304 for bolsters

[P.K.Hansen]

I recently came across some 304 stainless steel that I would like to use for bolsters. Is it any good or should I stick to nickel silver which is far more expensive?

 

[amacks]

304 is good stuff, totally stainless. It's good for bolsters as long as you don't plan on engraving them. For engraving I've been told that something somewhat hardenable, like 410, is better. The harder steel allows a finer line, and is more durable.
Aaron

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amacks@nist.gov
Don't forget to pay your taxes...they eventually become my knives

 

[george tichbourne]

I have used 304 quite a bit and other than having to use split point drills at the slowest speed possible to drill the pin holes it is good stuff. It's main benefits are availability and low price.

I don't engrave my guards and bolsters so that is no problem.

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george
www.tichbourneknives.com
sales@tichbourneknives.com