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Whether you are clearing out your yard, a fence row on the family farm, or heading to the jungle for the adventure of a lifetime a machete is a great knife to have. The machete will make quick work of brush and unsightly weeds in your yard or chop down small trees and other nuisance things growing in your fence row on the farm.
If you are headed off on an African safari only the best machete will do, your life may depend on it! The jungle is full of dangers that a machete can make quick work of and save your life at the same time.
Qualities Of A Good Machete
Let's take a look at the differences between machetes and hatchets. If you are new to knives or need help knowing which one is right for your needs then keep reading. Machete blades differ from pocket knives in blade style, and length, and the razor-sharp machete blade doesn't usually have a pointed tip.
The word machete means "A machete is a broad blade used either as an agricultural implement similar to an axe, or in combat like a long-bladed knife."
Machetes are large knives with broad blades that can be used for combat purposes, chopping weeds, and thick branches, and with enough swinging power even to chop wood.
A smartly designed machete is a multi-purpose tool that is a large knife with a razor-sharp blade, and the best machete is at home cutting thick vegetation, tall grasses, or chopping small branches with ease proving that you have the right tool for the job!
They're different from hatchets, which have smaller heads and handle designs meant specifically for woodworking tasks like chopping down trees. A lightweight machete is much easier to use clearing brush than a shorter blade, it has a lanyard hole to keep it closely attached to a belt loop.
Common Uses For A Machete
Clearing paths or trails
Camping - creating campsites, creating shelter materials
Clearing brush - tree branches
Self-defense - animals, combat
Food preparation - cutting, slicing, and splitting hard-to-open nuts
Agriculture - harvesting crops
Survival - providing for yourself in a survival situation
How To Choose A Machete
First, you need to decide your main purpose for the machete, whether it's going to be a basic tool or a combat tool. Then you can look at the different things about the machete that make them wonderful knives and decide what style is right for you.
Blade Steel
The material affects how a knife will be used. For example, carbon steel blades are more robust and inexpensive and hold edge retention better while they are prone to rust that can be compensated for with oil or a coat of some kind stainless steel resists corrosion well but has less edge retention and they're also costlier than their counterparts made from higher-quality alloys like high carbon steel and resist chipping.
Blade Length
The type of work you plan on doing will determine the length of your blade. For example, shorter blades are more practical if it's lighter tasks while longer blades offer heavy-duty cutting power and flexibility in all kinds of projects.
Type Of Handle
Machetes come with a wide range of handles, but the most important thing to consider when choosing which one you want for your task is how much weight it can add, a nice handle will make a beautiful machete but possibly at a cost of added weight.
There are many different materials used in making most machetes and some offer a more secure grip or feel than others while still a secure grip providing enough power to cut through tough dense vegetation without too much trouble.
The best machete or an affordable machete still requires a proper handle to cut dense vegetation and tree branches while clearing brush and these common features to be good cutting tools.
Micarta – The most durable choice with a higher price tag
Molded Plastic – Inexpensive with easy maintenance, but can become slippery or break or discolor over time
Wooden – Wooden handle is lightweight with a solid grip yet more costly and more prone to cracking
Leather – Offers a firm grip at a more expensive price
Rubber – Easily worn option that offers a comfortable grip
Strength And Durability
Whatever machete you choose needs to be tough. After all, it'll get a lot of use cutting through objects, and if your blade isn’t strong enough then there is no point in buying one because they won't last very long.
It's important not only to find something durable but also affordable as well for your particular situation of usage and budget.
Types of Machetes
Bush machete: cut most vegetation.
Cane machete – cut bamboo; sugar cane.
Parang machete – chop woody vegetation; break coconuts.
Barong machete – hunting.
Bolo machete – chop woody vegetation; break coconuts.
Colima machete – clear bush and vines.
Bowie machete – hunting.
