What is a bolster?

It's the raised thick part between the blade and the handle, which usually distinguishes the knife as fully forged.

The bolster acts as a guard providing safety, balance, sturdiness, and comfort.

Beware of companies that manufacture knives with an imitation bolster as these knives are invariably poorer in quality compared to a "one piece fully forged" knife.

Read more glossary terms in our Education Section.