Himalayan Imports WWII - Rookie Field Test

M

mcatalfano

Joined
Dec 22, 2013
Messages
45
Topped 40 degrees today, and sunny, so I was finally able to get outside with my new HI WWII (photos below).

Really starting from scratch. I have read a bit about technique, but have none, so I learned a good amount. First lesson, strike at an angle - perpendicular chops were bouncing right off. Second lesson, rawhide gloves lead to turning blade. Fortunately, no injuries, as I was taking things slow. You can also tell from the last photo, I was not hitting on the sweet spot.

I will say this, the WWII is a beast. No miracle stories here, from a rookie chopper on frozen logs, but when I struck correctly, the blade bit deep. Good angle, sweet spot, was taking a 3/4 inch bite. Was swinging about 25% strength, using some whip motion where possible.

First couple logs took some time, as I learned the blade and the angles. I moved on, found a rhythm, and was taking a half-dozen serious chops, flipping the log, and cleaving in one stroke on some 1.5"-2" oak logs.

Really excited about this knife. I have some experience splitting logs, and using an old Eastwing hatchet. This is not a full size axe, but is neck and neck with any hatchet out there. Very happy with the purchase, the customer service and the product.

Did I mention that this thing is gorgeous?
 
Last edited:
18 inches and 32ounces, by Rajkumar. No changes or usage since arrival:



Spine measures 1/2 inch:

 
Last edited:
Both logs from trees felled in Oct/Nov, and frozen solid. First was about 2" thick, believe it was oak:




Second one was roughly 3.5" thick, maple:




Last shot of the blade - stopped taking pictures, but spent another 20 minutes or so chopping:
 
Last edited:
Damm you Sir now I need one. The WWII is a brute and will serve you well, I had one years ago and like a dummy I sold it now I want one again.
 
Let the choppin' begin! I want one now too................I think I'm hooked on khuks and it's all your guys' fault.
 
There's a bit of technique involved in getting the efficiency out of a khuk and it sounds like you the technique down. As you use it, you'll refine it and really appreciate the design. I also learned that gloves and khuks rarely work together. I highly recommend the 16.5" model at 25 oz. or less. It's much handier than the beast you've got, but will shock you with it's capabilities! Try to grab a DOTD and check it out. Be safe.
 
Nice review and thanks for the pics. WWII has a nice shape to it. More front heavy than I thought. Great for chopping as you can attest now.
Rajkumar is so good with that horn and yours is no exception. The WWII handle looks longer than most choppers or maybe just my eyes? It looks just like my Hanshee.
I have had a few of them Eastwings and they feel really good and have good geometry but the problem i had with them is they are braised on to tubing and they eventually bend at the weld. Had two of them do that but they were great light-medium choppers. If your able to replace them with a WWII then you did excellent! I need to look into getting one of them WWII's:D
 
WWII kukris by HI do run long in the handle. I think it's the most versatile blade in their lineup. My favorite camp blade is a horn handled 16.5" 23oz WWII by Kumar.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top