Which is the preferred method for tang tapering?

[LARRYZ10]

I have tapered the tang s on half a dozen knives now and I wondered if I should extend the taper under the bolsters or stop the taper at the back of the bolsters. I have done it both ways . Is there a preferred method? Opinions please. Larry

 

[logem]

I don't know what is preferred, but I always stop the taper exactly at the back edge of the bolster. I keep the taper finish relatively course for epoxy adhesion. I finish the bolster / choil surface of the tang much finer.

I figure that this way, I there is no chance of a visible "seam" at the front of the bolster, as there may be if I continued the taper all the way to the front of the tang.

I hope this makes sense.

 

[LARRYZ10]

Yes, That makes sense. I have never had trouble fitting the wood to the back of the bolster with the taper. Thanks, Larry P.S. Michael, I have always admired the styling of your knives. Thanks for your well reasoned opinion. LL

 

[logem]

Then again, a very short and thick tang would look better if the taper is followed through all the way to front of the bolster/guard or all the way to the plunge line. IMO.

Mike L.

 

[LARRYZ10]

I guess if the bolsters were dovetailed like these then tapering to the front of the bolsters would make it look smoother from the spine view.... or would anyone notice? I think overall I would have less of a problem fitting the wood than trying to correct a noticeable transition that is visible on the ricasso or at the plunge line because I like to hollow grind and it might show. I think I like your first rational better. Thanks, Larry

 

[james terrio]

Bringing the taper right up to the plunge line prevents any fitment problems.

 

[StuNY]

Very helpful thread guys, thanks! Just finished a tapered tang last week with a tiny gap appearing at the front of the scales because I couldn't figure out exactly where to stop the taper- has been driving me crazy! Like the idea of taking it all the way to the plunge line.

 

[Don Hanson III]

I've always run the tapper up past the bolsters, or front of handle.