My knife is about 13-14 in overall, the blade is about 9 in. The knife started as a 1/4 in leaf spring. As far as mounting the handle, I drilled the tang (full) with 2 1/8 in holes and then cut a welding rod into little pins and rounded them off. The pins don't go through but there are hidden and then the whole thing is epoxied in place overnight and then shaped and sealed over night. There is no stain on the wood, Just clear urethane. I think it is cherry wood. I thought it would stand out. I am working on another knife. Any other questions guys?