This is by no means my original idea. Several others here on the forum have mentioned it and shown it in use…I just wanted to document it and add it to the forum for people to be able to find in the future because it really is pretty cool.
Found mine on amazon but also have seen similar on ebay:
It will of course come down to personal preference. I can say these rc car boots are thinner material and quite soft n flexible. More so then they appeared.
Update: After cutting a small notch in the side and installing the boots I can report they swing and move free of any resistance. I sharpened a few knives last night and didnt even notice they were there.
For the cost of approximately $10 I would say this minor mod is a major upgrade both to form and function of the system. It certainly beats by a mile the cut off tip of a rubber glove(that also worked just fine).
Shown below is my current complete WE system with most if not all of the mods visible…Double riser block, tormek small knife jig, extended length rods, micro adjust knobs, front rail for extremely low angles, ball joint for support mount(rarely use), and the new excellent ball joint dust covers.