Thanks for your entertaining and informative videos!

[@jimdoner3443]

Stew Mac will replace your old files free of charge, but you probably already know that

[@lanesumner2293]

So far all the Music Nomad products I have tried have been great. I been wanting these files but I have not been able to afford them at the moment. I would love a set. Thank you.

[@stephencshapiro]

I have no plans of ever becoming a luthier but love to tinker on my own guitars. Great review. Thanks so much.

[@antiquiss]

I have this set of Music Nomad files and just built my first hand-made bone nut. These files are great, but I can confirm that they will jump slot on you if you're not careful. They also can cut VERY fast, but that slows down after some use. I'm a hobbyist and don't make any money (yet) doing guitar work, but I do not regret the money spent for the Music Nomad set. I do plan on getting some supplemental sizes to add to my kit at some point.

[@mattcopeland2386]

I really like how you guys compared the stew Mac and music nomad products to help us determine which would work best for our situations.

[@thedaver8]

I LOVE the Music Nomad files! The comparison in price almost makes it sound like Music Nomad is the "inexpensive" option, but $90 for a set of files is still pricey. But they are by far the best value for the money and they're great quality and work very well! Great video!

[@creedsexton296]

I need a set ... Just started building electrics after 30 years of only acoustic builds... Keep up the good work Love the channel...

[@scottriddle5468]

I bought one of the stewmac nut files last year to try it out and there great . I probably won't will buy the rest of the set due to price. stewmac makes great tools but I'm a part time builder . Thanks for the review too.

[@dfloopy1]

I would love to be able to get these files. I've been slowly building up a tool kit to start my hand at fixing older guitars with the hopes of building an acoustic guitar one day. Your channel has been a big inspiration so far and has really helped provide a good perspective on instument making im general.

[@smokerx893]

i am not 100% certain i would need the files or not. but thanks to you guys along with others on you tube i have been starting to make repairs on an old 1970'ish ensenada 12 string that me and a cpl friends saved from a trash pile waaaay back in the early 90's when we were teens. i will be taking on a neck repair next.

[@michaelically7893]

Yes, to start my musical instrument tools set

[@cesarelizondo5464]

Very nice review and for the few times I would use them the Nomad is the way to go for me. Thanks for your time for doing all these videos for us.

[@Bobred1965]

I'm gonna build my first guitar in 2022 and these files would be a good start on tools !

[@justinshew3171]

I’ve been needing a set of nut files. I’ve started doing some electric guitar work and I really could use a set. Great video guys!!

[@zaccupples4485]

I’m just getting back into woodworking again after a few years off. I learned everything from KZbin because no one I know did it but I’m wanting to build guitars. I’ve actually to for 5+ years now but was always intimidated and I just need the guitar specific tools. I was already looking at the MusicNomad stuff because I already used their cleaner, neckrest, and nut lube. Thanks for doing this review and I would love to have them.

[@bottrellio6434]

Im a 'casual guitar builder' and these would be an upgrade for me! Thanks for the info!

[@peteqwerty51]

Thanks again for taking the time to make the video. I have been using the old style StewMac nut files for years. As I am now semi retired I only do a few guitars a week so I don’t think I will get a set of the new StewMac diamond files, the less expensive set would be a great addition to my tool kit. Pete Towers PS: I noticed that you have a StewMac ‘Rock and roll’ neck rest on your bench, I sent in the idea for that to StewMac about 30 years ago! If only I had the patent, I could have got about 15 cents per unit and could be $30- $40 richer by now

[@jasonbrown6554]

Thank you for all your great tips and advice. These look good. I've just picked up and old guitar I'm trying to fix and get playable. Something to get into repairs and lutherie.

[@robmac4582]

Awesome video, very helpful

[@Hikaru109Ichijyo]

Thanks for the review. I got an Heritage ES electric and owner had cut the original nut so low it buzzes so, I got a tusq nut, have the music nomad ones on the list. I remember I replace the cracked plastic nut on a classical in college and used regular files files to get the shape and burned thru box cutter razors to get the initial groove marks and using old electric 9's g string to hack in the slots. Worked, but took some time .

