Machetes are a must for both basic landscaping needs and excursions into the wilderness. When shopping for the best machetes, you should pay careful attention to both the blade and handle design. Our article is going to help you with this process by reviewing 10 of the best machetes currently available. We will also rank our choices based on both popularity and affordability.
10. Brand New Elkridge Machete
One of the best machetes we found during our research is Brand New’s Elkridge model. It features a blade that measures 22 inches in length with a thickness of 3 millimeters. In terms of construction, the blade is made from steel that is highly resistant to rust and corrosion.
One of the things that stands out most with this particular product is that it comes with its very own carrying case. Though the case construction could stand to be a bit more durable, it’s perfect for protecting the blade’s edge when it’s not in use. We also found the fully enclosed handle design to be another great plus that really improved the blade’s handling.
9. Fiskars Garden Machete
Another one of the best machetes we discovered is made by Fiskars. This product is fairly large measuring 26 inches in length. When you pick it up, the first thing you notice is that it has a sturdy build. The blade weighs just over two pounds and provides just enough force with each swing to effectively cut down small trees and brush.
In addition to its size and weight, we also appreciated the curved design of the blade. This helps keep the blade from getting stuck in thick vegetation. The last feature worth mentioning is the pinhole in the blade’s hilt. This provides an ideal way to hang the blade in your garage for convenient storage.
8. CRKT Chanceinhell Fixed Blade Machete
For those of you who are looking for a more compact blade design, the Chanceinhell by CRKT is another one of the best machetes to consider. The blade length measures a modest 18 inches in length and it offers many exciting features.
One of the best things about the blade’s design is that it is made from steel that is powder coated to help improve its durability. In addition, it features an ergonomic handle design that is ideal for both left and right-handed users. The last thing worth mentioning is that this machete comes with its own protective nylon sheath. This helps protect the blade from water, dust, and other contaminants.
7. Gerber Gator Bolo Machete
The Gerber Gator Bolo machete earned its spot on our list for many reasons. For starters, this blade features full tang construction to ensure improved durability and longevity. We also found the nylon sheath that was included with the knife to be solidly built. For most users, this will provide more than enough protection to keep your blade clean between uses.
The blade length is also more modest measuring 15.5 inches. This provides better control for more inexperienced users. Our only complaint has to deal with the handle design. It lacks an ergonomic feel that improves the overall handling experience.
6. Tramontina TT1018 Machete Wood Sword
The Tramontina machete wood sword is another one of the best products we could find. Starting with the blade design, this machete is made from carbon steel. This drastically improves the durability of the blade and helps ensure that it will retain its edge for years to come. The length of the blade falls somewhere in the middle with a measurement of 18 inches.
However, the handle is where things really stand out. This blade utilizes genuine hardwood for the handle design. This adds a rustic look to the blade. However, this also means you have to be careful about prolonged water exposure. In addition, the blade doesn’t come with a protective sheath.
5. Kershaw Camp
Kershaw Camp makes another one of the best machetes available for purchase. One of the best things about this particular product is that it comes in two sizes, 18 and 14 inches. The blade features full tang construction to help reduce the risk of cracking the blade.
As for the blade’s material, it’s made of stainless steel and is finished with a black powder coating. This helps ensure that the blade is highly resistant to rust and that it maintains its edge well. The last feature worth mentioning is that these machetes also come with a molded sheath that is quite durable.
4. Ontario Military Machete
Ontario’s military machete is an excellent pick for individuals who value a more compact blade style. The blade measures just 18 inches in length and is made from genuine carbon steel. In terms of durability, the blade holds its edge well and shouldn’t require frequent sharpening to keep it at its finest.
When it comes to the handle design, it’s a bit more of a mixed bag. The handle is made of a rubberized material. The good part of this is that this type of material provides much more shock resistance and it’s basically waterproof. However, it’s also much easier to lose your grip with a rubberized handle when your hand is sweaty or otherwise wet.
3. SOG SOGfari
The SOGfari by SOG earned its spot on our list of the best machetes for many reasons. For starters, their blade has one of the most unique designs of any product we’ve reviewed. The front edge features a slanted cutting angle that you typically see in machetes. However, the back of the blade also has a serrated edge that is perfect for cutting rope and twine.
While this does add to the blades functionality, it also means you have to be a bit more careful when handling it. In addition, we wish that the manufacturer included a sheath with each product to help keep the blade safe.
2.Tomahawk Razorback
Much like the SOGfari, the Razorback by Tomahawk also features a double edge blade design. The back of the blade is serrated to help cut through particularly thick wood pieces and ropes with ease. The blade also features full tang construction to help ensure that the blade doesn’t shatter.
However, the main reason we decided to put it in our number two spot is that the manufacturer includes a protective sheath for the machete. In addition, the sheath features a carrying sash to make transporting the machete even easier. Our only complaint is that the serrated edge doesn’t run the entire top length of the blade.
1. Gerber Gator Machete
Our number one best machete pick is made by Gerber Gator. The reason it was nominated for its number one position is that it combines several useful features we found on other products into one convenient item. For starters, it has both a smooth and serrated cutting edge on the blade. The serrated edge also continues all the way to the tip of the blade too.
We also like that the blade is made from steel with a high carbon content. This helps to prevent cracks and reduces the chance of rust and corrosion. As for the handle design, it’s rubberized and includes a small lanyard that can be used to help mount the machete between uses.
Recommended read: A machete is not the only item you’ll want to take with you into the wilderness. It’s vital you also have one of the best survival knives available today.
Final Word
When searching for the best machetes, the 10 products we found all met the qualifications for various reasons. Many of them feature carbon steel construction and there are several that offer multiple cutting surfaces. Take your time browsing our recommendations and tell us which product appeals to you most and why.
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