I've had an Ontario 18" for years. I've abused the hell out of it...batoned big pieces of hardwood...watched the blade bend and twist and always return to normal. Great for clearing brush and it makes short work as a chopper on smaller trees and limbs. I carry a Lansky puck...takes just a couple minutes to restore the edge. A real workhorse machete.
i bought a 5 dollar machete from harbor freight for yard work and out of all the tools i had to use, it was the most useful and made the job exponentially easier
I use a Kabar Kurkri as a Machete and it works very well in the north woods. A blade length of 11.5 weight of 1.3 lbs is just about ideal. The longer tropical machetes don't work well in a temperate forest setting. I have shortened traditional long machetes in the past but may as well purchase a better tool from the start.
I've got a machete that prisoners at Angola State Penitintary in Louisiana used to use. I found it on the side of a shell road in the country where they used chain gangs to keep the ditches and roadways clean and also were farmed out to local cane growers. It is an awesome machete that was cheap to make but is still a very useful tool. It has a 20" blade and 2 1/2" wide at the widest cutting edge near the tip, which is a regular curved pointed tip. I estimate that it is at least 80 years old, but maybe even older. The handle is made from the same material they used on automobile knobs back in the 20s to the 40s. It's not plastic but is sorta plastic like. I forget what they called it. Maybe bakerlite or something like that.
I've carried a machete since I was about 10 years old. As a kid, I would disappear into the woods with a WW2 machete I had a blacksmith reshape to a spear point blade, a pocket knife, and my trusty .22LR Remington single shot bolt action rifle. If I planned to be out overnight I'd add a blanket roll with a stainless steel pot and canteen+cup. That was about 60 years ago. Since then I got heavily into primitive survival in my early 20s, sold knives off and on since the early 1980s. I have even given survival seminars and lectured on pros and cons of rifles for survival. The main points I have made over that entire time were: 1. _Everyone_ needs to learn primitive survival. -- If the electricity that is the basis of our modern technological civilization went off tomorrow, how would you live? If you are out camping or boating and you get lost or a disaster makes returning home for a while or longer impossible, how would you live? Both of these are very real possibilities. -- Personally I believe primitive survival (meaning at a minimum "hiking and camping without the use of modern equipment") should be offered as an option in grade school through college in place of PE (physical education). It not only teaches self reliance, as well as working with others, but it teaches how to live through disasters. 2. No single knife will do everything you need in the backcountry. -- A small knife, fixed or folding blade, will do about 75 to 80% of your in-camp tasks. But it is a small knife, and there are larger tasks it simply cannot and never was intended to handle. -- You need at least two (2) bladed tools, and my suggestion is a pocket knife and a 12" to 18" machete. I typically carry a 14" spear point or Latin style machete. My favorite "field knife", meaning large general purpose edged tool, in addition to a machete, is an older Cold Steel spear point machete with a 12" blade and rubberized handle that fits my hand better than any other knife I've ever owned. Sadly it is long out of production. Actually, i do not consider anything less than 14" a machete; it is just a belt knife. -- I have at least a dozen belt knives I tended to rotate through when I was still camping a bit, that included Nepalese khukuris, custom and production military blades, survival and primitive blades (some used for Historical Reenactment and Living History of the Fur Trade period), and fighting blades that also work well for survival and trekking. As I said, no single knife will do everything that you need a knife for when far from civilization, where it becomes your primary tool. -- When asked what would my "single tool option" be if I could choose only one, I usually say "a machete but no single tool will do everything you need, so I prefer two knives at a minimum". It is said all in one breath, because it is a single thought they need to learn. Could I live in the wilderness with only a machete? Yes. Could I live in the wilderness with only a pocket knife? Probably, but it would be harder. I'd rather not try. One of my first tasks would be to make a larger knife from a flit-like rock and probably an rock headed axe. Cutting, chopping, and digging toola are high on my to do list in such a scenario. They make shelter building and wood processing much more efficient. 3. _NEVER_ walk away from your vehicle in the woods, mountains, or desert without a minimal pocket survival kit. The more you know of primitive survival, the less you need in that kit. For many years my pocket survival kit consisted of a Doan Fire Starter (the original military issue magnesium block with a ferrocerium rod set into one long edge - sadly Doan is no more) and a Swiss Army Knife lashed together by a short length of leather bootlace. Of course I carried more depending on the circumstance, but those two items were always in my left side pocket when I was at work as an elecrtonics tech to senior electrical engineer over the course of my career, on duty station or deployed when I was in the reserves, and of course in the course of traveling or camping. They were ALWAYS on me, until stupid air travel rules made me put them in my check-in baggage during the flight.
I have had a 12" Tromatina for years. Can't beat the price and the quality is there. Also have the Woodsman's Pal. It is a tough customer but I don't want to carry it far. Heavy duty and plain heavy. Great if you are riding a horse, atv or other off road vehicle. Of course I have other machetes and even the Golok from Condor.
