Side plate question

[Tim Ault]

So I’m about to make my first side plate I’ve always bought them in the past and was wondering if it’s better looking to leave a small reveal around the diameter of the lock bolt head or make it the same 3/8”dia  as the bolt head?  I was leaning towards making that radius .425” ish but I’d like to hear what would look more appealing to the eye

Thanks Tim

[Jim Kibler]

I would study originals and see what they did.

[Tim Ault]

Understood but is difficult seeing such a small  detail in most picture on here or in books  just looking for advice from those that have more knowledge than I do

[Daniel Coats]

Much easier to build one with a reveal and have it look good. Otherwise it will need to match exactly.

[Tim Ault]

I’d be cutting it out on a water jet so I can get it exact if need be 

[Daniel Coats]

Ok then you still have the hole tolerance to consider. The lockbolt will probably not be perfectly centered. Maybe it won't matter but I would still leave the reveal if it was me

[Tim Ault]

Thanks Dan  a I’ll leave the reveal and can tweak it if need be by hand

[t.caster]

I don't think I have seen many without a reveal, if any at all.

[Clark Badgett]

Am I misunderstanding about something or are you talking about the counterbored area around the bolt holes?

[Dphariss]

I would study originals and see what they did.

Thank you Mr Kibler.