Thanks guys, 3 responses, and 3 different approaches...LOL My customer just asked to have it 6" longer than the standard 12", so I am making it so it can break down into 2 pieces, mainly due to pool case restrictions. Going with a taper, and a .850 joint dia.
Hoping to finish it in the next couple days, when I do I will post pics.
Thanks again,
Dave
Here's one from several years ago with a 6 inch ebony extension for longer jumps and a 12" handle for shorter jumps. The thumb grooves are made easily with a round bottom(round nose) bit.
The bit is used in the router held on the cross slide. While the handle or piece is spinning you cut the grooves by running the bit straight into the piece to desired depth, width is a result of how wide a bit you use.
The smaller grooves were cut using a parting tool to desired depth.