How to choose the right machete

With the extensive range of machetes offered by all manufacturers, it can sometimes be difficult to navigate. A short or long machete? What blade shape? Which steel to choose? All these questions and many others that we will answer for you!

The history of the machete

The machete has a very long history, and is considered one of the oldest tools in the world! Initially used in agriculture for cutting sugar cane, it has also been widely used to forge paths in dense environments like the jungle.

History has gradually diverted the primary use of this agricultural tool into a weapon and survival tool. The machete, being present in different countries with warm climates such as Africa or French overseas territories, will differ according to its intended uses. Indeed, a machete designed to cut sugar cane will need to be different from one you'd take with you in an environment where nature has reclaimed its rights. This is where Kodiak Store comes in, enlightening you on the different types of machetes and the criteria to which you should pay the most attention.

A machete for survival and bushcraft

Even if we're far from the dense vegetation of tropical forests, a survival machete will be of great help to clear your path. Indeed, going on an adventure doesn't mean taking beaten paths, but rather exploring new landscapes while pushing your own limits.

Compared to a hatchet, the versatility of the machete will allow you to avoid being overloaded during these few days of trekking or bushcraft session. For survivalists, many machetes are applied with a black anti-reflective coating, not to mention that it will be very useful for self-defense.

Ideal for fire preparation and shelter construction, it's worth noting that using a machete is not the most discreet option. Indeed, to live happily and hidden without drawing attention, many will also bring a folding saw with them.

The different types of machetes

As mentioned, there is a wide variety of machetes. You need to find the right tool because a large machete for cutting long thick grass will not be appropriate for cutting wood to build a shelter. Let's look at the main families of machetes available:

What blade length should you consider?

Once you've selected the type of machete, you now need to pay attention to the proposed blade length. Indeed, it's about finding the right compromise between cutting power and maneuverability. Generally, the blade length of a machete ranges between 25 and 70 cm. In most cases, you'll be offered a blade of about 40 cm, which allows for pleasant and effective use.

You have the option to choose a shorter blade, between 25 and 35 cm. These short machetes will have a shorter reach but will be easier to carry. Also, being more maneuverable, they will cause less muscle fatigue as you use them.

You can also opt for a long-blade machete, that is, beyond 55 cm. This will allow for a wide range of motion with good cutting results. Ideal for cutting tall grass, they will allow you to clear land more quickly. On the downside, it will be difficult to go on multi-day expeditions with an outdoor tool of this size due to its bulkiness.

What type of steel for your machete?

You'll also need to look at the characteristics of the steel that makes up your new machete. Usually, you'll be offered sturdy stainless steels. Thus, your machete will fear neither impacts nor humidity. We advise you to prefer carbon steel, which provides excellent durability, very good resistance, and easy sharpening.

Prefer full tang designs. This way, you won't risk seeing the blade accidentally fly off, or worse, injure yourself.

You should also pay attention to the thickness of the blade. Indeed, depending on the more or less heavy work you plan to undertake, blade thickness is a determining factor. Usually 3 mm, if you choose a thinner blade, you'll have a high movement speed but risk breaking the blade. Conversely, a thicker blade between 5 and 9 mm will provide great robustness to the machete and high cutting power. In return, expect to lose in maneuverability and, above all, quickly lose energy.

The right handle for comfortable use

You'll also have a choice between different types of handles. Indeed, between the walnut handle offered on Condor models or the polypropylene handles from Cold Steel for example, several solutions are available to you. Maintenance and usage conditions should be taken into account to make the right choice. Usually, the machete is used with one hand, but you can consider a larger handle to give yourself the opportunity for two-handed use.

Often ergonomic, some brands like Wildsteer offer anti-vibration handles, such as with the W Tiger. Finally, for optimal safety, prefer machetes that offer a lanyard hole. This way, you'll have less tense hands for on-the-fly cutting.