Glad it arrived. Pretty amazing that you got it today. I sent it Wed. Two days from CA to GA, not bad at all.

When my letter carrier showed up today with a long box, I knew what it was. She said, "More work?". I told her no, it was a sword for me. She laughed and told me to enjoy it. She is accustomed to bringing me knives for sharpening. She is a sweet lady and obviously unaware of the grave zombie threat facing our nation. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif" alt="" />

Good score on the Northwind Vic.

I love mine.

I am surprised Ted sold. I thought he was a big fan.

What's the deal. Did he have two?

You bet I had two. I'd never sell my last one. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

I would think the Northwind will outchop the Waki as they come from the factory. My AK could not compare until Ban worked his magic on it. The Northwind is still better at draw cuts though.

This makes sense. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

This does to.

People think choppers need obtuse edges. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

.... maybe if chopping cinder blocks. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" /> But, convex "Sharp" edge cut smoother and deeper on wood, meat, food and similar "normal" knife use materials. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

Sure, if the edge profile gets too thin, even on wood, it will be more prone to roll, ding or chip. But, with the excellent quality steel being used by Busse and kin. The benefits of the improved cutting outweigh the slightly more dings from heavy chopping - IMO. But, really, if chopping wood, Busse and kin steels hold up VERY well. Thin convex might not be best for cinder blocks though. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" />

In all fairness, the factory edges keep improving. My S5's were honestly just so-so. But, my Waki's and M9's were pretty darn good - for non-convexed edges. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Still, if the Waki has a Northwind type edge, it would be "different".

To be "Fair", I think a comparison of the Northwind vs. Waki should be compared with "Factory" edge first. Then put a good edge on the Waki and re-test it on as close to same tests to "Re"-compare the results of the NEW Waki to the old Waki and the Northwind. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

Aside from edges, the Northwind handles and feels different in the hand with more forward balance.

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Yep. The Northwind would have beaten the Waki for certain with factory edges. The Northwind is much more chopper or machete-like. But the extra weight and length of the Waki, along with a convexed edge makes it able to deliver a little more power in the chop when held at the rear of the handle. Increased blade speed, more weight, and comparable edges give my Waki a slight advantage over my Northwind in pure chopping power. Still, the Northwind is much more natural to use as a chopper or machete. It just handles better.

Cool buy! I wish I was into knives when these were out! I heard they went for sweet prices as they wound down...They are $$$ on the 2ry market now!

But, I did get my Condo Combat Machete a couple days ago...You were right Vic- looks like a tough little gladius!