I have the Condor Golok machete, and I've very fond of it. A good chopper and heavy enough that the blade will do most of the work. So all you really have to do is keep it aimed, and a bit of a swing with your arm. Light weight machete's just tire me out. Good selection.
$140+ for a machete? OK...Just a few days ago I got a fantastic Made in Colombia Gavilan brand 20 inch machete online from a US dealer for less than $10. It has a real nice sword-like “ching” sound to it when you chop with it. Works great. One of the very best deals going anywhere.
What gets me is that after living in central America is that a $10 machete from any local hardware store that is 20-30" long gets way more done. I can chop a coco, mow the grass, even cut a 50' tree down. yes with effort, but when I stopped being an overconsuming American ass many new prospects of life were born.
Having grown up my first 10 years on an island in the Pacific, most everyone carried a 18 or longer standard machete. It was amazing what they could do with them. Just about everything and probably more that I never saw. So that's what I had and used. This was in the 50s. So that's what I used. After I had my original one got stolen, I replaced it when I went back to the island when I was 12. I still have it. It has been well used. For me that is what I'm comfortable with and that's what I will always use. My machete may be the only one around that has slapped a bear in the face ! Another story.
I went with a Tops El Chete for short machete carry. It’s heavy/ but I know it won’t fail. I had an over the shoulder leather sheath made for me by a guy in Kodiak, AK.
I'm a TOPS fan, I always like overbuilt rugged gear, The El Chete is outstanding, Its like a heavyweight boxer with seven PhD's (hits hard, and is very sharp) Its like a Lightsaber without the batteries its like a Scalpel had a baby with a meat cleaver Its like Chuck Norris's razor blade its like if you own one of these, and somebody mentions any other machete, you think "Cool Story Bro" but you never say it out loud, just because you pity them,
Ontario 18" mil spec I got for $40 The sheath I got for $60 I've had it for over 30 years and it still chops down small trees as good as the first day I got it. Props to Ontario.
Professional camera, professional microphone, professional attitude, and on top of those, very informative contents. I learned a lot about what to consider when I choose a survival machete. I love this TV.
a year ago I researched many comments and opinions. Weighed all the advantages and disadvantages. I settled on the Condor parang style Mini Duku and have been very pleased. a forward lanyard hole would be a nice addition to the Mini Duku. Otherwise it chops, cuts, shaves and can be used as a draw knife beautifully. The aft drop bulbous handle knob is a life saver as it can or may aid in still using the machete if you have injuries.
Great information and thanks for the video. For what it's worth I purchased a Condor Machete several years ago (don't know the model) and have used it extensively for cleaning up my property. The thing is a true soldier.
When I was in the market for one I was torn between the cold steel or the schrade that's about the same. I settled on the schrade and it's been about 4 years and it's been abused and still like new like a tank. The handle I love!
Just made switch to using a 12 inch machete as my default large blade for camping. Liking it a lot so far. Small knife and small machete are a dream team. Tramontina 12 inch and esee izula.
Cool video again David. I have the C.Steel Kukri Machete. It has been with me for three years now and I`m very happy with it. Agree that every blade here will do the job.
Thanks for everything David. I love machetes. Can't go wrong. I already own several Condor machetes along with several of Joe Flower's design. My favorite when it comes to quality blades. I am continuing to add more on to my collection. Take care Bro.
The absolute best machete was the Cold Steel Heavy Terrain Chopper. But, Cold Steel stopped making it close to 20- years ago. My personal Heavy Terrain Chopper is around 25 years old.
I have and like the Ka-Bar 1249. Fills all chopping requirements when an axe or hatchet is too much weight and does fill some carving type demands just forward of the grip, as well. I carry a short fixed blade for the rest of my more delicate and hygienic cutting needs. Good review, thanks.
I like several of them but the Cold Steel Kukri is by far my favorite & yes the price does play a big part in that as will as they steel being easy to touch up.
im from colombia and i use a 8 dollar colombian machete in the jungle. and it never fails me and believe me if you are in the jungle you'll need something light and longer, 22 inches is perfect
I've owned a few, but the Condor Golok is in a league of it's own. Superior in every department for every use... and hands down the one I want in the zombie apocalypse ;)
Cold Steel is super underrated imo. I have a few of their offerings and hold their own against some of the top shelf knife/tool companies. As always great reviews!!! Love the knowledge and super easy to follow and listen to.
These are all great choices. I generally prefer the 14" size machetes. I like the Imacasa 14" bolo. Cheap, but great. Needs grip wrapped, sharpened, sheath made. 1st third of blade from handle isn't sharp. This let's you grab the dull blade section. Held there, it balances between index and middle fingers for nimble use on small tasks. Has unique sharpened spoon tip shape useful for digging, scraping hollow shapes, concave back edge good for hanging vines. Weighs 19 oz with duct tape sheath.
