When it comes to outdoor enthusiasts or building a comprehensive survival kit, a machete is an essential item. While it’s often linked with jungle survival and blazing trails in dense terrain, this versatile cutting tool has far broader applications. Its sturdy design and razor-sharp blade make it well-suited for a wide range of tasks, from clearing overgrown vegetation and tangled vines around your property to chopping branches and navigating camping or hiking expeditions.
In short, the machete is an indispensable tool for anyone who spends time outdoors.
The 7 Best Machetes
When it comes to choosing the right machete, there are numerous options available in the market. Here’s a list of some top-notch brands and models that have gained popularity among outdoor enthusiasts: Gerber’s Gator Bolo Machete is known for its robust design and exceptional performance, while Ka-Bar’s 2-1249-9 Kukri Machete offers a unique blend of power and agility.
The Condor Tool & Knife Engineer Bolo Machete is another favorite among machete enthusiasts, offering a balance of strength and precision. Meanwhile, Cold Steel’s All-Purpose Tactical Machete has gained a reputation for its versatility and reliability in various outdoor scenarios. Tramontina’s Bolo Machete provides an affordable and effective solution for those looking to get started with machete use. And finally, the Ontario Knife Co.
‘s 1-18-Inch Military Machete takes top honors as our top pick, thanks to its impressive durability and exceptional performance in harsh environments. For a more rugged experience, Elk Ridge’s Outdoors Fixed Blade Machete is also worth considering.
Our Top Pick for the Best Machete
The Ontario Knife Co. 1-18-Inch Military Machete stands out as our premier choice for its impressive versatility and value. Whether you’re blazing a trail through dense foliage, clearing your yard or orchard, or camping in the wilderness, this machete’s rugged black carbon steel blade is designed to deliver precise cuts with military-grade effectiveness. The weather-resistant handle ensures a secure grip in any condition, making it an indispensable tool for outdoor enthusiasts.
With its exceptional cutting performance and affordable price point, this machete has earned its place as a must-have jungle craft essential. You can check the current pricing on Amazon.
Introducing the Machete: the Ultimate Multi-Functional Bush Craft Tool
The machete is often touted as one of the most adaptable and useful cutting tools in the jungle. Its versatility lies in its ability to handle a wide range of tasks, from everyday outdoor activities to more specialized uses. You can use it to clear dense vegetation by slashing through thickets, trim branches or cut down sugar cane plants for food or fuel.
Additionally, the machete is handy for cutting firewood for camping trips, opening coconuts for fresh milk and meat, as well as serving as a makeshift self-defense weapon against wild animals. In more survival-oriented situations, the machete can be used to prepare game by cutting, gutting, and dressing an animal. Its multifaceted nature makes it an essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast or survivalist.
How to Choose the Best Machete
Material
When it comes to machete materials, two popular options stand out: high carbon steel and stainless steel. Stainless steel is a viable choice due to its durability, anti-rust properties, and sleek mirror finish. However, carbon steel remains the preferred material for many due to its exceptional strength, razor-sharp edge, and ability to maintain its sharpness over time.
While carbon steel’s heft may be a drawback, its only significant shortcoming is susceptibility to rust, requiring regular maintenance through oiling. To counteract this issue, manufacturers employ various corrosion-resistant techniques, such as the baked-on anti-rust matte finish used by Ontario Knife Co. and Cold Steel, or the black powder-coated protective finishes adopted by Gerber Gear, Ka-Bar, and ELK Ridge.
Blade Style
Machete blades showcase diversity in design, influenced by the cultures and traditions they originated from. From the Parang style, utilized by traditional jungle tribesmen, to the Kukri machete with its broad, curved blade reminiscent of the Gurkha mountaineers’ heritage, there are various styles to explore. Bolo blades, steeped in a rich history of warfare, coexist alongside sleek ninja-inspired designs and even sword-like blades that evoke the romanticism of pirate lore.
Weight
When selecting a machete, the weight is a crucial consideration. A well-balanced tool is essential when tackling dense vegetation or prolonged use. The ideal machete strikes a perfect balance between weight and size, feeling surprisingly lightweight in hand or on belt, regardless of whether you’re performing light or arduous cutting tasks.
Sharpness
The effectiveness of a machete in slicing through dense foliage and tree limbs largely depends on its blade sharpness. While many machetes are crafted to be sharp from the outset, industry convention dictates that manufacturers typically perform an initial grind at the factory before shipping their products. This means that, initially, the blade may not possess the same level of sharpness as one would expect.
However, with a quick sharpening session using a stone or similar tool, the blade can be readily transformed into a razor-sharp cutting instrument.
