attaching bolsters on a full tang

[titaniumdoctor]

How do you attach a two piece bolster on a full tang blade without screws showing? Are they pinned with like material, or are there hidden screws somewhere?

Thanks

[Jamey Saunders]

Pinning with like material is the generally accepted way. If you're using damascus, however, the job becomes harder, since pins will show when you etch the damascus. For those cases, hidden pins are the way to go. I know that hidden pins have been discussed, so a quick search will take you to those posts.

You're on the right track, though.

[george tichbour]

Most are pinned and peened but the problem usually is getting rid of the gap between the bolster and the tang. This requires careful lapping of the bolster on a flat surface before and after drilling the pin holes.

Some makers also solder the bolsters in place after pinning them, this is difficult to get right however.

[SteveS]

More and more I'm a fan of peening bolsters on. More and more and more and more..... My last hidden pin adventure I used 2 pins and 2 threaded holes with hidden bolts. Still peening is much more secure.

I'd like to solder them on after peening - I need to learn that one. For now after peening I use locktite to seal them.

Steve