Winged Griffin Axe

OK, so this is mostly positive, but I have a few concerns.  First, both blades and the tip are welded to what feels (and sounds) like a hollow, steel shaft.  It also looks like the blades are sharp, but that's not the case.  They did get it started though, so with a lotta elbow grease, I was able to put a decent enough edge on it. The blades are definitely carbon steel, so it took some work!
Not sure how the grip is fastened to the shaft, but it's also steel.  It appears to slide up onto the shaft and is secured somehow, but I can't tell if it's welded or screwed in place.  
As far as the grip goes, I doubt the suede will hold up very long.  The more you swing the axe, the more the strands tend to roll under the fingers.  I always re-wrap or modify my grips anyway (axes, swords, guns, whatever), so no big deal there.  All in all, it's a nice little piece.  The blade and tip welds are very clean, well done, and symetric.  It got to me quick, and I made short work of a large pumpkin even before I put an edge on it.  I haven't tried hitting anything harder with it though.  This will make a nice display piece, although I can see myself goin medieval on the occasional enemy pumpkin or mellon when the mood strikes me!