Metal channel strip brushes all start out as flat steel on a roll. At Precision Brush, we offer several different brush-channel sizes: 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 10. These numbered sizes each represent the total eighths of an inch in the metal channel before it is formed into a U shape.

So, a one-inch-wide channel would be a size 8, indicating eight eights of an inch. A half-inch-wide channel would be a size 4 channel, and so on. Once a size is selected, the flat steel is then bent into a U shape, which creates the metal channel where the filaments will be held.

The smaller the channel, the less filaments (size and quantity) it will hold. For example, if you want a heavy-duty brush with very stiff, thick filaments, you would need a larger channel. As channel size goes up, we can fit more filaments in the channel as well as use thicker filaments. For a short trim brush, smaller channels may be more appropriate. Longer trim brushes usually require a heavier, thicker filament, which necessitates a larger metal channel.

Would you like to brainstorm with a brush professional? We're available to help you determine which brush will work best for your needs.

Have an idea in mind? Try our online interface to design your custom brush.

Ordered from Precision Brush before? You can reorder brushes here.