I've tried a lot of different ways of dressing fret ends, and these are currently big favourites. The different fret filing/rounding techniques used by various high end makers can all be mimiced with these tools, and you can work quickly and consistently without marring the fingerboard. Not cheap, but they do last very well.

These files are for use after the frets have been installed, trimmed flush to the sides, and bevelled with a flat file. This sturdy steel file is 7-7/8" long (similar files from other suppliers are only 3"), a practical length for filing fret ends without jamming the handle against the edge of the fretboard. Cutting surface length is 2-3/4". The file tang is rubber-coated for comfort.

Available in two sizes; this one is for medium frets.

Concave surface: Single-cut teeth help blend the fret ends into the fret crown.

Medium: .080" (2mm)

Safe surface: Opposite the concave edge is a flat, untoothed surface to protect the fretboard when you're filing with the side surfaces.

Toothed sides: The single-cut teeth on the sides file away metal burrs and help smooth the bevel on the fret ends.

Safe corners: Each file also has smooth untoothed corners to help prevent damage to the fingerboard and the upper edges of bound necks.