Yep, i figured the hilt was probably wood. Looks like it is a good example of that form though.
To answer your other question, if i were you i would feel free to add abit more cloth or yarn to stablize the hilt. Unfortunately, over time tangs often break or are foreshortened, making keeping the hilt in place even more difficult. Be careful to add material slowly to the tang. You want the hilt to stay in place, but to don't want to crack the wood.
