Removing bolster

D

DainBramage

Joined
Nov 13, 2007
Messages
95
I've had a Wusthof Classic chef's knife for several years, but since I've been coming to this forum, I'm realizing that I wish it didn't have a full bolster (thanks a lot guys!! :cool:). I was wondering if it is possible to remove the bolster? I was thinking that maybe the bottom 3/8" or so could be ground off, or maybe the bottom portion of the bolster could be brought down to the thickness of the blade. How difficult would that be / how much might it cost (I don't have the equipment to even attempt) / would it be worth risking screwing up the temper / are there other concerns or options? I'm sure the easy (and fun) option would be to buy a new knife, but I'd like to hold off on that for now. Thanks in advance, and I wish you all a happy, healthy and blessed holiday season and new year!!
 
I use a slack 1" belt grinder to remove protruding bolsters on old or badly sharpened chef knives . be sure to dip the knife in water every 10 seconds or so.I think that it is possible to do it by hand with a file and a vise but i have never tried it .Good luck
 
You could send it to Tom Krein for a regrind, I do not think it would be very expensive, perhaps in the $35 plus shipping range like he charges for a regular regrind on a pocket knife. He is on the forums a lot. Tom, any thoughts?

Christmas cheers.
 
A couple of small fine files and a vise. Pad the jaws of the vise and put the knife in. File on the bolster. Go slow and curve it in well. All it takes is a bit of time.
 
Sounds like a good notion, DainBramage. I've considered that but I only have two French knives with a full bolster, and once they get too hollowed out I'll just toss em. They're good knives but probably not worth the effort to regrind. Once you get used to not having the bolster in the way you realize what a PItA is havinb it there!
 
mordi said:
I use a slack 1" belt grinder to remove protruding bolsters on old or badly sharpened chef knives . be sure to dip the knife in water every 10 seconds or so.I think that it is possible to do it by hand with a file and a vise but i have never tried it .Good luck
Click to expand...

QuietOned said:
A couple of small fine files and a vise. Pad the jaws of the vise and put the knife in. File on the bolster. Go slow and curve it in well. All it takes is a bit of time.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the replies! So, would you suggest going to the effort of trying the thin the bolster to match the blade, or just remove that section of blade?
 
As long as I don't get all "Tasmanian Devil" on it :eek:, there shouldn't be any worries about screwing up the temper with a file, right? Or maybe going easy with a Dremel? I must know someone with one of those!!
 
A file will work just fine and will be quicker than a Dremel.
 
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