1 of 16
Very impressed with this Parang, unlike other products from stamped metal or machined that have no soul, this is a traditionally forged blade that has differential tempering, some parts are harder, some softer. This brings me to the question of, “can the blade be sharpened further towards the handle”. Out of the 10” of blade, only about 5” is actually sharp. According to an answer to this written by the company representative, no, the blunt part of the blade, towards the handle is not hardened. It is blunt so you can choke up on it for more controlled cutting or carving. This actually makes sense as when holding it in that position, it is at the centre of balance.
The blade came shaving sharp, although I gave it a light stropping with some stropping compound. The parang is really well put together and is finished off very neatly with some epoxy to seal where the blade enters the handle. The blade shows the forging processes, it doesn’t have a highly polished finish, but I think that is part of its charm, it is after all, a tool, not a wall ornament. Where it matters is done neatly, like the epoxy which strengthens the blade to handle and prevents moisture from getting in and weakening the tang with rust. The handle is neatly finished with no rough spots and feels comfortable, I like the swell which means it won’t fly out of your hand if it gets sweaty or wet. I’ve tried a bit of light chopping with it and it performs superbly, it really goes deep but doesn’t get stuck. I’ve got mine for bushcraft instead of an axe, and for roughing out spoons etc, also for gardening-brambles and cutting back a Buddleia tree. I was actually wanting the 12” version, but having used this, I think it is better suited for my purposes. Thank you for another excellent transaction with swift postage!
Matthew
16th May, 2023Rated: 5/5