@@mightymik3yb1008 Only really because he insisted on making the same type of cut as the axe and widening it all the time. The parang technique will usually be cutting from a couple of different angles and you’ll be through much faster. Lifelong parang users are super economical in their general technique. Plus, if you use a parang the same weight as the axe, say a heavy 12-15 inch you might be surprised at the increased chopping facility.
living in a country with tropical rainforests (Malaysia), the parang is a must have. Largely because it is necessary to clear the dense undergrowth especially in areas where there are no fix trails. Nice comparison vid
exactly! My fellow Americans don't know anything about (primary and secondary) forest/jungle! Plus the Amazing quickness of the growth of all vegetation.. i LOVE Malaysia
Nice run thro Ben exactly why I've carried a large blade and a small blade for over 30yrs as my out door cutting (was a large Khukuri and a locking SAK) now obviously its my own made stuff ( usually a large camp knife or full size parang ) . Add a folding saw to deal easily with larger limbs as you would an axe kit as well and its a perfect set for UK woodland use . I have brought an axe over the last 20 yrs or so but it's a GB carving axe for carving so a luxury add on with an Adze and crooked knife . Definatly a larger axe and buck saw for cold climates where the ability to process massive amounts of wood for heat which is where the Lars and Mors schools of bushcraft come from which is where a large part of modern bushcraft has grown out of
Also it depends with the whole "Forest" and "Jungle" thing. I live in heavily dense forest woods and a axe for trees makes sense, but since its so dense with shrubs and branches everywhere a parang would be best for my situation. Edit: Love the video, very helpfull, indepth, and straight to the point.
Yeah, it all depends where you live and time of year. That said, I live in the Appalachians, so I need all the tools at some point throughout the year. Jungle-like in the summers. Then, right over to the other extremes of frozen, snowy, icy in the winters. Then, factor in the extremes of weather in between elevation changes in the same season. I've lived in various parts of the Appalachians. The elevation issue is more noticeable in places like the Smokies. Here in PA now, our highest elevation is only 3500 ft but even the difference between 800 ft and 2600 ft is significant. I had one summer where it was blazing 90° all day, got up to around 2600 ft, and by night, a cold front blew in that brought sleet and freezing rain....dropped right down into the 30°'s F and quickly turned into an almost survival scenario if I didn't have the little bit of extra gear I had on me that night. I've been working on an Appalachian tool kit that's part of my bushcraft/survival/bug out/whatever bag that isn't overly heavy but still packs a punch on tool needs and versatility. So far, it's my 24" Tramontina machete (which I will never, ever part with, I'm a BIG machete guy Spring, Summer, early Fall), Cold Steel Trailhawk (tomahawk) to fill an "axe" role without being too large and heavy (if you know how, you can do some decent chopping and splitting for its small size), and a Silky Bigboy2000 saw. Small folding knife in the pocket. Those three big (but relatively light) tools are around the same length, all long and slender, and fit next to each other pretty well. They all slide in a long canvas pouch together, and I can strap them to my pack (even a small pack) in various ways. Sometimes I go back and forth switching out the hawk with my ESEE Junglas.....depending In deep winter, I'd prefer a more substantial axe like my Gransfors Bruks Scandinavian Forest axe, but it just gets too heavy on foot after while, especially if I have a rifle with me.
I don't own an actual parang, but I do have a Becker Kukri that I pack. But like you, the colder it gets, the more I carry an axe, or at least a heavy tomahawk. Great video
Now, I have to start saving so I can purchase one of your parangs. Those are beautiful cutting tools. I also, want to get one of your left-handed spoof knives. Those are beauties too. Great channel. You and Lois are a great team. Ciao
It really depends on where you need to survive, if it's in a very dense wooded area and you want to build a log cabin, then an axe would be a great tool to have. If you were in a bamboo forest and wanted to build a light shelter then the parang would be preferable. But in a real life or death survival environment I would be happy with either, I would even thank God if I had a Buck 110
I don't know why so many associate an axe with "building a log cabin." Do some northern winters outdoors and you'll quickly find out you need an axe for far less than building log cabins. In deep winter, the ground is covered with snow and ice. The only accessible dry woods are "squaw wood", the dead branches at the bottom of pine trees and dead standing which needs to be felled, delimbed, bucked up, and split. All that work for just a simple fire to keep you warm and survive. You're not going to get that kind of work out of lesser tools efficiently and in a timely matter. Using anything less than a medium sized axe will suck and drain you quickly. Make you sweat more. Make you use way more precious calories, minerals, etc. Blades are much more prone to snapping in below freezing Temps and hard use. Even axe edges are prone to this but the thicker steel helps prevent this and you're supposed to warm the head under your armpit before use. There are saws, which are great, but you always run the risk of snapping a saw blade in below freezing temperatures. OR, frozen hardwoods will actually dull a saw blade pretty quickly. Many times, (if you know how to use one) an axe is much quicker and less work than a saw, believe it or not. Obviously, pack in the properly rated sleeping bag, and your tool choice doesn't matter much at all. I'm assuming we're discussing a scenario where you don't have or lost/damaged sleeping bag. A longterm survival scenario, etc If I'm making a bug out bag that has a properly rated sleeping bag, yeah, then there's no need for an axe. You can just use a small or medium blade with a Bahco Laplander or something.
I've never heard of the technique of warming an axe blade or knife blade in the armpit, so thankyou, but luckily here in Britain our winters seldom get that cold, but thankyou for that piece of knowledge.@@pennsyltuckyreb9800
I guess Im asking the wrong place but does someone know of a method to log back into an Instagram account..? I was dumb lost my password. I would love any assistance you can give me.
@Orion Jaziel Thanks so much for your reply. I got to the site through google and I'm trying it out atm. Takes quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.
