Bastard ashlar

Quoted text begins.The great mystery about the bastard file is where and how did it get its
name?
End of quote.

As far as I know, the bastard file is so called because it is uncommon or
unconventional, in the sense of being somewhere between rough cut (rasp) and
fine cut (milled).

In Australia, the word 'bastard' is used in the same way to describe a
rustic person in a robustly familiar and affectionate way, as a compliment
for being out of the ordinary and not a member of polished society. Also
used in a less complimentary way to describe a mean-spirited boss.

Not to be confused with the legal sense of the word, or the expletive use
either.

The term 'bastard ashlar' means 'building stone prepared at the quarry' as
opposed to finely finished stone made in a workshop or on site. Couldn't
imagine this term used as a product name instead of 'Colonial Walling'

Regards,
Simon