It is really hard to think out of the box when it comes to altering the dimensions of a striker. To me making a shaft larger then the 5/16" diameter is asking for dead wood. But, the added length may have compensated for that, who knows, never used one, I have turned strikers with a smaller diameter which in turn changed the vibrato of the stick, but when it comes down to it, you'll be best to get one and try it yourself.