For myself I Absolutely love the Cold Steal kurki it's easy to sharpen chops like a dream with the heavy end and throwing it . it sticks in deep . I took a fill to the too end and made a sharp top aproximently 2.5 " to help with a backslash when using it for close quarters action in fighting. Also flipped around and using the blunt back side it will break bones easily . If my life depends on just 1 blade of defense and working in the bush it's Cold Steal every time .
If you like the compact's,Brusletto makes a Epic one that Condor also just put out similar model for much less...I have not tried Condor's but it looks same spec as the Brusletto ....Wild Woman Bushcraft totes in Bavarian Alps....Condor Iron Path...I to also like a compact on a hike or in orchard,rather than a 3rd leg.lol..
Im a chef, got pleeeenty of knives but...no machete😥🤔 Alas, a bit tricky to get one in UK, at present. (Lockdown and all.) Superb machetes! 🤗🤗🤗 love them all😍
My friend in Telford,got in trouble for toting fruit knife to cut her lunch apple...Sad......Word to God,never happen in USA...But scared,Gun Glorification in Culture will ruin it on everyone..Street CRAPPERS culture....Culture,not Color....Hope you guys get your rights returned..
I have the Tops .170, I find it a bit short and the sheath looks to busy. Still a great solid machete. I bought the Condor Makara for when I need a longer reach or help with social distancing
This was a good comparison presentation. I agree there is no outstanding one tool option (that I’ve found). That said, after using a machete and traditional kukri I prefer the kukri. It seems to work better for the conditions I find in my area. It processes wood up to 3” diameter well and cuts vines and grass easily. When I intend to spend extended time time in the wild I will carry the kukri paired with a smaller companion knife or tomahawk/hatchet.
I have the original ltc kukri by cold steel from the 90's i think. It has kraton handle and I think a carbon V steel blade at 1/8" thickness. It has been used and abused and I still love it. It chops better than a much bigger blade. Also I own 6 of the new Cold Steel machetes and would absolutely recommend them. Your description is spot on as far as I little rough around the edges but a great value plus they're not made in china but rather south africa. The 2 handed Thai machete is perhaps my favorite.
I am not a Mechete knowledgeable person......but for some reason I like that Lt. Wright. As you were speaking I imagineded myself forcing more patina on the blade at home.
Hard to beat a Woodsman Pal. especially the older models. Haven't seen anything in video that the WPal couldn't do just as efficiently. Have enjoyed mine since 1986. Although they are very proud of it as new ones cost +$150.00 and don't have the hand guard. I also have a Condor Commando machete (which doesn't get very high marks from a lot of people) however it's my go to machete when cutting anyting of thickness over 4"-6" in diameter. Rock solid blade.stays super sharp so doesn't vibrate when cutting.
Great videos, many thanks. Would you mind doing a short one to cover the different terminology used that sounds so alien to novices like me? ... that'd truly be appreciated, thank you.
Ive had a camp 10 scense 2016. Very good chopper. Got a small edge deflection from hitting hard wood and it doesent stay sharp for long when doing heavy chopping which makes me think that the steel could be better but not bad. It was a perfect choice for my first large knife.
Good review! I have a Tops Machete .230 and like it quite a bit. But as with most Tops knives, it needed a 90-degree spine, my Worksharp did the trick. IMO, ALL "survival" knives must have a 90-degree spine!! Fox knives does make good knives as well!
I did think I wanted the Darian for awhile now. But now I want the L.T. Wright Overland badly lol! I'm in lust...yea I know probably not supposed to list after blades tools, but I love cutlery! I'm obsessed! 😻😸😼
I've got the 18" Ontario Military issue from the sixties...really like it but I thought about getting a pro to shorten it a bit and install a new handle that fits my hand a little better.
I have the Ontario military machete , here in western Canada I only use it for hacking back the weeds . Was a fun purchase from a military surplus store .
Bark River Golok with upswept point is mine (though one with the spear point, not too dissimilar to the overland machete, would probably be the smarter choice). i think in general, well made and smartly designed Goloks and Parangs (i.e. not too big so it's well balanced and can be used for finer tasks without fear of injury, but not too small so it can chop effectively) are by far the best "1 tool option". on a budget, i think i'd go with a Condor Mini Duku or a Varustelka Skrama (i think the former is a slightly better design, while the latter has superior steel)
@@someimmature12yearold81 Manuel, Hellen Keller was an amazing woman, but she was blind. That CS machete looked as though no one QCed on its path through production.
I have two Condor machetes: The Golok (featured here), and the Parang. Both are the 1095 1/4" steel, both have the leather sheath and black blade coating for protection. The fit and finish on these are good. I did grumble a bit about the edge grind on both of them. On the Parang, I found a 30 degree grind at the heel of the blade, and about a 17 degree grind near the tip (backward in my thinking). On both blades, I had to spend about an hour's worth of work on my Work Sharp Ken Onion (with tool attachment) to re-profile the edge to remove the inconsistent grind angles along the length of each blade. I finally stopped at one point on the Parang, simply because of the amount of material which would need removed to put that 17 degree to a 20 degree. Both blades (however) took an edge very well, and I was able to bring each of them to shaving sharp. I have not had an opportunity to test the edge retention after bringing them to that level of sharpness. I agree, you'll need to make friends with the notion that you're not buying a really sharp blade from the factory, but with some work, they can be brought to your liking. I treat all of my leather with "Bick 4" conditioner to feed the leather... and found (by accident) that the wood on both of these machetes drank in the conditioner and gave me a very nice (richer color) finish to look at, and to feel in the hand. This did not diminish the grip of the tool in hand either... may have even improved it a bit. Great tools for brush control. Love them both.
