I am no good at making my own designs. Never have been. I see something I like and make it. I modify it as I go if I want. People tell me if they like or dislike something and I try to modify it if I can. Sometimes it works, sometime not.
I just made one of A2. I still have to get it hardened with the next batch of blades, but I am doing it for the same reasons as you. I hope it helps my guards too.
I just sent Woodlab 10# of assorted wood. This is my second order with them and I was very happy the first time. I tried doing myself once. It is not worth it.
the first one I finished it with super glue because I was concerned about splinters. It worked great. After that I had some stabilized and liked that better.