Length
The machete’s weight is heavily influenced by its length, with longer blades capable of handling thicker materials. This increased ability to cut through dense foliage comes at the cost of added heft, making it more suitable for clearing larger areas. Conversely, a shorter blade reduces the overall weight and makes it more practical for carrying on your belt while hiking or navigating tight spaces.
While the blade length typically falls between 11½ and 18 inches, it’s essential to consider the handle’s length as well, which can significantly impact the machete’s total length.
Handle
Sheath
A machete’s sheath is just as crucial as the tool itself, serving not only to safeguard the blade but also to shield the user when carrying it on their belt or in a bag. While some machetes may not come with a pre-fitted sheath, there are various options available that cater to different needs and preferences. Nylon sheaths offer a lightweight and budget-friendly solution, boasting mildew-resistant properties for added durability.
For those seeking a more premium look and greater sturdiness, leather or Cordura sheaths provide a stylish and heavy-duty alternative – albeit one that may add weight to the overall package.
7 Best Machetes – Reviews
Gerber Gator Bolo Machete
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who loves exploring the wilderness, the Gerber Gator Bolo Machete is an essential tool for clearing your path. Inspired by traditional machetes used in the Philippines, this heavy-duty version features a curved blade ideal for slicing through tall grass and small tree branches. Its 15.5-inch fine edge, full-tang high carbon steel blade boasts a black-powder coating that enhances its strength, durability, and corrosion-resistance, making it easy to sharpen as well.
The ergonomic Gator Grip handle provides a secure slip-free grip in wet or sweaty conditions, while the lanyard cord allows for additional grip security or quick access from your tent. The rugged nylon sheath features belt loop and D-ring attachments for carrying the machete on your hip or lashing it to a backpack. Gerber Gear’s limited lifetime warranty ensures you’re protected against defects. With its high-quality construction, this machete offers excellent value for money.
Its pros include being ideal for cutting tall grass, small tree limbs, and clearing small bushes, while its cons are limited to not being suitable for thick branches and requiring frequent re-sharpening.
Ka-Bar 2-1249-9 Kukri Machete
The Ka-Bar Kukri Machete is a WWII-era classic that remains the go-to choice for the US military to this day. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast tackling rugged terrain or simply clearing overgrown vegetation from your yard, this machete is an excellent option. Its exceptional sharpness comes courtesy of its 11½-inch full-tang blade made from high-quality, non-reflective black-coated carbon steel. The hollow grind design ensures the blade remains razor-sharp even after repeated use.
The Kukri’s durability and rigidity make it perfect for camping and backpacking, clearing brush and weeds, or chopping small branches with ease. You can even use it to chop kindling for a campfire. The ergonomic Kraton G thermoplastic elastomer handle features a non-slip grip and textured grooves for a secure hold. The Kukri measures 17 inches overall and comes with a black leather/Cordura combination sheath to keep it safe and secure.
The pros of this machete far outweigh the cons: its high-quality blade, military-grade durability, and comfortable handle make it an excellent choice. While it may not be ideal for cutting thick branches, the Ka-Bar Kukri Machete is a solid investment for any outdoor enthusiast or gardener.
Condor Tool & Knife, Engineer Bolo Machete
The Condor Tool & Knife, Engineer Bolo Machete, stands out as a powerful tool due to its solid steel blade and heavy-duty construction. This exceptional machete is perfect for survival enthusiasts, trailblazers, or homeowners looking to clear overgrown vegetation. Its razor-sharp 15-inch full-tang blade made from thick 5mm high-carbon steel ensures a smooth cutting experience. The unique design of the deep bellied sweeping blade allows for efficient chopping and push/draw cuts.
The ergonomic straight hardwood walnut handle features a swell at the base, providing a secure grip. A lanyard hole enables easy hanging. This premium machete comes with an exquisite handcrafted welted brown leather sheath to maintain its condition. While it may be heavy, this superior quality machete offers excellent value for money and is ideal for challenging environments.
Cold Steel All-Purpose Tactical Machete
The Cold Steel All-Purpose Tactical Machete is an exceptional tool for any outdoor enthusiast. This versatile machete is designed to tackle various tasks, from hunting and fishing to bushcraft and survival situations. The Kukri-style blade, crafted from 1055 hard carbon steel with a spring temper, measures 13 inches long and features a curved shape that allows it to efficiently cut through dense vegetation. A black, baked-on anti-rust finish adds durability in extreme weather conditions.
This machete is an excellent all-around tool for both beginners and experienced outdoorsmen. With its ability to perform various tasks such as cutting, chopping, slashing, hacking, splitting, scraping, scooping, hammering, digging, crushing, carving, whittling, cracking, or smashing, it’s no surprise that this product has gained popularity among martial arts specialists worldwide.
