304 Steel for bolsters?

[bjr]

Good morning boys. I'm starting my 4th slippie today...maybe this one will walk and talk the way I want...

My question is, I have some 304 stainless that I bought cheap to practice edge bevels on. The stuff just glows and takes a beautiful satin finish with almost no work. I'm wondering if I can use 304 for bolsters and liners? I know it wont harden, and I'm concerned that when I pein the pivot pin through the Bolster it's going to dent like putty. Does anyone use 304 for bolsters? Thanks guys!

 

[mete]

It can be used but better would be the free machining grade 303 and better yet would be 416 which most knifemakers seem to prefer.

 

[bjr]

Thanks Mete. Eventually I'd like to work in Nickel Silver for the bolsters and mirror polish it. It seems to be a little hard to find right now.

 

[Bruce Evans]

304 will work just dont try and solder it,it doesnt solder easily if at all (dont ask how I know this) engravers dont like it used if you want them to engrave your work either.
Bruce

 

[bjr]

No solder. This one still wont be a user, so I'll just epoxy it. Thanks.