mokume and damascus bolsters

[holdanedge]

I rarely have a question but I do now. I do not at all mean to be a troll this is a genuine question. it seems most higher end knives that have Damascus blades have mokume or Damascus bolsters. I do like the look. some of my highest end knives like emerson and walker simply have polished bolsters. notwithstanding engraving which is obviously preferable. I was wondering if this is found mainly on newer knives or something? since I cannot see why some really good knives of yore do not have this. you can find $600 knives with this and you can find several thousand dollar older knives without it. I figure this does not diminish the value of older knives since they now command high prices. was this not available or not in vogue or something. what's the story? I will take my custom knives over a William henry even though they are mostly not nearly as fancy. I have wm too but those are not my grails.

I was just wondering honestly. I did not mean anything by this other than exactly what I have asked. I hope someone can give me the story about this "decoration".

thank you

 

[LX_Emergency]

Quite simple, some people like it...some people don't. When you mention Emerson and Walker (although I'd be impressed with your disposable income/credit line if you can afford a proper Walker knife) are more utalitarian in nature....although later Walkers are not.

You'll find damascus bolsters on cheap Rough Rider lockbacks....and on $1500+ customs.

It's really a matter of taste, nothing more.

Although I have found that a heavily etched damascus or engraved bolster hides usage marks better than polished clean bolsters. So my preferences lie with etched/engraved/damascus.

 

[holdanedge]

thanks. I knew there was some explanation. I do see later walkers have it. that is why I thought it was just newer. I do really like some fantastic engraving though. indeed smooth silver bolsters are scratched. I am glad to hear this. as most of my mokume/Damascus bolstered knives are not my favorite. good to know it boils down to taste.