Saw a tip on another channel when cutting saplings push the trunk away from you and then strike it with whatever edge tool you're using. It uses way less energy, I've done it myself since a few times. Gets around the issue of it wobbling when you hit it as well.
I use a parang in SW Florida. It does everything pretty well. The Axe is better for brute force hammering/splitting thick stuff. When living in Alaska, I used a bolo machete.
I have a lightweight hatchet in my truck ammo can, but just purchased a parang to carry instead of the classic medium fixed blade knife. I like the ability to slash veggies out of my way, not so easy to do with your style ax, and the sheathed parang with the combination of a folding saw in my backpack is my choice for firewood gathering, site clearing, and brush removal on campsite and trails. Looks good for stake making, and I can always use a 3 inch diameter short log piece as a stake hammer, and for driving the parang for firewood splitting. I am 71 years old and looking for a way to lighten my pack/bugout bag/get home bag.
I like to carry my Silky Zubat saw along with either my axe, parang or just my woodlander knife, but it is horses for courses depending on where you are and what you are doing and what your mode of transport is, another good video Ben, thanks.
Hi Ben I use a Elwell Rutland pattern Billhook, no curve 9” blade. A fabulous tool for all round use and the old tool steel holds a great edge and quick to resharpen. It’s an inexpensive alternative to a parang for those of us on a limited budget. Really enjoyed the video and loved that Parang.
Love axes. But long edge wins all day in my experience. If you are intending to drop big timber axe. Anything "bushcraft" a chopper wins. That being said, I still carry my axe 🪓😎
👍 Extremely fair & practical tests. To be honest I thought it was a draw between the 2 tools. Either would be sufficient if that is what one brought with them. I have had good luck taking a small axe/hatchet along with a SAK. Both these tools work well for me in the same tasks you used in this video. In the Winter I had a saw. Having said that, based on some interest in small machetes I have just ordered a parang with a 10-1/2” blade. I want to see if that would be an acceptable alternative to my axe/hatchet. I would still carry the SAK because I always carry an SAK. Carrying the parang might be more convenient than carrying my axe. I enjoy your videos very much as they are a great help in moving along the learning curve for when my parang arrives.
Right tool for the job. Parangs are the equivalent to a billhook in UK . The vegetation in Asia is different to Europe, but even they use billhooks for certain jobs. And axes. This parang is a good size to carry. And not a aggressive looking tool. Tidy looking parang! Nice vid.
I've grown quite fond of my 18" latin machete. It's a no-name product, but the steel is hardened well enough - it holds an edge ok and is springy/tough to take impact/torque/abuse. When it hits a stone, it is easily repaired with a file and/or pocket stone. I find that it is great for brush removal, while still being capable of cutting 2" branches without a problem. Paired with a knife, it's a good combo for the warmer seasons.
Hi Ben. I always use parang or golok in the woods, also folding saw. I've never used axes bevore actually. In Indonesia the weather are dry or wet, only two season 😁
I have both tools and my friend, I would have to say that they each have their place. I live in northern Canada, and I would have to say that if I had to take only one tool. It would be the axe. Only because of where I live and practicality. Especially in the winter when I have to process a lot of fire wood. But if I lived in a southern country I would take the machete. I would be partial on that even still. Mainly because I grew up using the axe mostly. I do like using my machete as well. Great video. I really enjoyed it👍
In my neck of the woods, whenever I go out, I take my parang, a folding saw, and a tomahawk. I seldom find that I need a full fledged Axe. Their heavy, and just not needed unless I plan on building some sort of structure. I have owned one of Ben’s parang’s now for over two years, and I absolutely love it. If you’ve never held or worked with a parang, I highly recommend you give one a try, and I recommend one of Ben’s parang’s. Seriously, at least go checkout his website. -Stephen, Ohio 🇺🇸
I just found your channel and started watching a video .. So far i own one Gransfors Burk tool which is the Wildlife hatchet , wonderful tool and very well built .. When i go into the forest it always goes with me in a belt holster .. Very well done you have skills ..I also own a Kukri which i take with me but i find the Wildlife hatchet more useful as i can and do drive tent stakes with it.. I do like the Kukri and i feel it has it's place out there in the forest for a woods tool .. A lot of the times i carry both if i'm camped for a few days .. Great video ..
Here's another one, why don't you attach a small sharpening stone to the kydex parang sheath ? as its an expensive item, it would make good sense to have the ability to maintain its sharpness
So a bladed tool like a parang or machete is better in more lush jungle environments where there is more bush cutting, a hatchet is better for temperate forests where there isn't so much underbrush and more access to thicker deadfall timber.
Nowbody talks about the hardness, resistance of/ damage too the blade. I think an axe will resist longer and will be less damaged after chopping a tree... Never the less a good video
It's because this video is talking about the usage comparison. I mean, it's useless to use 100 years hardness Axe if people could do better/faster works using Parang. vice versa.
If we are doing what the large knife is intended to do meaning chop down max arm thick wood which it does better than axe I can't see why the relative durability on paper matters.
Tomahawk, Parang and a Buck 119 are always in my pack when venturing out and about. The Tomahawk is so much lighter than an Axe but can do 80% of an Axes work imo.
Hi there, I live in the UK and I am looking for a cheap parang that does a job-helping me carve wood. I also need one to clear brush at my archery course, as well as just a general chopping tool. My hatchet is okay but I could do with something more accurate, but not a brilliant one like yours, something you could probably get for £20 or £40. As I have also purchased a new ferret, I need something like this to clear brush for rabbiting, but every place I have looked online is super expensive and even though I live just a stone's throw from the Lake District, the outdoors' shops are restricted on what they can sell now because of UK law AKA the three inch folding limit. Do you know of any online retailers based in the UK that have good equipment for a novice? Oliver.
