How do I use wrought iron for bolsters?

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Brian.Evans

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Aug 20, 2011
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Guys, the anal retentive part of me is going crazy. I bought some of the Globe grain elevator WI from Tracy and I'd really like to use it for bolsters on a knife I'm working on. I've searched, but I'm coming up empty. It's the only solution to use steel pins or brass and make the contrast a feature? I've not done well sourcing wrought iron nails for pins. There has to be a better way.
 
You didn't say what kind of knife, but a good solder joint is ridiculously strong. Do you need pins?
 
Small fixed blades, like very small. However, I'm wanting to use it on some slipjoints as well, so I guess the question still stands.

Do you really think a solder joint alone would be sufficient for small stuff?
 
Here's a DHIII quote from a thread, when he was asked how Kyle Hanson had attached some damascus bolsters onto a full tang knife being shown...

"The bolsters have two hidden pins that go through the tang and partially into each bolster, press fit. Also LocTite 324 glue is used. They will not come off... "

I've not tried it yet, but if it's good enough for DHIII it's good enough for me!
I am leery of using enough heat to get a good solder joint on something as large as bolsters... right near a heat treated edge. Ken Onion taught me to use pins and epoxy, and that can be done to look as if there is no joint at all, with care. Just my $.02.
 
If you want rivets, make some from a piece of the WI you already have. Slice it up into 1/4X1/4" pieces and turn/grind/forge down into pins.
You could also experiment on some scrap with using a piece of mild steel round from the hardware store.

BTW, Globe sells bundles of WI nails.
 
Make a solder joint and test it. A tight joint done with StayBrite is rilly strong and durable, It also flows at 430F, not that hot- Bob Loveless' video shows him using a heat gun and (IIRC) a damp rag to keep stray heat from going to the blade area.
I've done quite a few folders with WI soldered onto SS liners, and had one that just plain wouldn't stick- most likely some wierd inclusion in the salvaged WI- the others were good.
Salem's method is great, of course, if you prefer it.
 
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