The Best Machetes
For centuries, people have been using machetes to harvest crops and clear underbrush from forest paths. If you're looking to trim some of the vegetation in your backyard to make it more hospitable, there's no better tool than a machete. Machetes are sword-like blades that are primarily used for outdoor agricultural work, but people also use them for self-defense. If you're looking for the perfect machete to help out with some yard work or to take on your next camping trip, check out our picks for the best machetes on the market. Read on to discover more.
Hooyman Bush Machete
The best blade
If you’re having a hard time keeping some of the vegetation in your backyard in a manageable state, this machete from Hooyman might be the perfect pick for you. At 20.25-inches long, this machete blade gives you more than enough reach to work with while you’re chopping away undesirable underbrush. Better yet, the handle includes a convenient hole that makes it easy to hang the machete for storage when you’re done working. With a balanced weight and a fair price, this option from Hooyman is the cream of the crop.
Pros:
- The handle of this machete utilizes a comfortable rubber grip that is ergonomic and prevents blisters and cramps from long-term use.
- The weighty thickness of the machete blade prevents vibrations that could be painful to your hand after prolonged use.
Cons:
- While the rubber grip is comfortable, it might start to degrade over time.
Grand Way 18.5-Inch Serrated Blade Machete
Get chopping
Grand Way’s 18.5-inch serrated machete is an all-purpose outdoor tool that you can make good use of in a multitude of situations. Whether you’re into hunting, fishing, camping, gardening, or hiking, you’re bound to find plenty of uses for Grand Way’s machete. The stainless steel blade of this machete is double-lined with a serrated edge and a razor edge that you can utilize at your own discretion depending on the task at hand.
Pros:
- The unique design of this double-edged machete makes it a much more versatile option than plenty of its more specialized competitors.
- The durable sheath that Grand Way includes with your purchase will increase the longevity of your blade by giving you a durable housing unit for storage.
Cons:
- The weighty design of this machete helps take down heavy underbrush easily, but it might tire your arm out if you plan to use it all day.
Jungle Master JM-031B Machete
Magnificent machete
If you’re in the market for a multi-functional machete that looks just as good as it performs, this pick from Jungle Master might be just what the doctor ordered. This black stainless steel machete features one serrated edge that acts like a saw and one razor-sharp edge that’s perfect for slashing through the underbrush in your backyard or out on hikes. Not to mention, the black cord-wrapped handle makes this machete exceptionally comfortable and easy to maneuver.
Pros:
- The razor side of this machete is sharp enough to slash through light vegetation in one swift arm movement.
- Between the matte black finish on the stainless steel and the aesthetically pleasing curvature of the blade, this machete proudly stands apart from the pack in terms of style.
Cons:
- While the cord wrapping on the handle is comfortable, it is susceptible to peeling off after long-term use.
Sog Sogfari Survival Machete
Must-have machete
That invasive bush in your backyard isn’t going to remove itself. With the help of Sog’s Sogfari survival machete, you can mark that task off of your to-do list in an afternoon. This compact, 10-inch machete might not look as formidable as some of its competitors, but trust us, this thing really packs a wallop. The double-edged blade is sharp and durable and the handle grip is ergonomic and eminently usable.
Pros:
- The well-balanced weight of this machete blade makes it easy to cut down vegetation in one fell swoop without tiring out your arm.
- The shorter length of this machete makes it much easier to wield, especially if you are a smaller person.
Cons:
- There’s a lot to love about the Sogfari survival machete, but the blade is unfortunately quite susceptible to nicks and dents.
Woodman’s Pal 2.0 Axe Machete
Delightfully detailed
If you’re looking for a gorgeously designed machete that can double as a decorative piece to hang on your wall, consider your search over. The Woodman’s Pal 2.0 axe machete is truly a marvel in terms of design and performance. The unique axe-shaped blade on this machete makes it easier than ever to trailblaze and clear out pesky underbrush from your backyard. We love the balanced design, which adds to the maneuverability of this handy machete.
Pros:
- The rustic wood grain look of the handle puts this machete in a league of its own in terms of style.
- The blade has a curved tip that makes carving and whittling wood a breeze.
Cons:
- The price is considerably higher than most other options, though the premium construction is worth it.
Our Tips and Tricks
There are many things to consider when purchasing a machete, but in our view, the biggest factor in your decision-making process should be versatility. Ideally, you want a machete that can serve as an all-purpose outdoor tool that you can use for yard work, camping, fishing, hunting, and any other outdoor activity you might partake in. To ensure that your machete can accommodate your needs in a multitude of situations, it’s best to buy a double-edged macheted that has a razor-sharp side and a serrated side. The serrated side will act as a saw when you need to cut through tree stumps or thick branches, and the razor-sharp side will help you to easily slash through live underbrush in one smooth motion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common uses for machetes?
The most common use for a machete would be to maintain a clean look to the vegetation in your yard, but there are a plethora of other uses for this tool. Machetes are extremely helpful for trailblazing, hunting trips, wood carving, chopping compost, and much more.
Where is the best place to store a machete?
All of the machetes we’ve featured for this piece include durable sheaths for storage. Be sure to keep your machete in a secure and dry location where children won’t be able to reach it.
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