The parang doesnt bounce as much of thinner trees as an axe because of the weight distribution, which makes it safer and more efficient at that and you can perhaps put more force into the swing without risking a sudden downward cut because you miss or cut through - also shifting position and angling the cuts is easier because there is less need to change your aim.
i carry a 14 inch Latin machete tramontina its light enough to carry holds a good edge and is easy to sharpen and has a great price i also carry a single bit hatchet in the winter more so then a machete just for the spring summer mouth to clear paths for camping and light fire wood prep but for easy splitting axes all day for chopping the big stuff
For me I have just bought a parang as I like the weight and balance as a woman. I went into the army surplus shop and tried all the knives and machetes. I used to use a special made machete which had a curve at the end it was made WW2 great balance loved it but did not belong to me so no longer can use it. So as a woman I do not like the balance of a machete but I also use a tomahawk taught by am late husband who was part Lakota Indian so he had the first hand knowledge. He also used his Bowie knife but I find it a little big for me.
I enjoyed that Ben 🙂 Great little film. Should definitely sell a few parangs on the back of that 👍. They look a really great multi use tool that would be a great bushcraft companion. I for one am interested in owning one after watching your film 👍. Nice one . Cheers, Rick
im two years late but never mind … im a Malay in Malaysia … the way i look at the parang is that its a no nonsense tool that i use to hack away at literally anything blocking my path of intent … it is a tool to be used and abused and a good parang will never complain … there’s a time when a parang have had enough and decides to fly away mid air leaving me with an empty hilt and wondering what i did wrong … we Malays also have axes knives and other tools as well as a myriad of other weapons designed for hand to hand combat … but when it comes to one companion to take into the bush, the parang is the one we go to … have a nice day brothers …
Great vid Ben,, what make is the parang ? Looks nice and compact,, i have a bidor heavy duty also a condor village parang,,love the compact look of the one you're using .
Neil, it's their own parang hence no real negative comments. A couple of "the axe is a little better" comments, but nothing really negative. Then again if you are advertising your own goods why would you? Orford Eban parang £415.00 vs Condor Mini Duke parang £94.95 from Heinnie Haynes - no contest really.
Yup, I customized a roofing type Axe chisel end and the reg. blad. Love it! But I also have a simple machete I cut a V shape on the spine side tip so I can hook branches with it. Much yard work clearing trees. The Machete is out 90% the axe is dug into a trunk so I can look at it and marvel over... If I were camping Id probably take the axe and make me a parang though. Good subject matter when you are doing hard work these details matter.
Well ya, but with a parang one would go about 1/2 down then attack from the sides. Different tool requires a different skill set. But as demonstrated I agree. Now, can you do it with a herring? For the younger people thats a Monty Python reference. I love an carry both (not at the same time) great video thank you.
It really does seem to be a case of selecting the right tool for the Job and the environment. the light duty tasks favour the Parang in the Summer months as opposed to the Axe for felling bulky limbs and processing them in the winter. Certainly food for thought next time I head off out.
Nice video I know it's old but I feel this is a argument that's been around forever. I personally find a ax not worth the weight. I usually carry a 6-9 inch fixed blade a folder and a saw blade. I use my knives to make a frame for my saw blade. It's worked for me for 35 years all over north America. I really think my way will work anywhere I could ever get lost. The only ax I will carry is a tomahawk an mainly its just for entertainment because I'd still carry my saw blade. It weights nothing but a bit of work and you can do anything.
I carry a parang most of the time when I carry a chopping tool at all. I'm usually hiking many miles so weight is important, and my parangs are all less than half a kilogram. In winter I use a wood handled parang about 5mm thick and the rest of the year use one about 3mm thick. I really only bring an axe if I will be pulling a pulk. Then the extra weight is not a issue.
There is a situation for each tool like you said. The work will really determine the most efficient tool. Nice video, enjoyed watching your techniques. One tool choice I will take the parang. Over all I will be using smaller pieces of timber
Axes are just a romantic idea for me. Plenty of deadfall and standing dead for fires. Easy ways to break them without tools. And simple configurations to burn them without bucking them up or bothering to split them. Unless I were building a log cabin I would never take an axe. I carry small knives and a saw, but am considering a machete type tool for clearing spots.
I think you’ve got it right. The ax is bigger, heavier, and wedge-shaped which is perfect for felling and limping trees. It is king for processing fire wood or building shelters. The parang is lighter, has a thin, sharp edge and is great for processing smaller diameter trees and limbs, and certainly better for processing tinder and making finer slices for spoons and camp tools. I personally dislike the 1-tool comparison discussion. The master woodsman is going to carry the tools he needs for the environment he is in. For instance, if you are in the SW desert of the U.S., the ax is relatively useless. If you are in the Boreal forests of Canada, the ax is indispensable. Some of the coastal adventures you and Lois frequently make, the ax is not useful. But, you didn’t mention the utility of the Buck saw. My Boy Scout training taught me to “be prepared” so I think the idea of “the right tool for the right job” makes the most sense. So, I would always carry the parang, the saw, a camp knife, and a carving knife. The ax is a limited use specialty tool to be carried a longer, deep woods adventures, or canoe trips.
Yes but you did start on a fresh part of the wood with the Parang towards the end of the cutting when you were nearly through the wood, which extended the time longer! The parang was invented, developed and used in its various forms and sizes by jungle peoples (Gurkhas among others) as the most practical and efficient tool for this purpose; and as used by a military friend friend of mine during the Malayan campaign (sadly now deceased) who swore by them, and as recommended by Lofty Wiseman and others with the experience of using them in much harsher conditions than the UK. If jungle people found them efficient for years and years, then they are more than effective for anything in Britain, and much lighter to carry than an axe. The parang looks a smaller type and was perhaps not as heavy as the axe which might affect its ability to split? You didn't mention whether they were both the same weight? Solution to splitting, buy a slightly larger parang! But for felling larger trees it would be the axe I think.