[@bjlarsen1393]

Thanks for the comparison! Really helps those on a tight budget...

[@staffansvahn]

Yes please, I build a neat little parlor guitar and will soon be launching my business. Thank you for your great content. Best regards

[@Thebrotherhoodpt2]

Working on my first full build and I've been chewing on how im gonna do the nut these would be a huge blessing

[@channel8H]

Nice! I love my Hosco nut files, even w/o the diamond coating.

[@MitchWilmoth]

I am just starting my first guitar and I could definitely use a set of these.

[@WDelk]

Great timing. I have been looking for a set of files.

[@calebzimmerman7456]

I'll use them to string up my first telecaster build that you inspired me to build!

[@stricknine8623]

Thank ya'll soo much for this helpful review. Extremely informative and well executed video review.

[@billyp5492]

Wow, this is perfect timing for this giveaway! I just so happen to be collecting parts and tools for my very first build and these are on the Xmas list!

[@clockworkdiamond]

I would be ever so grateful for those files if I got them. I've been using crappy generic files from Amazon to file nuts, and these would be a game-changer for my workflow! That being said, I love your content, and I have learned a ton of things from it!

[@gah1972]

I've been learning how to do repairs and setups and this year I'm taking on the schematic ukulele kit I've always wanted to learn how to build acoustic instruments and after looking at the kit the plastic nut is going to have to go these nut files will definitely be perfect for my first project and probably much better than sandpaper in a feeler gauge

[@michaelmenet2712]

I'd love the Music Nomad nut files. Thanks! Happy Holidays.

[@symonf1966]

I find your youtube content so encouraging as I suffer with depression and sometimes lack the motivation to get into my workshop. I build mainly acoustic guitars at the moment and I do want to build some electric guitars as well next year. I would appreciate being considered as the new owner of these files. Thank you for taking the time to post so many good quality videos. Symon.

[@sushisuzuki]

Amateur ukulele luthier from Japan here, been awesome watching your guys video, and yeah, I could definitely use better nut files right now :)

[@BAND-MAID-USA]

Wry important note. The Music Nomad set makes it possible to remove the cutting blade from the handle which is VERY important to know.

[@mknchpssimmons4281]

Thanks for the video! With 2 kits in progress and 3 more planned, never mind the collection, a good set of files would be quite handy.

[@catrionanicthamhais]

Have been using the stewmac regular nut files for awhile now. Was looking at the diamond ones from them lately and would purchase them if i had the funds for sure. I recently discovered the music nomad files and thought that these would be a great compromise and your video really helped me to make up my mind on the music nomads. I will purchase four from my classical and flamenco guitars and i'm sure they will do the job just fine for me. Thanks!

[@justaboy813]

Recently discovered your channel. Really have been enjoying it

[@AncientApparatus]

I'm retired & have recently gotten into setting up guitars. I have found that I not only enjoy doing it but I'm also pretty good at it. My only problem is I'm limited in what I can do because of the limited amount of tools I have, so it would sure be nice to win these files.

[@BudgetRC_Channel]

I'd love to give these Music Nomad files a try. I do all of my own work, but a set of nut files is the one area that I haven't invested in yet. Thanks for the video!

[@friedheimstefan]

This would be a great upgrade. I've been using feeler gauges that I cut teeth into. It works... but not well. I would definitely appreciate an actual set of files

[@Charles75N]

Lately I have been doing a bunch of guitar projects. Have quite a few nuts that could use some find tuning and have no files. Thx Great video. Love the channel.

[@jamesnealwoodworking8133]

Love to have a set if those Music Nomad nut file! I haven’t pulled the trigger yet on a set, but I am nearing the end of my Build and the nut is next! Love your guitars and your videos!

[@LA3Music]

I need a set of these files. I was out of work for awhile And was doing some set up work just using my standard tools. For some spending cash… having the right tool for the job is so important.

[@markkinsey2436]

I have been looking at nut files just recently. As well as learning guitar for retirement, I have found I enjoy working on them as well. I have an Epiphone ES-335 that needs the nut slots set deeper, but really don't want to take it in when I have an opportunity to learn something new. Thanks for the review!