Best Budget Machetes
Tramontina 14" Machete with Carbon Steel Blade and Wood Handle
The Tramontina 14-inch machete with carbon steel blade and wood handle is a great tool to have when you're cutting through brush or cleaning tall grass. It features tough, durable construction that can take whatever your work environment throws at it! This item also has an ergonomic shape for easy handling so there's no difficulty in doing what needs to be done.
Blade Length: 14 Inches
Handle Material: Wood
Blade Material: Carbon Steel
Item Weight: 0.2 Kilograms
Tramontina 24" Machete with Textured Black Plastic Handle
The Tramontina machete in the 24-inch has a blade made of carbon steel and a polypropylene handle with aluminum rivets. This tool will make your work easier when cutting through brush or tall grass because it's durable and strong enough for any task you throw at them!
Handle Material: Plastic Handle
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 29.5 x 2.38 x 0.88 inches
Best Bolo Machetes
Gerber Gear Gator Bolo Machete 22 Inch
The updated Bolo is a modern interpretation of the classic machete. Its ergonomic handle shape, full tang construction, and slip-proof grip offer smart design upgrades that make this tool both efficient for business as well as aesthetically pleasing in your outdoor adventure attire!
Overall length:22.5 Inches
Blade Length: 15.5 Inches
Tramontina Bolo Machete
Tramontina machetes are high-quality tools that will last for years. The handle of the machete has been designed to allow you increased grip in any situation and it can be used as an everyday tool or during more intensive jobs, such as coconuts splitting and yard work where greater power is needed.
A Trammuators Brazilian Jurelia PSF Blade Machete features a tough steel blade with precise sharpening so it's durable enough for anything from trimming back weeds on your patio all way up to removing large branches off trees near power lines - whatever task comes along!
Blade Length: 19.5 Inches
Handle Material: Wood
Blade Material: Carbon Steel
Item Weight: 0.2 Kilograms
Best Machetes Under $50
Ontario Knife Co 1-18" Military Machete
The all-steel 1-18 Ontario military machete has been made by the Ontario Knife Company under government specifications for 60 years. This sturdy, full tang blade features a zinc phosphate finish and Rockwell Hardness of 50 to 55 on average with an edge that's ground flat or slightly convex making it perfect for chopping wood like firewood without worrying about chipping your tools away because they're so sharp!
Overall length: is 24"
Blade material: 1095 Carbon Steel
Blade hardness: 50-55 HRc
Handle: Molded plastic and riveted handle
Blade length: 18"
Overall length: 24-Inch
Kilimanjaro BM21 Black 21-Inch Machete
The 14.2-inch blade with a combination of fine edge & saw back is finished with a straight back style tip for added strength, constructed of rugged 3Cr13MoV stainless that's been treated to be immune from rusting or tarnishing over time due to its high-quality material composition which also makes it easy-to-use even when wet since moisture won't conduct electricity like other metals would so you can keep using your knife no matter how much sweat happens!
Fine edge with serrated back
Rubberized economic handle
Adjustable paracord lanyard
Reinforced nylon sheath
Best Survival Machete
Cold Steel 97TMSTS Machete, All Terrain Chopper w/Sheath
The Cold Steel Machete is a perfect tool for survival and bushcraft. Made of tough 16-inch 1055 steel blade with an anti-rust matte finish, this machete offers incredible strength to cut through vines as well saplings in addition to brush or small trees when needed!
The sharp steel blade offers plenty of versatility so that you are prepared no matter what your situation may be; whether it's building shelter while camping out at night during wintertime. The Cor-Ex Sheath for added safety during storage and while carrying the Cold Steel Jungle Machete!
Handle length: 6 in
Blade thickness: 2. 8 mm
Weight: 22. 8 oz
Steel: 1055 Carbon Steel w/ Black Baked Anti Rust Matte Finish
Best Japanese Machete
Barebones Japanese NATA Tool - Machete
When you need to cut firewood, nothing beats a good ol' fashioned Japanese machete. With its sleek design and hard steel blade, it's no wonder this tool has been around since before World War II!