I found myself being critic of the same thing his cuts on the larger log with the parang could have been much quicker if he didn't insist on making a new slice everytime he reset.
I have a parang, an axe and silky big boy... The big boy is no.1 for dry wood but it is not survival tool on long run, parang on dry wood is just like baby on marathon but on live wood it is outstanding, soo an smaler axe is not perfect for save caloris but on long run it is good for everithing. Soo parang on your belt, axe in your pack and big boy in wife's hand is the best combo😄
It's so easy...Axes are for wood cutting...Parang for the jungle or bushes. It's all about the hype of survival and bushcraft...oh yeah and after the jungle you go to Aldi for groceries...
Ok a billhook is a agricultural tool like a short blades parang that often has different shaped blades for different regions within the united kingdom and used for woodland crafts and hedge laying etc. you can see me use them in our hedgelaying video on this channel 👍
@@BenOrford good for chopping wood. I have a pourtoguese Model Açores which is great in the garden, it has a very pronounced hook so I can make good pull cuts. The Roman model Marracio Roma or the French old~serpe de genie (army model) has a very short beak. A Parang though is very handy & versatile.
you can baton an axe too. and the best advantage is that you can baton axe head like a wedge from the side of the log without a need for flat saw cut ends.
One tool option in U.K. environment when u have a good sleeping bag for winter Chris Caine survival tool hands down it does everything for me especially shelter building and firewood, it does everything I need out there where a axe is limited also kukri and the Finnish skrama are excellent tools, just do everything well for the survivalist
BUT THE REAL QUESTION IS ? . . . . If you're going into the wilderness. I a SHTF SCENARIO you don't know how long you'll be there. Day , Weeks, Years. You have one pack you never know when or what's go to happen. SO YOU PACK MUST BE A 4 SEASON SET-UP. What would you take ! ( Remember : Spring Winter Summer & Fall ) . . . . . WHICH ONE !
Personally, I rather like a decent billhook rather than a parang, but I do sometimes use a machete, just a cheap Tramontina but it works well for me. The axe does have its place as demonstrated, but it's worth remembering that the Small Forest Axe is not an all-out splitting axe, being intended more for sending branches from felled trees. An axe also needs a lot more skill and practice to use well, As More Kochanski used to say, an axe is a good way to make your toes either longer or shorter. Nice to hear "batoning" pronounced properly for once.
Seems to me that when in the woods where that is all you have to work with more than one tool would-be required. A saw, a hatchet and a parang and your pocket knife. Yes I know that all that is heavy and takes up space but that would be your tools to survive.
Parang and a silky saw is my go too combo, and together it’s STILL LIGHTER than an axe!!!
Yeah, and he's out of breath because he kept messing with the Parang
@@mightymik3yb1008 God forbid you work and use energy in the woods cutting wood! bring your chainsaw oh wait you couldn't lift it.
@@mightymik3yb1008 Only really because he insisted on making the same type of cut as the axe and widening it all the time. The parang technique will usually be cutting from a couple of different angles and you’ll be through much faster. Lifelong parang users are super economical in their general technique. Plus, if you use a parang the same weight as the axe, say a heavy 12-15 inch you might be surprised at the increased chopping facility.
Add a small woodhandle mora to that and you’re covered and probably STILL lighter or about even….
Parang is just as quick as the axe if you were more accurate.. man you were doing double the work cuz you have shitty aim
living in a country with tropical rainforests (Malaysia), the parang is a must have. Largely because it is necessary to clear the dense undergrowth especially in areas where there are no fix trails. Nice comparison vid
Thanks a lot glad you enjoyed it. Many thanks for taking the time to comment cheers Ben
exactly! My fellow Americans don't know anything about (primary and secondary) forest/jungle! Plus the Amazing quickness of the growth of all vegetation.. i LOVE Malaysia
@@asintonicwelcome..🎉
Axe in the woods, parang in the jungle! Natural physics
Large knives were used all over the Europe. It all depends on what you are planning to do.
The parang is the best survival tool in the jungle. The axe is a luxury to fall and chop trees.
Nice run thro Ben exactly why I've carried a large blade and a small blade for over 30yrs as my out door cutting (was a large Khukuri and a locking SAK) now obviously its my own made stuff ( usually a large camp knife or full size parang ) . Add a folding saw to deal easily with larger limbs as you would an axe kit as well and its a perfect set for UK woodland use . I have brought an axe over the last 20 yrs or so but it's a GB carving axe for carving so a luxury add on with an Adze and crooked knife . Definatly a larger axe and buck saw for cold climates where the ability to process massive amounts of wood for heat which is where the Lars and Mors schools of bushcraft come from which is where a large part of modern bushcraft has grown out of
Also it depends with the whole "Forest" and "Jungle" thing. I live in heavily dense forest woods and a axe for trees makes sense, but since its so dense with shrubs and branches everywhere a parang would be best for my situation.
Edit: Love the video, very helpfull, indepth, and straight to the point.
Yeah, it all depends where you live and time of year. That said, I live in the Appalachians, so I need all the tools at some point throughout the year. Jungle-like in the summers. Then, right over to the other extremes of frozen, snowy, icy in the winters. Then, factor in the extremes of weather in between elevation changes in the same season.
I've lived in various parts of the Appalachians. The elevation issue is more noticeable in places like the Smokies. Here in PA now, our highest elevation is only 3500 ft but even the difference between 800 ft and 2600 ft is significant. I had one summer where it was blazing 90° all day, got up to around 2600 ft, and by night, a cold front blew in that brought sleet and freezing rain....dropped right down into the 30°'s F and quickly turned into an almost survival scenario if I didn't have the little bit of extra gear I had on me that night.