RatdogDRB A short correction: Bothe the Golok and the Parang are made of 1075, not 1095. When these two blades came out (they're really early designs still selling well, that should say something about their value) Conor was ONLY offering 1075 in their big blades, but 440C in one or two of their smaller knives. Today they're offering quite a few knives in 1095 (I think they call it 1095HC) but the Golok and Parang are both still 1075. I cut the tip off of my Golok so it now has a straight clip point, and like you I brought down the almost obtuse angle of the bevel. The Parang was a tiny bit better than the Golok, but both were MUCH thicker edges than any axe I've ever owned. They're just WAY too blunt for my taste, but no complaint about the quality. For the price, they can't be beat.
I prefer the Condor Eco Parang, esp for the shape of the grip which locks your hand in both front and back. I think it’s discontinued now, but has been replaced with a similar model.
The condor crock with the rolled handle looks like you could shape large tree branch to slide into the handle for longer reach ,or for hunting Hogs or anything you might want to take a swing at .however the Bush mondo would definitely be my pick of the lot and love that sheath .
I use my Machete when I am mowing the lawn so I can trim back those nasty wild berry bushes, poison oak, or low hanging branches on trees in the yard. Works well when you have forest surrounding your lawn. Also like to use it when I hike the property so I can keep my deer trails etc. open so I can walk through those areas.
Did that first Condor Machete have a crack in the blade right near the main belly part of the blade? As the blade was being filmed I noticed it but I thought that it could just be a small hair on the edge of the blade. The hair theory is not too far out there since the blades always ship with a generous amount of oil to keep the blade from rusting during shipping and the oil frequently gets sticky being able to hold onto a hair.
I have a 10'' Ozark Trail Machete, yet I don't know what steel it uses, though it appears to be stainless steel. I also got an 18'' high carbon steel machete by Landscaper's Select and it's very promising.
My favorite is unfortunately not made anymore. The Ontario Blackie Collins bowie with D handle. I am looking to replace the rivets as they keep coming loose tho..
Nicely done... I'm still waiting for a good golok design. Something with good blade width, balance and a good handle designed for retention/non slip. 🙏
I think I liked that Fox Parang the best. My favorite Machete would be my Power Eagle 12 from TOPS. Seems I use it more often than any other knife besides my edc. My favorite One Tool Option Machete would be my TOPS Armageddon (my favorite knife overall from any maker). It would have fit right in with those knives on your table there.
Being one that spends a lot of time in the jungle, two things matter most to me. (1.) how quickly I can get my blade ready. Like I said, with spending much time in the jungle you run into a whole mess of situations. Two being eople and predatory animals, if I’m in a rough spot I want to be able to quip myself as quick as possible. Having to unbuckle kinda puts a downer on the situation. (2.) durability, when it comes to cutting bone and wood I want something that can hold up. The question is what exactly does that job and more?
I've had an Ontario 18" for years. I've abused the hell out of it...batoned big pieces of hardwood...watched the blade bend and twist and always return to normal. Great for clearing brush and it makes short work as a chopper on smaller trees and limbs. I carry a Lansky puck...takes just a couple minutes to restore the edge. A real workhorse machete.
Agreed, I have a tramontina and a file to restore the edge. Thing has seen and done way more than I’d ever expect a $15 machete to accomplish lol.
i bought a 5 dollar machete from harbor freight for yard work and out of all the tools i had to use, it was the most useful and made the job exponentially easier
No Tramontina ?
My grandfather has the kukri machete and he loves it its not just for bushcraft but for cutting, thrashing, slicing and stabing
I use a Kabar Kurkri as a Machete and it works very well in the north woods. A blade length of 11.5 weight of 1.3 lbs is just about ideal. The longer tropical machetes don't work well in a temperate forest setting. I have shortened traditional long machetes in the past but may as well purchase a better tool from the start.
I've got a machete that prisoners at Angola State Penitintary in Louisiana used to use. I found it on the side of a shell road in the country where they used chain gangs to keep the ditches and roadways clean and also were farmed out to local cane growers. It is an awesome machete that was cheap to make but is still a very useful tool. It has a 20" blade and 2 1/2" wide at the widest cutting edge near the tip, which is a regular curved pointed tip. I estimate that it is at least 80 years old, but maybe even older. The handle is made from the same material they used on automobile knobs back in the 20s to the 40s. It's not plastic but is sorta plastic like. I forget what they called it. Maybe bakerlite or something like that.
