The thickness is kind a uniform:
- 6mm at the hilt
- 5mm at the first 1/3
- 4mm at the second third
- 3mm is max
- again 4mm near the tip
Yes the wrapping is cord.
Tim, yours is verry similar, at least the wrapping, to one in my possesion wich is touristic piece I think. It has nothing to do compared with the other one in quality. pls refer to the fotos 2 and 3.
Ian, beautifull pieces!
I like thoose.
Another thing that I've forgot to mention. all the materials of the hilt seems old to me and the clear ratan binding was painted reddish brown sometime, there is still some little pieces of the laquer falling from it.