I have had that design idea in my head for years. Great minds think alike and im glad to see it come to fruition.
I had the additional idea of leaving enough material to taper into the hilt and counterboring and I.D. chamfering the end for a slight recess for the cap. And deeper finger grooves with no break through and slight palm swell. It would result in a fater than usual handle but I always thought it would look great. I just never attempted it.
Good job!