Profiling bolsters and scales

Joined
Oct 28, 2004
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I'm having a bit of a problem prfiling bolsters and scales and in particular blending one to another. I hae several knives now that have SS bolsters and stabilized wood scales. Obviously very different densities. 2" belt width, 1" bolster width. I tend to take off to much wood. Solution? Split belt to 1" or what?????
 
I profile / shape my bolsters before I put my scales on, then bring the scales down to the bolsters very carefully. Also try a stiffer belt, very flexible belts will remove more of the softer material. I've also learned to put more presure on the bolster when grinding and then feather onto the scales, it takes a light touch and practice.
 
Try doing most of the shaping on the contact wheel. When you use the slack belt it's easy to cut into the handle material. When you get it as good as you can on the contact wheel switch to slack belt with a flex belt. Let the belt hang off the wheels so it curls around and then you don't have that edge to catch the softer handle material. I start on the bolster and blend into the handle, easing up on the pressure when I get close to the handle.
I hope I explained this good.
Joe
 
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