Do you have a model number or something?
Bakelite
I've carried a machete since I was about 10 years old. As a kid, I would disappear into the woods with a WW2 machete I had a blacksmith reshape to a spear point blade, a pocket knife, and my trusty .22LR Remington single shot bolt action rifle. If I planned to be out overnight I'd add a blanket roll with a stainless steel pot and canteen+cup.
That was about 60 years ago. Since then I got heavily into primitive survival in my early 20s, sold knives off and on since the early 1980s. I have even given survival seminars and lectured on pros and cons of rifles for survival. The main points I have made over that entire time were:
1. _Everyone_ needs to learn primitive survival.
-- If the electricity that is the basis of our modern technological civilization went off tomorrow, how would you live? If you are out camping or boating and you get lost or a disaster makes returning home for a while or longer impossible, how would you live? Both of these are very real possibilities.
-- Personally I believe primitive survival (meaning at a minimum "hiking and camping without the use of modern equipment") should be offered as an option in grade school through college in place of PE (physical education). It not only teaches self reliance, as well as working with others, but it teaches how to live through disasters.
2. No single knife will do everything you need in the backcountry.
-- A small knife, fixed or folding blade, will do about 75 to 80% of your in-camp tasks. But it is a small knife, and there are larger tasks it simply cannot and never was intended to handle.
-- You need at least two (2) bladed tools, and my suggestion is a pocket knife and a 12" to 18" machete. I typically carry a 14" spear point or Latin style machete. My favorite "field knife", meaning large general purpose edged tool, in addition to a machete, is an older Cold Steel spear point machete with a 12" blade and rubberized handle that fits my hand better than any other knife I've ever owned. Sadly it is long out of production. Actually, i do not consider anything less than 14" a machete; it is just a belt knife.
-- I have at least a dozen belt knives I tended to rotate through when I was still camping a bit, that included Nepalese khukuris, custom and production military blades, survival and primitive blades (some used for Historical Reenactment and Living History of the Fur Trade period), and fighting blades that also work well for survival and trekking. As I said, no single knife will do everything that you need a knife for when far from civilization, where it becomes your primary tool.
-- When asked what would my "single tool option" be if I could choose only one, I usually say "a machete but no single tool will do everything you need, so I prefer two knives at a minimum". It is said all in one breath, because it is a single thought they need to learn. Could I live in the wilderness with only a machete? Yes. Could I live in the wilderness with only a pocket knife? Probably, but it would be harder. I'd rather not try. One of my first tasks would be to make a larger knife from a flit-like rock and probably an rock headed axe. Cutting, chopping, and digging toola are high on my to do list in such a scenario. They make shelter building and wood processing much more efficient.
3. _NEVER_ walk away from your vehicle in the woods, mountains, or desert without a minimal pocket survival kit. The more you know of primitive survival, the less you need in that kit. For many years my pocket survival kit consisted of a Doan Fire Starter (the original military issue magnesium block with a ferrocerium rod set into one long edge - sadly Doan is no more) and a Swiss Army Knife lashed together by a short length of leather bootlace. Of course I carried more depending on the circumstance, but those two items were always in my left side pocket when I was at work as an elecrtonics tech to senior electrical engineer over the course of my career, on duty station or deployed when I was in the reserves, and of course in the course of traveling or camping. They were ALWAYS on me, until stupid air travel rules made me put them in my check-in baggage during the flight.
I have had a 12" Tromatina for years. Can't beat the price and the quality is there. Also have the Woodsman's Pal. It is a tough customer but I don't want to carry it far. Heavy duty and plain heavy. Great if you are riding a horse, atv or other off road vehicle. Of course I have other machetes and even the Golok from Condor.
I have the Condor Golok machete, and I've very fond of it. A good chopper and heavy enough that the blade will do most of the work. So all you really have to do is keep it aimed, and a bit of a swing with your arm. Light weight machete's just tire me out. Good selection.
Turned out to be an excellent thrower, so bought 2 more a few years ago for a throwing set [$50-$55 back then].... ;o)
I love the Ontario and Cold Steel for budget options. Would like to see a shootout of all of these being used in the field.
$140+ for a machete? OK...Just a few days ago I got a fantastic Made in Colombia Gavilan brand 20 inch machete online from a US dealer for less than $10. It has a real nice sword-like “ching” sound to it when you chop with it. Works great. One of the very best deals going anywhere.
Me before video: "Jesus, a 20 minute video about machetes? Really?" :-/
Me after video: "Oh my God I need a machete!"
What gets me is that after living in central America is that a $10 machete from any local hardware store that is 20-30" long gets way more done. I can chop a coco, mow the grass, even cut a 50' tree down. yes with effort, but when I stopped being an overconsuming American ass many new prospects of life were born.
20 minute video is just scratching the surface. There are so many specific machetes for different uses it’s insane.
