The actual dome of the boss is much smaller than in the photo. Needed for props in a wedding fast or I would have exchanged it with a bigger one. Since the dome is small I had to sand down my handle more than I wanted to be able to get my hand to fit in the boss. If you have large hands, go with a bigger boss. Other than the size of the dome it is thick and seems pretty sturdy. I hit them with hammers and a few bladed weapons once they were on the shields to give them some battle wear, very strong and seem as if they can take a decent blow. But again if I was to replace them I would go with the 7.5 boss. This boss is for small shield maiden hands. If I could post a photo of the shields I would. They were made for props but would take a good beating!