We've taken the best features from our traditional counterparts while adding some new tricks up their sleeves so they can stay relevant in today’s modern world - like having multiple handles on one head or creating an extendable handle with sturdy bashes that keep things secure when swinging during high-speed cuts without worrying about safety catches releasing unexpectedly (not happening). Versatile: clear brush, strip bark, plank wood, chop kindling
Durable: solid, stainless-steel core extends through the length of the handle
Portable: thin and light, convenient to carry, easy to handle
Single-edge blade: easily cuts through the brush with a 12" easy-to-sharpen blade
Best Machete Under $100
Condor Tool & Knife, El Salvador Machete
Inspired by the hardworking people of El Salvador, a country famous for its agriculture and strong labor force. In addition to being surrounded by beautiful landscapes where fertile soil can grow.
This robust knife is made out of high carbon steel with elastic properties and an excellent edge; you're sure not only make your work easier but get better results too Machete is perfect when hacking through tough vegetation.
Best Slant Tip Machete
Cold Steel Slant Tip Machete
You won't find a more powerful or versatile machete than the Cold Steel Slant Tip Machete. It has a European-style slanted tip that packs explosive performance, combining precision cutting with a weight-forward head and Heavy chopping power - all while being ergonomic polypropylene handle makes it comfortable to use in any environment!
The 2 sizes are perfect for tackling everything from the heavy brush like trees down on your property (21blades)to lighter duty tasks such as clearing land morally infested by invasive species without worrying about harming sensitive plants around them because they're designed specifically. And it comes with a Durable Cur-Ex Sheath.
Blade Length: 18 Inch
Thickness: 2mm
Best Golok Machete
Condor Tool & Knife, Condor Golok Machete, 14in Blade, Walnut Handle with Sheath
The Condor Golok Machete is an excellent choice with a 14-inch blade, its unique shape allows it to chop wood with the finest machetes and still be one of the best survival machetes available. The leather sheaths belt loop lets you keep it close at hand or you can store it with a survival kit.
Blade Length: 14″
Overall Length: 19″
Handle: Walnut
Blade: 1075 high carbon steel blade with black powder epoxy finish
Sheath: 100% leather sheath
Best Overall Machete
KA1248-BRK Machete Cutlass
The KA-BAR Cutlass machete is a heavy-duty machete that is an essential tool for any outdoorsman or bushcrafter. The 1085 high carbon blade has the durability to cut through thick brush with ease, while also being sharp enough to hold its own in most kitchen tasks that require some light hacking work like prying apart stubborn boards on your decking fence before painting them over again!
It features an ergonomic handle design made from Kraton G thermoplastic elastomer which guarantees no slippage during use; this means you won't have trouble keeping control even if there's sweat built up due to exertion levels and it comes with a black leather/Cordura combination sheath.
Blade: 11 inches
Edge: Angle 20 degrees
Sheath: Includes leather/Cordura combination sheath
Weight: 1.12 pounds
FAQs
What is the best military machete?
There is no one "best" military machete. Different people might prefer different machete designs for different purposes.
Some of the most common types of military machetes include the combat machete, the hiking machete, and the bushcraft machete.
The combat machete is typically heavier and more robust than other types of machetes, making it well-suited for use in hand-to-hand fighting.
The hiking machete is lighter and more streamlined, making it better suited for use while hiking or camping. And the bushcraft machete is a versatile all-arounder that can be used for a variety of purposes including chopping wood and clearing brush-covered areas.
What machete does the army use?
There is no one "army machete." In fact, there are many different types of machetes that can be used for different purposes. The best machete for any given job will depend on the specific task at hand.
Who makes good machetes?
There is no definitive answer to this question as different people have different opinions on what the best machete is. However, some of the most popular types of machetes include the combat machete and the type of machete.
The best machete for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Make sure to do your research before purchasing economical machetes so that you can be sure to get a great machete that will meet your needs.