Having grown up my first 10 years on an island in the Pacific, most everyone carried a 18 or longer standard machete. It was amazing what they could do with them. Just about everything and probably more that I never saw. So that's what I had and used. This was in the 50s. So that's what I used. After I had my original one got stolen, I replaced it when I went back to the island when I was 12. I still have it. It has been well used. For me that is what I'm comfortable with and that's what I will always use. My machete may be the only one around that has slapped a bear in the face ! Another story.
Machete was the original multi-tool!
@@knifecenterAnd still is in a lot of other countries.
Did the bear slap back? 😅. In most fights the bear wins.
@@billh.1940 ran off. Bears dont like surprises.
I went with a Tops El Chete for short machete carry. It’s heavy/ but I know it won’t fail. I had an over the shoulder leather sheath made for me by a guy in Kodiak, AK.
I totally want the El Chete!
Just a cleaver, odd shape
Who got the sill idea a machete would make a good chopper? Machetes are for clearing brush.
@@petrosspetrosgali Sill ?
I'm a TOPS fan, I always like overbuilt rugged gear,
The El Chete is outstanding,
Its like a heavyweight boxer with seven PhD's (hits hard, and is very sharp)
Its like a Lightsaber without the batteries
its like a Scalpel had a baby with a meat cleaver
Its like Chuck Norris's razor blade
its like if you own one of these, and somebody mentions any other machete, you think "Cool Story Bro" but you never say it out loud, just because you pity them,
Ontario 18" mil spec I got for $40
The sheath I got for $60
I've had it for over 30 years and it still chops down small trees as good as the first day I got it.
Props to Ontario.
Professional camera, professional microphone, professional attitude, and on top of those, very informative contents. I learned a lot about what to consider when I choose a survival machete. I love this TV.
i just bought my second ka-bar kukri machete. best blade IVE ever owned
I have argued this very thing about a short machete for a long, long time. Condor Mini Duku Parang belongs on this list.
completely agree. Probably my favorite machete out of the 10 I own lol
@@hb6747 The thing is pretty close to perfection.
I got one, but the fiddleback forge machete is most probabaly better than all on this list.
a year ago I researched many comments and opinions. Weighed all the advantages and disadvantages. I settled on the Condor parang style Mini Duku and have been very pleased. a forward lanyard hole would be a nice addition to the Mini Duku. Otherwise it chops, cuts, shaves and can be used as a draw knife beautifully. The aft drop bulbous handle knob is a life saver as it can or may aid in still using the machete if you have injuries.
LOVE a MACHETE...! The Original POWER TOOL!!!
Love it!
These are great reviews, your knowledge and presentation style are outstanding. Glad I tuned in!!! Regards, Jimp
Yeah this guy is really cool and easy to understand and listen to. Great delivery.
32"mower blade
.....brought to you by cold steel, haha
You like dem mustard n biscuits????😬
I used a 24" and made a machete once..
That's exactly what I source my machete and bigger blade knives from.. amazing blades when done right!
Sling blade 😅
Great information and thanks for the video. For what it's worth I purchased a Condor Machete several years ago (don't know the model) and have used it extensively for cleaning up my property. The thing is a true soldier.
When I was in the market for one I was torn between the cold steel or the schrade that's about the same. I settled on the schrade and it's been about 4 years and it's been abused and still like new like a tank. The handle I love!
Just made switch to using a 12 inch machete as my default large blade for camping. Liking it a lot so far. Small knife and small machete are a dream team. Tramontina 12 inch and esee izula.
Cool video again David. I have the C.Steel Kukri Machete. It has been with me for three years now and I`m very happy with it. Agree that every blade here will do the job.
Love all these machetes..
Thanks for everything David. I love machetes. Can't go wrong. I already own several Condor machetes along with several of Joe Flower's design. My favorite when it comes to quality blades. I am continuing to add more on to my collection. Take care Bro.
The absolute best machete was the Cold Steel Heavy Terrain Chopper. But, Cold Steel stopped making it close to 20- years ago. My personal Heavy Terrain Chopper is around 25 years old.
I have a Special Projects with US PREMIUM SS,I put brass guard and pom with stacked leather....Premo!!!!
I have and like the Ka-Bar 1249. Fills all chopping requirements when an axe or hatchet is too much weight and does fill some carving type demands just forward of the grip, as well. I carry a short fixed blade for the rest of my more delicate and hygienic cutting needs. Good review, thanks.
I like several of them but the Cold Steel Kukri is by far my favorite & yes the price does play a big part in that as will as they steel being easy to touch up.
im from colombia and i use a 8 dollar colombian machete in the jungle. and it never fails me and believe me if you are in the jungle you'll need something light and longer, 22 inches is perfect
These are great to have in a survival situation but I still would prefer the most versatile tool on the planet, my special forces shovel
I'd go with a BIA mk3 repro khukuri. 🙂
Shail Adrian Jagmag also a great choice
All farmers prefer manure movers
They are admirable....
Honestly and right to the point. Which is best against zombies? The guys at the hardware store don't seem to know. Seriously, I ask them.
