Contrasting Bolsters

J

Jason Fry

Knifemaker / Craftsman / Service Provider
Joined
Jun 5, 2008
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I've always admired Matt Bailey's work, particularly his contrasting bolsters and handles. I think certain knife designs lend themselves to bolsters, but I'm not a big fan of stainless or brass bolsters all the time, particularly on a large-bolstered knife. Here are a couple of my knives where I've used a contrasting wood bolster. The top one has square fitted paduak bolsters and curly maple handles. The bottom has 30 degree dovetailed juniper burl bolsters and mesquite burl handles on a tapered tang.

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Thanks for looking.
 
Beautiful knives...I don't usually care for bolsters..... but.....I've just changed my mind... fabulous..
 
Very nice Handles... I especially like the top one. I am a big fan of Mr. Bailey as well!
 
Yep, Matt's work with bolsters is excellent......and Ryan W ain't far behind either. They both produce beautiful bolster work and have a good eye for appealing combinations.

Yours are looking quite good as well. Nice work on both of those, but the Paduak and curly maple is m favorite. Thanks for sharing.
 
I really don't like metal bolsters because they've been done to death and more importantly, mess with balance too much for what I like. But contrasting woods can look very classy, as you fellows have shown. I've only done one set of bolsters, they were black paper micarta with black/blue layered G10 scales, that came out OK as well.
 
Can I ask a stupid question? - What is the point of bolsters? Is it just aesthetics?
 
That's not a stupid question at all. I feel they're 99% aesthetic, which includes the fact that they do show off the maker's ability and add a cool custom touch. Nothing wrong with that!
 
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