Determine the thickness of the tang. Mine is 3/16". Select a drill bit slightly smaller than that size (in my case, 11/64"). Mark the line using the drill bit as a guide...you're marking where the drill holes will fall. Dimple the centers of these marks with a punch or a nail, then drill pilot holes with a tiny bit.
Now use the larger bit.
Start with a small round file to establish a rectangular slot, then finish with a small flat bastard file. Take it very slow and try-fit often or you'l remove too much stock. Ideally the bolster should fit tightly enough to require careful tapping to seat it. Here's what it looks like when done.
Next...the woodwork.
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