how many bolster pins?

[Travis Fry]

When pinning (and peening) metal bolsters (I usually use stainless, copper, or brass) I've been using 3 pins, but sometimes I use 2. 2 is easier because I've got more hammer clearance (big hammer+big fingers+small bolster area= bad), but for some reason 3 seems better. I guess I'd rather use 2 unless there is a good reason to use more. How many do you pros use and why? Does the number vary with knife size or bolster material?

 

[LRB]

Depending on size, two is enough for the average. Three is stronger, but is probably overkill. I use three on this type because of the size. Two in line behind that front bevel, then a third mid-tang a little short of the grips.

 

[mike miller]

I use two BUT I also make sure to use a pair of needle nose pliers to hold the bolster in place when peening. I used a pin press in a demo Saturday with the pliers just to insure that you don't have a shift when you squeeze them.

 

[John Barker]

I always use three. It just seems to pull them down more evenly and I get more consistent results.
-John

 

[BossDog]

I started with 3, went to 2 but with the pin press I am getting some that move on occasion so I am going back to 3.