What is the best length for a machete?
There is no one "best" length for a traditional machete. It really depends on the type of machete and its intended use. For example, a combat machete might be best at 18-24 inches, while bushcraft or agricultural machetes might be better at 24-36 inches.
Which machete is best for self-defense?
There are a lot of different types of machetes out there, so it really depends on what you're looking for in terms of self-defense. If you're looking for a machete that can do some serious damage, then you'll want to look for a combat machete with gear straps. These machetes are designed for use in hand-to-hand combat, and they can definitely inflict some serious injuries. Machetes are used for self-defense most commonly in South America.
Are machetes good for combat?
Machete is frequently used as a weapon in close combat. In fact, they're considered one of the most effective melee weapons available. When it comes to close-quarters combat, machetes have a few advantages over other types of melee weapons.
First, they're incredibly versatile. A machete can be used for hacking, slashing, and thrusting – making it a very dangerous weapon in the right hands.
Second, machetes are relatively lightweight and easy to wield, which makes them perfect for close-quarters combat.
Third, machetes are relatively cheap and easy to obtain – making them a popular choice for militaries and law enforcement agencies around the world.
What's the best steel for a machete?
There is no single "best" steel for a machete. It depends on the intended use of the machete. For example, a combat machete would need to be made from harder steel than a gardening machete.
Some of the most popular types of steel used for machetes include carbon steel, stainless steel, and high-carbon stainless steel. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Carbon steel is strong and durable, but it can rust if not properly maintained. Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant, but it is not as strong as carbon steel. High-carbon stainless steel combines the best of both worlds, with strength and durability that rivals carbon steel while also being corrosion resistant.
Are machetes good for stabbing?
It depends on the type of machete. Most machetes are not designed for stabbing and will not hold up well if used for this purpose.
A combat machete is a type of machete that is designed specifically for stabbing. It has a pointed end and a thicker blade that is better suited for piercing through tough materials.
If you are looking for a good machete to use for stabbing, I would recommend the combat machete.
At what point does a knife become a machete?
A knife becomes a machete when it is used as a cutting tool in close-quarters combat. A machete is a large, broad-bladed knife that is used to hack through vegetation or for self-defense.
Machetes are available in many different sizes, shapes, and edge types. The best machete for you depends on how you plan to use it. If you need a machete for survival purposes, choose one with a serrated edge. For chopping through a thick brush, go with a heavier blade. If you anticipate using your machete in close combat situations, opt for a lighter-weight blade that will allow you to move more quickly and strike with precision.
Can you cut down a tree with a machete?
Yes, you can cut down a tree with a machete. However, there are certain types of machetes that are better suited for this task than others. The best machetes for cutting down trees and chopping wood are typically the combat machetes or those designed for agricultural use.
These machetes tend to be longer and have heavier blades that can more easily hack through tree branches and trunk wood. When choosing a machete for cutting down trees and chopping wood, be sure to select one that is the right size and weight for your body type and strength. Additionally, make sure the blade is sharpened properly before beginning to cut.
What is a combat machete?
A combat machete is a type of machete that is designed for military use. It is typically longer and thicker than a standard machete, and it has a more robust blade that can withstand heavier use.
There are a number of different types of machetes, but the combat machete is one of the best machete. It can be used for a variety of tasks, from clearing brush to chopping wood. And because it is designed for military use, it is also strong enough to be used as a weapon in close combat situations.
How sharp is a machete?
There are a variety of machete types, but the most common one is the combat machete. A combat machete is typically 18 to 24 inches in length and has a blade that is about 2.5 to 4 inches wide. The blade is sharpened on one side and typically terminates at a point. It is designed primarily for chopping and slashing rather than for piercing.
A well-made combat machete can be extremely sharp, and it will easily cut through wood, roots, and vines. However, it is not as sharp as a kitchen knife and should not be used for delicate tasks such as slicing meat or vegetables but would make an excellent survival machete.
