From what I understand a thicker knife is not always better. For chopping and similar tasks, maybe a thicker knife would have an advantage because it would be heavier; but the amount of chopping ability a blade has kind of depends on the edge geometry too. A thick knife with an obtuse edge will not chop as good as a thinner knife with a more acute edge. Put it this way, the SOD will be plenty strong and I have no problem with it being 1/4" thick. There ain't much to gain except extra weight by adding more steel. The SOD is going to be a beast!!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />