Aluminum for bolsters ?

[P.K.Hansen]

I have a hard time finding nickelsilver over here, so I've been thinking about using aluminum on a few huntingknives.
What is your experience ? Too soft or hard enough for a small hunter that will never see really hard work/abuse ?

 

[mikeS]

they have been using it for years, was all the rage in the '50's

I dunno how the public views it now though.

My personal favorite is copper/nickel or aluminum bronze.

Copper nickel is little softer but it sure has a nice color when polished.

 

[Bart student]

I've done it before.. it's OK if your customer can stand that it may get a scratch. Personally I think Titanium ( for the anodizing colors) or Stainless steel (nice polish and relatively hard) are a better choice.

On the bright side.. it works extremely easy and is probably the fastest way to make a decent guard, since I usually spend half a day filing and fitting a Stainless or bronze guard.

Greetz and take care, Bart.

 

[L6steel]

PK, have you tried 416 stainless? It works real easy and finishes out fine. I love hitting it with a fine scotchbrite belt and leaving a nice satin finish on it but it also buffs up nicely too.