I'd say it's around 2". The handle that came on it was solid molded "plastic?" and fit very nicely in the hand. Carried it as a back-up blade while in the military.

Yeah, a bevel would work. Anything to avoid sharp angles. The slight curve of the antler and the jibbing on top of the blade should give good grip.

This antler also has a small single point coming off of it that I hope will fall right around where my pointer finger will meet the antler to offer a little more grip. If that works out it will be sweet.