I've owned a few, but the Condor Golok is in a league of it's own. Superior in every department for every use... and hands down the one I want in the zombie apocalypse ;)
Cold Steel is super underrated imo. I have a few of their offerings and hold their own against some of the top shelf knife/tool companies.
As always great reviews!!! Love the knowledge and super easy to follow and listen to.
These are all great choices. I generally prefer the 14" size machetes. I like the Imacasa 14" bolo. Cheap, but great. Needs grip wrapped, sharpened, sheath made. 1st third of blade from handle isn't sharp. This let's you grab the dull blade section. Held there, it balances between index and middle fingers for nimble use on small tasks. Has unique sharpened spoon tip shape useful for digging, scraping hollow shapes, concave back edge good for hanging vines. Weighs 19 oz with duct tape sheath.
As far as, price vs performance the Cold Steel Kukri is hard to beat.
Ordered the Cold Steel Kukri last Friday. Should be here soon for yard duty work!
Kabar kukri machete is a BEAST!
For myself I Absolutely love the Cold Steal kurki it's easy to sharpen chops like a dream with the heavy end and throwing it . it sticks in deep . I took a fill to the too end and made a sharp top aproximently 2.5 " to help with a backslash when using it for close quarters action in fighting. Also flipped around and using the blunt back side it will break bones easily . If my life depends on just 1 blade of defense and working in the bush it's Cold Steal every time .
I like the Gerber, I have the cold steel and it's great but that Gerber looks perfect for me
If you like the compact's,Brusletto makes a Epic one that Condor also just put out similar model for much less...I have not tried Condor's but it looks same spec as the Brusletto ....Wild Woman Bushcraft totes in Bavarian Alps....Condor Iron Path...I to also like a compact on a hike or in orchard,rather than a 3rd leg.lol..
Im a chef, got pleeeenty of knives but...no machete😥🤔 Alas, a bit tricky to get one in UK, at present. (Lockdown and all.)
Superb machetes! 🤗🤗🤗 love them all😍
My friend in Telford,got in trouble for toting fruit knife to cut her lunch apple...Sad......Word to God,never happen in USA...But scared,Gun Glorification in Culture will ruin it on everyone..Street CRAPPERS culture....Culture,not Color....Hope you guys get your rights returned..
I like the Bushman pal and the Condor warlock. I use the cold steel kukri almost everyday as a utility company lineman
I have the Tops .170, I find it a bit short and the sheath looks to busy. Still a great solid machete. I bought the Condor Makara for when I need a longer reach or help with social distancing
The Makara is actually my go-to for yard work too! -DCA
This was a good comparison presentation. I agree there is no outstanding one tool option (that I’ve found). That said, after using a machete and traditional kukri I prefer the kukri. It seems to work better for the conditions I find in my area. It processes wood up to 3” diameter well and cuts vines and grass easily. When I intend to spend extended time time in the wild I will carry the kukri paired with a smaller companion knife or tomahawk/hatchet.
I have the original ltc kukri by cold steel from the 90's i think. It has kraton handle and I think a carbon V steel blade at 1/8" thickness. It has been used and abused and I still love it. It chops better than a much bigger blade. Also I own 6 of the new Cold Steel machetes and would absolutely recommend them. Your description is spot on as far as I little rough around the edges but a great value plus they're not made in china but rather south africa. The 2 handed Thai machete is perhaps my favorite.
I am not a Mechete knowledgeable person......but for some reason I like that Lt. Wright. As you were speaking I imagineded myself forcing more patina on the blade at home.
The ontario and the cold steel are the winners. Amazing for so cheap
Why do I always laugh when someone says "dangler"
Hard to beat a Woodsman Pal. especially the older models. Haven't seen anything in video that the WPal couldn't do just as efficiently. Have enjoyed mine since 1986. Although they are very proud of it as new ones cost +$150.00 and don't have the hand guard. I also have a Condor Commando machete (which doesn't get very high marks from a lot of people) however it's my go to machete when cutting anyting of thickness over 4"-6" in diameter. Rock solid blade.stays super sharp so doesn't vibrate when cutting.
Great videos, many thanks.
Would you mind doing a short one to cover the different terminology used that sounds so alien to novices like me?
... that'd truly be appreciated, thank you.
2 words I've never heard in a blade review... Affair and Proposition lol! Great review as always 🍻
Saw back machete is the one tool I will always have on me.
The Kershaw Camp knives especially the 10" which I own have been great
Good call. Should definitely be in the list.
Loved mine. Lost it...
@@fuhq5121 Noooooooo!
Ive had a camp 10 scense 2016. Very good chopper. Got a small edge deflection from hitting hard wood and it doesent stay sharp for long when doing heavy chopping which makes me think that the steel could be better but not bad. It was a perfect choice for my first large knife.
Agreed, I've beat the ever living hell out of my camp 10 and it still has yet to fail on me
SOOOOO HELPFUL thank you so much for your video it helped me so much now I'm getting the cold steel kukri machete
Crocodilian from Condor!!! Awesome machete.
