Are you going to run the hidden tang all the way through Hunter? It's what I did to attach the pommel tapped 1/4-20, but it was relatively easy since I forged the knife.
Heck if l was using an oven l'd make it out of O1, but you have to use what you have.
l don't think you'll find a 10" blade very utilitarian though. l carried a Western Bowie knife in the Army and it wasn't good for much except fighting and chopping wood, tried skinning a rabbit with it and borrowed a pocket knife, going what was l thinking?
l understand the desire to make a big Bowie though, but l might try an 8" blade first, l didn't just up and make a 12" blade without some prior experience first. As for the distal taper, it takes practice and you might want to consider a false upper edge to reduce some weight as well. Play to your strengths on a new project like this.