Bolster fitting & tolerances

[Michael Bennett]

Can anyone suggest a good formula/method for fitting bolsters and pins? Do you folks use precise measurement or do you just eyeball it?

Thanks,

Mike

 

[C L Wilkins]

Michael,
Could you be more specific?

CLWilkins

 

[Michael Bennett]

Sure. Do you simply take a 1/4" drill bit and make a hole and then use a 1/4" pin and drop it in? Or do you press-fit an oversized pin?

If press-fitting, does that distort the surrounding handle material?

Do you solder the bolster on?

Is there any 'trade secrets' to getting a firm fitting on the bolster?

Do you have trouble fitting bolsters securely to folder sides, which may be thin strips of brass or steel or aluminum, etc?

Mike

So many things to learn, so little time.

 

[Ray Murski]

Mike,
When installing bolsters, counter sink the holes and use a ball peen hammer to mushroom the pins into the counter sink. If the pin will not fit into the hole, chuck the pin into the drill press and use a file or sand paper to turn the pin down so that it will fit into the hole. I like my pins to fit so taht they do not fall out on their own.
Bolsters on folding knives( like the folding kits sold in catalogs) need to be soldered on before hammering the knife together. "How to Make Multi-Blade Folding Knives" by Shadley & Davis will show you how to make folding knives. Good Luck--Ray--

 

[Tom Militano]

I don't use 1/4" pins, I use 1/8th" pins and drill the holes with a number 30 drill. I think you will find them a lot easier to work with. The rest I do as Ray Murski passed on to you.
Tom

 

[Michael Bennett]

Thanks, gentlemen! This information is greatly appreciated! I'll look for that book. I haven't started making knives yet, but hope to start in a few months.

Mike