I do not think you`ll have to lengthen the tang if you do not mind the last 3/4 length of the handle being the same material. I have done a few blades with short tangs, and while they aren`t works of art they are holding with no problems. I find it easiest and fastest to baton the handle off with an old knife. Then when you have the blade you can follow any stick-tang handling method.
As for handle materials: pretty much any dry hard wood is good. Old furniture people throw out can be a nice source. If you use wood you forage yourself, hust make sure it is seasoned before you use it. Wet wood will shrink around the steel and likely split. If you split your wood into small bits seasoning will not take so long. Spacers can be made out of many different things as well. I have used coins and plastic from an old lunchbox. Also leather from worn-out belts (although personally I have trouble getting the leather spacers flush with the handle, but that may just be my inadequacy).
) attempt at making a knife handle(my first attempt is the holly one on the top knife) I used a piece of ash with antler ends. I fitted a copper disc where the handle meets the blade as the antler was a bit scruffy and some old leather from a pair of site boots in between each section. I had all the bits laying around as I'm a bit of a hoarder so its not brilliant cosmetically . Basically a walk in the woods should provide you with something to work with .
... Seriously though I really appreciate your reply .Your second attempt is exactly the result I am hoping for! I really take my hat off to you for your first effort as I have made a few walking sticks from holly, so I know from experiance that holly is a blooming tough wood to work with. I have started a prototype / practise handle on another hultafors blade I had attempted to mod (not great but hey ho).I think my main prob is gonna be lengthening the tang as I dont have access to a welder.
