The Nicholson hand file has a knife shape with double-cut American pattern teeth on both sides for filing acute angles, corners, and slots. The file tapers and curves to a narrow point to fit into wedged spaces. It has double-cut American pattern teeth on each side for rapid material removal; single-cut teeth on the sharp edge for finishing, sharpening, and deburring; and no teeth on the flat edge to protect adjacent surfaces. The tang can be used with an optional handle for secure gripping (sold separately).

Hand files are used to remove material and smooth and shape workpieces. They have forward-facing cutting teeth and cut when pushed over either a stationary or rotating workpiece. Single-cut teeth have single rows cut diagonally across the width of the file. Double-cut teeth have two sets of rows cut in opposite directions. American pattern files have three coarseness grades. Coarse, also known as bastard cut, is suitable for efficient, heavy material removal where finish is not a concern. Medium, also known as second cut, offers average material removal and finish quality. Fine, also known as smooth cut, provides the smoothest finish. Swiss pattern files have eight coarseness grades, from 00 (coarse), 0 (medium), and 1 to 6 (fine to finest), offering a smoother, more precise finish than equivalent American pattern files.

Nicholson manufactures hand tools and power tool accessories. The company is headquartered in Sparks, MD.