I've been working on an Appalachian tool kit that's part of my bushcraft/survival/bug out/whatever bag that isn't overly heavy but still packs a punch on tool needs and versatility.
So far, it's my 24" Tramontina machete (which I will never, ever part with, I'm a BIG machete guy Spring, Summer, early Fall), Cold Steel Trailhawk (tomahawk) to fill an "axe" role without being too large and heavy (if you know how, you can do some decent chopping and splitting for its small size), and a Silky Bigboy2000 saw. Small folding knife in the pocket.
Those three big (but relatively light) tools are around the same length, all long and slender, and fit next to each other pretty well. They all slide in a long canvas pouch together, and I can strap them to my pack (even a small pack) in various ways.
Sometimes I go back and forth switching out the hawk with my ESEE Junglas.....depending
In deep winter, I'd prefer a more substantial axe like my Gransfors Bruks Scandinavian Forest axe, but it just gets too heavy on foot after while, especially if I have a rifle with me.
Thanks a lot for this in-depth review of of the 2 most popular cutting tools.
Excellent video! Thanks
Thanks a lot glad you enjoyed it 👍
I don't own an actual parang, but I do have a Becker Kukri that I pack. But like you, the colder it gets, the more I carry an axe, or at least a heavy tomahawk. Great video
To those who don't know, Parang is the Indonesian language for Machete.
The right tool for the job. Common sense dictates that the tool used must suit the environment in which it is used.
An axe is good in every environment. :)
I would have thought a machete more suitable in a tropical rainforest. Though I have no personal experience.
@@MegaDapperman machetes are king in jungle
@@NKG416 I agree absolutely, but they would be useless in the Boreal forests of the North. Like I said, the right tool for the job.
@@MegaDapperman i am agreeing with you, no debate here
Nice work and video. You obviously have been using the tools a lot, your strikes are all consistent and precise . Greetings from Malaysia !
Yes.
A parang and a silky saw.
Great combo
I have a nice knife to augment my options.
Now, I have to start saving so I can purchase one of your parangs. Those are beautiful cutting tools. I also, want to get one of your left-handed spoof knives. Those are beauties too. Great channel. You and Lois are a great team. Ciao
Thanks a lot when your ready for one let us know. Many thanks cheers Ben
13 inch bladed Khukuri will get it all done. Not as efficiently as either tool, but it’ll do all of it without complaints 😊
It really depends on where you need to survive, if it's in a very dense wooded area and you want to build a log cabin, then an axe would be a great tool to have. If you were in a bamboo forest and wanted to build a light shelter then the parang would be preferable. But in a real life or death survival environment I would be happy with either, I would even thank God if I had a Buck 110
Damn straight!
Depending on the user... I prefer parang when I go to the jungle. I only use an axe to split the wood..
I don't know why so many associate an axe with "building a log cabin."
Do some northern winters outdoors and you'll quickly find out you need an axe for far less than building log cabins.
In deep winter, the ground is covered with snow and ice. The only accessible dry woods are "squaw wood", the dead branches at the bottom of pine trees and dead standing which needs to be felled, delimbed, bucked up, and split.
All that work for just a simple fire to keep you warm and survive. You're not going to get that kind of work out of lesser tools efficiently and in a timely matter. Using anything less than a medium sized axe will suck and drain you quickly. Make you sweat more. Make you use way more precious calories, minerals, etc.
Blades are much more prone to snapping in below freezing Temps and hard use. Even axe edges are prone to this but the thicker steel helps prevent this and you're supposed to warm the head under your armpit before use.
There are saws, which are great, but you always run the risk of snapping a saw blade in below freezing temperatures. OR, frozen hardwoods will actually dull a saw blade pretty quickly. Many times, (if you know how to use one) an axe is much quicker and less work than a saw, believe it or not.
Obviously, pack in the properly rated sleeping bag, and your tool choice doesn't matter much at all. I'm assuming we're discussing a scenario where you don't have or lost/damaged sleeping bag. A longterm survival scenario, etc
If I'm making a bug out bag that has a properly rated sleeping bag, yeah, then there's no need for an axe. You can just use a small or medium blade with a Bahco Laplander or something.
I've never heard of the technique of warming an axe blade or knife blade in the armpit, so thankyou, but luckily here in Britain our winters seldom get that cold, but thankyou for that piece of knowledge.@@pennsyltuckyreb9800
Your strikes are accurate and consistant. Wow.
lol i was about to say so and he blames the parang just saying: "a little bit slower"
I want to see a "Part Two" in a different environment.
RE splitting with the parang, if you'd skip the first blow and used it like a froe with a maul you'd have pissed through it
I guess Im asking the wrong place but does someone know of a method to log back into an Instagram account..?
I was dumb lost my password. I would love any assistance you can give me.
@Jackson Khalil instablaster :)
@Orion Jaziel Thanks so much for your reply. I got to the site through google and I'm trying it out atm.
Takes quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.
@Orion Jaziel it did the trick and I actually got access to my account again. Im so happy:D
Thanks so much you saved my ass !
@Jackson Khalil happy to help :)
Saw a tip on another channel when cutting saplings push the trunk away from you and then strike it with whatever edge tool you're using. It uses way less energy, I've done it myself since a few times. Gets around the issue of it wobbling when you hit it as well.
I use a parang in SW Florida. It does everything pretty well. The Axe is better for brute force hammering/splitting thick stuff.
When living in Alaska, I used a bolo machete.
In short terms u can do everything that u can do with an axe with a parang too its just that some tasks are easier for one and harder for the other
Love my Condor Village Parang...I use the axe at home but the Parang always goes with me into the woods.
