Hardness testing with files consists essentially of cutting or abrading the surface of metal parts, and approximating the hardness by the feel, or extent to which, the file bites into the surface. the term "file hard" means that the surface hardness of the parts tested is such that a new file of proven hardness will not cut the surface of the material being tested.
SAE J864-1993 history
2018SAE J864-2018 Surface Hardness Testing with Files
1993SAE J864-1993 Surface Hardness Testing with Files
1988SAE J864-1988 SURFACE HARDNESS TESTING WITH FILES
1984SAE J864-1984 Surface Hardness Testing with Files@ Recommended Practice
1963SAE J864-1963 SURFACE HARDNESS TESTING WITH FILES