On Tuesday, June 24, 2014 12:25:21 PM UTC+10, pltrgyst wrote:
> On 6/23/14, 4:21 PM, Timo wrote:
>
> > So, as you say, not a big deal. If it was, maybe they'd have stopped
> > doing it, since there's very little benefit in such a full width
> > bolster. The only benefit is to provide a wider surface for the
> > finger to sit against if you hold it in such a way that the finger is
> > up against the base of the blade....
>
> Or if you're one of those who chop with thumb and index finger on
> opposite sides of the blade, above the bolster.

Hmm. I find a full-width bolster gets in the way of a pinch grip. Not so much that punch grip can't be used, but enough so that it's less comfortable. I like traditional Japanese handles (wa handles) best for punch grip, then modern Japanese handles and traditional Chinese handles.