I have read that all you need to do is drill out the tubing w/ 1/4" drill bit, then slide off handle. I read a lot of things online that may or may not be true, so I am hoping to get some confirmation on this.

I do not believe the size of the tang will be much issue as I can wrap as many layers as needed and I don't have very large hands anyways. Maybe it doesn't work so well, but I will likely end up trying anyways.