I have a lightweight hatchet in my truck ammo can, but just purchased a parang to carry instead of the classic medium fixed blade knife. I like the ability to slash veggies out of my way, not so easy to do with your style ax, and the sheathed parang with the combination of a folding saw in my backpack is my choice for firewood gathering, site clearing, and brush removal on campsite and trails. Looks good for stake making, and I can always use a 3 inch diameter short log piece as a stake hammer, and for driving the parang for firewood splitting. I am 71 years old and looking for a way to lighten my pack/bugout bag/get home bag.
And thanks very much for your comparison! Makes me glad I bought a parang!
I like to carry my Silky Zubat saw along with either my axe, parang or just my woodlander knife, but it is horses for courses depending on where you are and what you are doing and what your mode of transport is, another good video Ben, thanks.
Hi Ben
I use a Elwell Rutland pattern Billhook, no curve 9” blade. A fabulous tool for all round use and the old tool steel holds a great edge and quick to resharpen. It’s an inexpensive alternative to a parang for those of us on a limited budget.
Really enjoyed the video and loved that Parang.
Got mine for a fiver. A French one but an awesome chopper with a very low angle edge.
Love axes. But long edge wins all day in my experience. If you are intending to drop big timber axe. Anything "bushcraft" a chopper wins.
That being said, I still carry my axe 🪓😎
👍 Extremely fair & practical tests.
To be honest I thought it was a draw between the 2 tools. Either would be sufficient if that is what one brought with them.
I have had good luck taking a small axe/hatchet along with a SAK. Both these tools work well for me in the same tasks you used in this video. In the Winter I had a saw.
Having said that, based on some interest in small machetes I have just ordered a parang with a 10-1/2” blade. I want to see if that would be an acceptable alternative to my axe/hatchet. I would still carry the SAK because I always carry an SAK. Carrying the parang might be more convenient than carrying my axe.
I enjoy your videos very much as they are a great help in moving along the learning curve for when my parang arrives.
How about comparing them to a traditional English Billhook?
I'd love to see that!
A billhook is designed for this environment - can you review one of those too?
Cuz billl books r shit and don't count
@@koaiaknl7013 unfortunately it's not the case for your vote
Right tool for the job. Parangs are the equivalent to a billhook in UK . The vegetation in Asia is different to Europe, but even they use billhooks for certain jobs. And axes. This parang is a good size to carry. And not a aggressive looking tool. Tidy looking parang! Nice vid.
well done , mate ....
I've grown quite fond of my 18" latin machete. It's a no-name product, but the steel is hardened well enough - it holds an edge ok and is springy/tough to take impact/torque/abuse. When it hits a stone, it is easily repaired with a file and/or pocket stone. I find that it is great for brush removal, while still being capable of cutting 2" branches without a problem. Paired with a knife, it's a good combo for the warmer seasons.
Hi Ben.
I always use parang or golok in the woods, also folding saw. I've never used axes bevore actually. In Indonesia the weather are dry or wet, only two season 😁
Rrrrrr4
Interesting video; it just depends on what your environment is. In any case a thought provoking video.
Hi Ben, I actually carry both the GB axe and your pocket Parang, great combo.
Cracking vid bud but I’m not sure I agree about the convex edge being awkward I have a few and get on fine with them.
For backpacking it’s been the Silky Zubat for firewood and krein bushcraft technical for playing around
I have both tools and my friend, I would have to say that they each have their place. I live in northern Canada, and I would have to say that if I had to take only one tool. It would be the axe. Only because of where I live and practicality. Especially in the winter when I have to process a lot of fire wood. But if I lived in a southern country I would take the machete. I would be partial on that even still. Mainly because I grew up using the axe mostly. I do like using my machete as well. Great video. I really enjoyed it👍
Can I ask what make and model of perang that is Ben?
Thanks 👍
Sure this is one of our Eban parangs in AEBL for a totally weather proof tool 👍
I'm from Borneo, and our parang is our go-to jungle tool, weapon, and all.
When designing we definitely drew inspiration from the incredible parangs from Borneo!
Great video, thanks. Personally I'd still go with the axe for the weight rather than using force.
In my neck of the woods, whenever I go out, I take my parang, a folding saw, and a tomahawk. I seldom find that I need a full fledged Axe. Their heavy, and just not needed unless I plan on building some sort of structure. I have owned one of Ben’s parang’s now for over two years, and I absolutely love it. If you’ve never held or worked with a parang, I highly recommend you give one a try, and I recommend one of Ben’s parang’s. Seriously, at least go checkout his website. -Stephen, Ohio 🇺🇸
The guy in the video apparently does not know the difference between an axe and a hatchet.
@@petrosspetrosgali yeah, those words are sometimes used interchangeably
@@redactedcanceledcensored6890
How is your rotator cuff doing.
I just found your channel and started watching a video .. So far i own one Gransfors Burk tool which is the Wildlife hatchet , wonderful tool and very well built .. When i go into the forest it always goes with me in a belt holster .. Very well done you have skills ..I also own a Kukri which i take with me but i find the Wildlife hatchet more useful as i can and do drive tent stakes with it.. I do like the Kukri and i feel it has it's place out there in the forest for a woods tool .. A lot of the times i carry both if i'm camped for a few days .. Great video ..
goodjob review brother
All around, The Parang, a Ben Orford Parang, on me short list. A solid smooth demo!.....ATB
Here's another one, why don't you attach a small sharpening stone to the kydex parang sheath ? as its an expensive item, it would make good sense to have the ability to maintain its sharpness
The parang is? Model?
Parang and saw, job done
So a bladed tool like a parang or machete is better in more lush jungle environments where there is more bush cutting, a hatchet is better for temperate forests where there isn't so much underbrush and more access to thicker deadfall timber.
