You can definitely get by without Permafrost. If you're planning on IOs, Hoarfrost works fine with the Steadfast unique and five from Doctored Wounds.
On my Ice/Axe I built up enough global +recharge to build an attack chain without using Chop and Whirling Axe. I am happy with my AoE damage from Icicles, procs in Chilling Embrace, Pendulum, and a properly lined up Beheader. I also didn't take a single ancillary power to avoid as much weapon redraw as I could.
I did take Hibernate, but it's very rare that I need to use it.
I made an eyeballed build last night, Wound up ditching chopped and Permafrost. I kept whirling axe, and wound up taking Arctic Mastery. Not exactly what configuration you used, but I'm assuming it has to do with the fighting pool and Hasten. Thanks for the info! As always, any info anyone can give is appreciated!
"Iron defenses and a crappy attitude do not, a tanker, make."
Proud Leader and founder of The Gangbusters Super Group and The Madhouse Villain Group: Ask me about becoming a member!
While trying to lay the foundation of a build for my newly-made Ice/Axe tanker, I find that I can't really identify any stinkers in either set for the purpose of skipping. Maybe Hibernate or Permafrost could be skipped, Except that Hibernate makes for a great panic button. Maybe Chop, I'm not sure.
If anyone out there has played this build and acn give me some insight into what works and what doesn't with this particular build, I'd be grateful.
"Iron defenses and a crappy attitude do not, a tanker, make."
Proud Leader and founder of The Gangbusters Super Group and The Madhouse Villain Group: Ask me about becoming a member!