What type of tool is used for smoothing metal edges and sharpening existing blades?

The filing tool is specifically designed for smoothing metal edges and sharpening existing blades. It features a roughened surface that removes material when it is pushed or pulled along the metal surface, allowing for precise control over the amount of material being removed. This makes it ideal for refining the edges of metal parts, ensuring they are smooth and free from burrs, which can be critical in many applications including machining and metalworking.

A chisel is primarily used for cutting and shaping materials by removing sections, while a hammer is for driving nails or breaking objects, and a saw is meant for cutting through material rather than smoothing it. None of these tools serve the specific purpose of refining edge quality and sharpening like a filing tool does.