[@WacoFlier]

Appreciate all the information you provide. I'm a later comer to guitar-started at age 60-and enjoy doing my own setups on cheap guitars. I, too, use the feeler gauges with notches cut into them; very inaccurate. I'd love to have the set of MusicNomad diamond coated nut slot files!

[@fabriceschloegel3334]

Great video again. Would love the files!

[@linic99]

I don't have the Nomad files, but I have bought several Music Nomad guages and tools and I am very satisfied with Music Nomad products. I have to say that I like the engineering of the Music Nomad files. Thanks for the review.

[@Rustyshacklfert]

I would love to have these files! My 33rd birthday is December 15th. I’m m a one income dad supporting a 5 person household. I’ve been playing since I was 14 and just recently started learning how to do setups and routine maintenance as well as the occasional repair( I’ve only done 2 bridges but i’m not a business, these are my instruments). I recently bought the hosco light acoustic nut files. I’d love to try these! Huge fan. Thanks guys!

[@jakeallama22]

I love tinkering on my guitars and will be building my first kit soon. I would like these files.

[@jasperdsmith]

Been enjoying your videos, of course, of course!!

[@musobill]

Great video as always! I fine tune instruments free for friends and would love these. Great channel. Best wishes from Australia.

[@cmanningjr]

I'm really wanting to learn to make my own bone nuts. These nut files would really help me out. Great review

[@uptopmikep7065]

I love Stew Mac products. Better tools = better work, or at least more efficient work in most cases. I need these files because my nuts need a good filing. My wife says they’re too rough. Thanks for another great video guys!

[@bobthreeton6976]

Great review! I just saw these files on Amazon the other day and wondered if they were any good. Now I know; they’re good enough.

[@shdixon]

I'm 72 years old and still playing out with my band, Three Chords and a BEER. I took a week course on refretting electric guitars 40 years ago with Dan Erlewine. This got me going to working on and building my own guitars. About 35 years ago I bought a set of German nut files from StewMAC, The .010 file never worked right. I discovered about 15 years ago that this file was flat on the bottom not rounded. The flat slot made the high E string buzz. I bought a set of the double edge files from StewMac and problem solved. I Have been looking at the StewMac diamond files but the price for me is just out of reach. I found the Music Nomad diamond files about two months ago. I've been looking for a "real' review and found yours today. THANK YOU! To see your review is very helpful. The Music Nomad video shows how to take the file out of the plastic holder wen starting slots so you can see your mark better. My double-edge files work fine but I can see the value of the diamond edge because I have the StewMac diamond edge fret crowning file. It would be great to have your demo set of the Nomad files to start building a larger set. Thanks again.

[@paulnufrio8343]

I think it’s great I have three guitars I need to set up and I haven’t done it before and watching your videos so I think this would be a good gift for me

[@dassouki]

They look good and probably complement what I do, about 6 ukuleles a year! Thanks for putting out those videos :D

[@robinmason2926]

Hey guys - great video as always! I'm a guitar teacher in the UK and am slowly working my way through setting up all the nasty, ancient guitars at the school where I teach. Would love these files so I can do a decent job on the nuts.

[@hkguitar1984]

Very glad you were able to do the comparison. I do not need a file set so please don’t enter me into the giveaway ( I just purchased a set ). Good luck to whoever wins them, having nut files are an excellent addition to any tool collection.

[@amodelman7]

I’ve been eyeing the MusicNomad nut files. They look well made.

[@parkernewman5115]

I would love to have these! I have the acoustic set already and really like them so far. Thanks 🙏

[@wooserthethird]

I just got the music nomad files they work well for just setting up my guitars at home.

[@LPS-mh8kx]

Just bought a set of super light Music Nomad nut files. Haven’t tried them yet but they look like quality. You can remove them out of the plastic holder to sight easily.

[@tombrain3122]

Hey guys, great content again! I'm working on my first build and a set of nut files would help a ton. I've already spent more on tools than I can honestly admit to my wife. Lol. Keep the great inspirational content coming. Thanks

[@wonkoelsano]

Thanks for the review and I would love to have 'em