Nowbody talks about the hardness, resistance of/ damage too the blade. I think an axe will resist longer and will be less damaged after chopping a tree... Never the less a good video
It's because this video is talking about the usage comparison. I mean, it's useless to use 100 years hardness Axe if people could do better/faster works using Parang. vice versa.
If we are doing what the large knife is intended to do meaning chop down max arm thick wood which it does better than axe I can't see why the relative durability on paper matters.
I work with a thick machete (Condor Engineer Bolo) in riparian forest and wetlands. It is a workhorse and cuts large timber with ease.
Tomahawk, Parang and a Buck 119 are always in my pack when venturing out and about. The Tomahawk is so much lighter than an Axe but can do 80% of an Axes work imo.
very useful vids. I like parang, too!
Hi there,
I live in the UK and I am looking for a cheap parang that does a job-helping me carve wood. I also need one to clear brush at my archery course, as well as just a general chopping tool. My hatchet is okay but I could do with something more accurate, but not a brilliant one like yours, something you could probably get for £20 or £40. As I have also purchased a new ferret, I need something like this to clear brush for rabbiting, but every place I have looked online is super expensive and even though I live just a stone's throw from the Lake District, the outdoors' shops are restricted on what they can sell now because of UK law AKA the three inch folding limit. Do you know of any online retailers based in the UK that have good equipment for a novice?
Oliver.
The parang doesnt bounce as much of thinner trees as an axe because of the weight distribution, which makes it safer and more efficient at that and you can perhaps put more force into the swing without risking a sudden downward cut because you miss or cut through - also shifting position and angling the cuts is easier because there is less need to change your aim.
i carry a 14 inch Latin machete tramontina its light enough to carry holds a good edge and is easy to sharpen and has a great price i also carry a single bit hatchet in the winter more so then a machete just for the spring summer mouth to clear paths for camping and light fire wood prep but for easy splitting axes all day for chopping the big stuff
For me I have just bought a parang as I like the weight and balance as a woman. I went into the army surplus shop and tried all the knives and machetes. I used to use a special made machete which had a curve at the end it was made WW2 great balance loved it but did not belong to me so no longer can use it. So as a woman I do not like the balance of a machete but I also use a tomahawk taught by am late husband who was part Lakota Indian so he had the first hand knowledge. He also used his Bowie knife but I find it a little big for me.
I enjoyed that Ben 🙂 Great little film. Should definitely sell a few parangs on the back of that 👍. They look a really great multi use tool that would be a great bushcraft companion. I for one am interested in owning one after watching your film 👍. Nice one . Cheers, Rick
im two years late but never mind … im a Malay in Malaysia … the way i look at the parang is that its a no nonsense tool that i use to hack away at literally anything blocking my path of intent … it is a tool to be used and abused and a good parang will never complain … there’s a time when a parang have had enough and decides to fly away mid air leaving me with an empty hilt and wondering what i did wrong … we Malays also have axes knives and other tools as well as a myriad of other weapons designed for hand to hand combat … but when it comes to one companion to take into the bush, the parang is the one we go to … have a nice day brothers …
Great vid Ben,, what make is the parang ? Looks nice and compact,, i have a bidor heavy duty also a condor village parang,,love the compact look of the one you're using .
Neil, it's their own parang hence no real negative comments. A couple of "the axe is a little better" comments, but nothing really negative. Then again if you are advertising your own goods why would you? Orford Eban parang £415.00 vs Condor Mini Duke parang £94.95 from Heinnie Haynes - no contest really.
Yup, I customized a roofing type Axe chisel end and the reg. blad. Love it! But I also have a simple machete I cut a V shape on the spine side tip so I can hook branches with it. Much yard work clearing trees. The Machete is out 90% the axe is dug into a trunk so I can look at it and marvel over... If I were camping Id probably take the axe and make me a parang though. Good subject matter when you are doing hard work these details matter.
I've been carrying a 12" parang for a while now. It really lightens the load
Axe for my area. Primarily hardwoods. That and a collapsible bow saw.
Witam można wymiary parang,obrys chcę zrobić samemu taką Maczeta
Well ya, but with a parang one would go about 1/2 down then attack from the sides. Different tool requires a different skill set. But as demonstrated I agree. Now, can you do it with a herring? For the younger people thats a Monty Python reference. I love an carry both (not at the same time) great video thank you.
maverick 44 ni
It really does seem to be a case of selecting the right tool for the Job and the environment. the light duty tasks favour the Parang in the Summer months as opposed to the Axe for felling bulky limbs and processing them in the winter. Certainly food for thought next time I head off out.
Thank you for this video. I would say in the forest prang is more useful than axe.
Nice video I know it's old but I feel this is a argument that's been around forever. I personally find a ax not worth the weight. I usually carry a 6-9 inch fixed blade a folder and a saw blade. I use my knives to make a frame for my saw blade. It's worked for me for 35 years all over north America. I really think my way will work anywhere I could ever get lost. The only ax I will carry is a tomahawk an mainly its just for entertainment because I'd still carry my saw blade. It weights nothing but a bit of work and you can do anything.
Who makes that parang?
Jaki są wymiary maczety
I carry a parang most of the time when I carry a chopping tool at all. I'm usually hiking many miles so weight is important, and my parangs are all less than half a kilogram. In winter I use a wood handled parang about 5mm thick and the rest of the year use one about 3mm thick. I really only bring an axe if I will be pulling a pulk. Then the extra weight is not a issue.
There is a situation for each tool like you said. The work will really determine the most efficient tool. Nice video, enjoyed watching your techniques. One tool choice I will take the parang. Over all I will be using smaller pieces of timber
I think you should be taking both.
Tool per demand. In SouthEast Asia, most of the time people use their traditional knives for jungle works.
