Originally Posted by
stoneandstrop
Not sure I have the same opinion.
Whether an oversize hole is completely filled with epoxy and knot or a snug knot glued only on the bottom - the handle will subjected to the same stress, maybe more so if its mostly epoxy.
For a handle to split because of the fit it would indicate a movement of the base material (wood) mainly being the issue.
Properly stabilized is a must.
I have never had a handle fail and I have made plenty. I don't mean ordering handles and knots then just gluing them in. That is not making a handle that is assembling a handle:)
Yes, many retailers do suggest the size as they want the knot to fit with no fitting of the handle required, hence more of a drop in fit for simplicity.