If I remember correctly, I started with 1 1/4 of thickness. My grip and thickest part of the blade are the same. http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g108/briarjumper12/waster2.jpg http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g108/briarjumper12/DSC_0178.jpg http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g108/briarjumper12/DSC...