You should try the condor Bushcraft parang. The story would be slightly different with that one.
Why
Axes are just a romantic idea for me. Plenty of deadfall and standing dead for fires. Easy ways to break them without tools. And simple configurations to burn them without bucking them up or bothering to split them. Unless I were building a log cabin I would never take an axe. I carry small knives and a saw, but am considering a machete type tool for clearing spots.
Thanks a lot for the informative vid guys!
However, I can't retrace the high price for your parang.
I'm always packing my K-bar on my hip and my Estwing half axe.
A larger parang may compete with the ax felling saplings a tad better...no?
I think you’ve got it right. The ax is bigger, heavier, and wedge-shaped which is perfect for felling and limping trees. It is king for processing fire wood or building shelters. The parang is lighter, has a thin, sharp edge and is great for processing smaller diameter trees and limbs, and certainly better for processing tinder and making finer slices for spoons and camp tools. I personally dislike the 1-tool comparison discussion. The master woodsman is going to carry the tools he needs for the environment he is in. For instance, if you are in the SW desert of the U.S., the ax is relatively useless. If you are in the Boreal forests of Canada, the ax is indispensable. Some of the coastal adventures you and Lois frequently make, the ax is not useful. But, you didn’t mention the utility of the Buck saw. My Boy Scout training taught me to “be prepared” so I think the idea of “the right tool for the right job” makes the most sense. So, I would always carry the parang, the saw, a camp knife, and a carving knife. The ax is a limited use specialty tool to be carried a longer, deep woods adventures, or canoe trips.
Try cutting out a tree stump and roots with a parang then do the same test with the axe ...?
Great video Guys very informative.
I’m watching this while carrying a Condor K-tac kukri
A kukri is a hell of a tool. Watch this space…
If it has a pointed tip, you can stick a piece of wood to the tip of a parang machete or knife, and use it as a drawknife.
Yes but you did start on a fresh part of the wood with the Parang towards the end of the cutting when you were nearly through the wood, which extended the time longer! The parang was invented, developed and used in its various forms and sizes by jungle peoples (Gurkhas among others) as the most practical and efficient tool for this purpose; and as used by a military friend friend of mine during the Malayan campaign (sadly now deceased) who swore by them, and as recommended by Lofty Wiseman and others with the experience of using them in much harsher conditions than the UK. If jungle people found them efficient for years and years, then they are more than effective for anything in Britain, and much lighter to carry than an axe. The parang looks a smaller type and was perhaps not as heavy as the axe which might affect its ability to split? You didn't mention whether they were both the same weight? Solution to splitting, buy a slightly larger parang! But for felling larger trees it would be the axe I think.
I found myself being critic of the same thing his cuts on the larger log with the parang could have been much quicker if he didn't insist on making a new slice everytime he reset.
carry both.
I have a parang, an axe and silky big boy... The big boy is no.1 for dry wood but it is not survival tool on long run, parang on dry wood is just like baby on marathon but on live wood it is outstanding, soo an smaler axe is not perfect for save caloris but on long run it is good for everithing. Soo parang on your belt, axe in your pack and big boy in wife's hand is the best combo😄
It's so easy...Axes are for wood cutting...Parang for the jungle or bushes. It's all about the hype of survival and bushcraft...oh yeah and after the jungle you go to Aldi for groceries...
Cold Steel Kukri and silky saw with hunter swiss army knife multi tool. ☝️😎
Billhook?
Ok a billhook is a agricultural tool like a short blades parang that often has different shaped blades for different regions within the united kingdom and used for woodland crafts and hedge laying etc.
you can see me use them in our hedgelaying video on this channel 👍
@@BenOrford good for chopping wood. I have a pourtoguese Model Açores which is great in the garden, it has a very pronounced hook so I can make good pull cuts.
The Roman model Marracio Roma or the French old~serpe de genie (army model) has a very short beak.
A Parang though is very handy & versatile.
you can baton an axe too. and the best advantage is that you can baton axe head like a wedge from the side of the log without a need for flat saw cut ends.
major safety issue with side chopping using your leg so near the axe..
You certainly have to be careful but if you use the technique I use in this video your doing it safely 👍
Never leave home without your parang, if you live in the jungle.
One tool option in U.K. environment when u have a good sleeping bag for winter Chris Caine survival tool hands down it does everything for me especially shelter building and firewood, it does everything I need out there where a axe is limited also kukri and the Finnish skrama are excellent tools, just do everything well for the survivalist
BUT THE REAL QUESTION IS ? . . . . If you're going into the wilderness. I a SHTF SCENARIO you don't know how long you'll be there. Day , Weeks, Years. You have one pack you never know when or what's go to happen. SO YOU PACK MUST BE A 4 SEASON SET-UP.
What would you take ! ( Remember : Spring Winter Summer & Fall ) . . . . . WHICH ONE !
Both are different tools for the efficiency of different tasks though.
Personally, I rather like a decent billhook rather than a parang, but I do sometimes use a machete, just a cheap Tramontina but it works well for me. The axe does have its place as demonstrated, but it's worth remembering that the Small Forest Axe is not an all-out splitting axe, being intended more for sending branches from felled trees. An axe also needs a lot more skill and practice to use well, As More Kochanski used to say, an axe is a good way to make your toes either longer or shorter. Nice to hear "batoning" pronounced properly for once.
Seems to me that when in the woods where that is all you have to work with more than one tool would-be required. A saw, a hatchet and a parang and your pocket knife. Yes I know that all that is heavy and takes up space but that would be your tools to survive.
I use an Ontario 18inch GI machete or a Hmong blade for most things. I use a Scout sized axe or a Russian axe for larger stuff.
Knife. Axe and folding saw for me. A lot times it’s much faster and easier on the body to just saw most of it