Traditionally, when held one-handed, where would the hand grip the handle.... Towards the pommel end or near to the ferrule (blade) ?
I would have thought the positioning of the hand would also affect the vibration felt.
Instinctively, I grip near to the ferrule end .....so effectively my hand is around the tang as I feel that this is the safest placement to prevent the force of the strike ripping the tang through the rattan handle....maybe I'm being 'over cautious'
Regards David