What are the bolsters on the TC barlow made of?

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Aug 28, 2011
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While waiting for a TC barlow I want to figure out what the bolsters are made of. Someone wrote carbon steel once, is that the case?
 
Then I guess it'll look aged quickly. I think it'll be a nice change for nickel silver.
 
I believe, and I am sure someone will correct me if I am wrong, but it is has a lower carbon content than the blades. So, yes, it will earn a nice patina, but does not develop as fast as it will on the 1095 blades. You can see some in the traditional barlow thread that have been forced to good effect.
 
Then I guess it'll look aged quickly. I think it'll be a nice change for nickel silver.

It can.

1jq1.jpg


- Christian
 
I believe, and I am sure someone will correct me if I am wrong, but it is has a lower carbon content than the blades. So, yes, it will earn a nice patina, but does not develop as fast as it will on the 1095 blades.

That's been my experience so far.
 
Some say the bumpers from '57 Cadillacs...

Here is one of my Barlows with some patina...next to my Eureka

2.jpg
 
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Christian, either you are one of the best photographers in here, or you just find the best knives! Great patina by the way.

Dave, the Charlow and Eureka jack are nice man!

I still have yet to try the apple cider vinegar patina. I have a bowl at home, the vinegar, a microwave. I just need time once I get home.

Maybe I will have to get off of Bladeforums...
 
Almost looks real doesn't it? ;) The steel bolsters, along with the unstained covers, are very conducive to an old-timey appearance.

- Christian
 
Christian, either you are one of the best photographers in here, or you just find the best knives! Great patina by the way.

Dave, the Charlow and Eureka jack are nice man!

I still have yet to try the apple cider vinegar patina. I have a bowl at home, the vinegar, a microwave. I just need time once I get home.

Maybe I will have to get off of Bladeforums...


Just stick the blade in a potato for a couple hours...viola! Literally the "Oldest trick in the book". :)
 
I did the potato trick on a Schrade 8OT. I left each blade in the potato overnight. It looked neat, but not me. My Charlow user is beat up with spots, I need to force a patina.
 
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