Even renowned action star Steven Seagal lends his name to the superior quality products of Cold Steel knives and machetes. The ergonomically designed 5-inch polypropylene handle is comfortable to grip, allowing for a secure hold even in wet or slippery conditions. A lanyard hole provides an added layer of security, while the Cor-Ex Sheath keeps the machete safe and secure when not in use.
With its lightweight design and ability to cut through tree limbs up to 1 inch thick, this machete is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who value a reliable tool. The price point is another significant advantage, making it an excellent value for those looking for a high-quality machete that won’t break the bank.
Tramontina Bolo Machete
The Tramontina Bolo Machete is a rugged and reliable tool that’s been trusted by rural workers in South America’s hinterlands. This 20-inch machete, crafted from high-quality materials in Brazil, is perfect for tackling dense jungle vegetation, clearing your property of overgrown brush, or even cracking open a coconut. Its robust construction and solid carbon-steel 14½-inch blade make it an excellent choice for any outdoor enthusiast.
The natural hardwood handle provides a secure grip, even in the most challenging conditions. Weighing just 1lb, the Tramontina Bolo-style machete is remarkably lightweight and well-balanced, making it comfortable to wield for extended periods. While it does require some initial sharpening out of the box, once honed, its blade becomes razor-sharp and ready to take on even the toughest cutting tasks.
One notable drawback is that this machete doesn’t come with a sheath, but Cold Steel offers an affordable solution. Overall, the Tramontina Bolo Machete represents excellent value for its price. Its numerous advantages include affordability, versatility, and durability.
Ontario Knife Co. 1-18-Inch Military Machete
For those seeking a machete that can handle heavy-duty chopping and cutting, the Ontario Knife Co.’s military-style machete is an exceptional choice. This high-quality tool has been manufactured for over 60 years under the US government’s strict specifications, earning it a reputation for delivering superior performance in even the most challenging conditions.
The machete boasts an impressive 18-inch blade crafted from thick black 1095 carbon steel, specifically designed according to a classic Latin pattern. The blade is coated with zinc phosphate and features a flat ground edge, ensuring its durability and resilience against outdoor elements. Its solid build and razor-sharp full tang design make it well-suited for hunters, landscapers, wilderness trekkers, and campers.
While the machete does arrive sharpened, some additional sharpening will be required to maintain its optimal performance. Once honed, however, the blade will remain sharp and retain its edge over time. The handle is constructed from strong, shatterproof molded black plastic, securely riveted to the blade with steel compression rivets, providing a reliable grip in various weather conditions.
The machete’s impressive capabilities include cutting through dense undergrowth, small trees, and even chopping small pieces of wood. As an excellent value for its quality, this product is well worth considering. However, it’s essential to note that the leather sheath must be purchased separately from the Ontario Knife Co. All OKC products come with a limited lifetime warranty, providing added peace of mind.
Elk Ridge – Outdoors Fixed Blade Machete
Experience adventure with style and substance courtesy of Elk Ridge’s stunning machete. Inspired by the Pirates of the Caribbean, this beautifully crafted fixed blade machete combines form and function to deliver a reliable companion for any outdoor escapade. Whether you’re venturing into uncharted territory or tackling overgrown vegetation in your own backyard, the Elk Ridge Outdoors Fixed Blade Machete is up to the task.
Measuring 20½ inches overall with a sturdy 13-inch blade made from 3mm thick black stainless steel, this machete is built for durability and performance. While it requires some initial sharpening, subsequent use will reveal its ability to hold an edge well. The ‘pirate-style’ handle, crafted from heavy-duty plastic injection molding in a fetching orange and black design, provides a secure grip even when wet.
A lanyard attachment allows you to hang the machete for easy storage within your tent or at camp. Complete with a nylon pouch for safe transportation, this versatile tool is ready to tackle any situation that comes its way. Its notable strengths include quality construction, affordability, and an eye-catching design, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable companion for their outdoor pursuits.
Our Top Pick for the Best Machete
Our go-to choice for a reliable machete is the Ontario Knife Co. 1-18-Inch Military Machete, a durable and efficient cutting tool that’s perfect for tackling heavy-duty tasks like clearing dense vegetation or preparing firewood. With its affordable price point and razor-sharp blade made from hardened black carbon steel, this machete is designed to deliver top-notch performance in even the most challenging outdoor conditions.
The weather-resistant handle ensures a secure grip regardless of the weather, making it an essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re blazing a trail through the wilderness, cleaning up your yard or orchard, or camping out under the stars, this machete is sure to become your new favorite companion. Check the price on Amazon and experience the Ontario Machete’s exceptional cutting performance for yourself.