Good review!
I have a Tops Machete .230 and like it quite a bit.
But as with most Tops knives, it needed a 90-degree spine, my Worksharp did the trick.
IMO, ALL "survival" knives must have a 90-degree spine!!
Fox knives does make good knives as well!
I did think I wanted the Darian for awhile now. But now I want the L.T. Wright Overland badly lol! I'm in lust...yea I know probably not supposed to list after blades tools, but I love cutlery! I'm obsessed! 😻😸😼
It's ok, we won't judge you for lusting after one. You are among friends here! -DCA
I can’t even buy your stuff but still watch your advertisement. That’s love for blades. 🥰
I've got the 18" Ontario Military issue from the sixties...really like it but I thought about getting a pro to shorten it a bit and install a new handle that fits my hand a little better.
Of course you finish with the L. T. Wright! Possibly the most balanced in features and construction.
And price
David, knowing the thickness of the blade I would think would be critical, I am looking for a thicker(stiffer) blade
Another great machete/ big knife is the kershaw camp 10, I've owned one for quite some time and it hasn't let me down yet!
I gotta cold steel jungle machete and i think it is a good combination of a few from this list
i like a bk9 for hiking , its a little big but reassuring in its utility
I have the Ontario military machete , here in western Canada I only use it for hacking back the weeds . Was a fun purchase from a military surplus store .
Bark River Golok with upswept point is mine (though one with the spear point, not too dissimilar to the overland machete, would probably be the smarter choice).
i think in general, well made and smartly designed Goloks and Parangs (i.e. not too big so it's well balanced and can be used for finer tasks without fear of injury, but not too small so it can chop effectively) are by far the best "1 tool option". on a budget, i think i'd go with a Condor Mini Duku or a Varustelka Skrama (i think the former is a slightly better design, while the latter has superior steel)
well until today i was a hardcore cold steel man but now i see that condor is my new choice.
Tramontina best machete period.
Can you review a tramontina machete or any other m machetes with more flexible blades?
That Cold Steel machete looks like it was sharpened by Hellen Keller.
Is that a compliment or no, because I don’t get it
@@someimmature12yearold81 Manuel, Hellen Keller was an amazing woman, but she was blind. That CS machete looked as though no one QCed on its path through production.
I use the condor golok here in tropical north of Australia, very good in the heavy jungle here 👍
Considering how much more steel (1075/85) ect you get, the prices seem cheaper that the Knifes the same companies make.
I have two Condor machetes: The Golok (featured here), and the Parang. Both are the 1095 1/4" steel, both have the leather sheath and black blade coating for protection. The fit and finish on these are good.
I did grumble a bit about the edge grind on both of them. On the Parang, I found a 30 degree grind at the heel of the blade, and about a 17 degree grind near the tip (backward in my thinking). On both blades, I had to spend about an hour's worth of work on my Work Sharp Ken Onion (with tool attachment) to re-profile the edge to remove the inconsistent grind angles along the length of each blade. I finally stopped at one point on the Parang, simply because of the amount of material which would need removed to put that 17 degree to a 20 degree. Both blades (however) took an edge very well, and I was able to bring each of them to shaving sharp. I have not had an opportunity to test the edge retention after bringing them to that level of sharpness.
I agree, you'll need to make friends with the notion that you're not buying a really sharp blade from the factory, but with some work, they can be brought to your liking.
I treat all of my leather with "Bick 4" conditioner to feed the leather... and found (by accident) that the wood on both of these machetes drank in the conditioner and gave me a very nice (richer color) finish to look at, and to feel in the hand. This did not diminish the grip of the tool in hand either... may have even improved it a bit.
Great tools for brush control. Love them both.
RatdogDRB A short correction: Bothe the Golok and the Parang are made of 1075, not 1095. When these two blades came out (they're really early designs still selling well, that should say something about their value) Conor was ONLY offering 1075 in their big blades, but 440C in one or two of their smaller knives. Today they're offering quite a few knives in 1095 (I think they call it 1095HC) but the Golok and Parang are both still 1075. I cut the tip off of my Golok so it now has a straight clip point, and like you I brought down the almost obtuse angle of the bevel. The Parang was a tiny bit better than the Golok, but both were MUCH thicker edges than any axe I've ever owned. They're just WAY too blunt for my taste, but no complaint about the quality. For the price, they can't be beat.
That socket handled Joe Flowers machete (crocodilian) resembles the Ifugao traditional blade called pehlet.
Get the Terava Skrama... you wont be disappointed.
I prefer the Condor Eco Parang, esp for the shape of the grip which locks your hand in both front and back. I think it’s discontinued now, but has been replaced with a similar model.
Dang I think I want one of all of these! Nice looking stuff.....
I recommend the Cold steel Barong
The condor crock with the rolled handle looks like you could shape large tree branch to slide into the handle for longer reach ,or for hunting Hogs or anything you might want to take a swing at .however the Bush mondo would definitely be my pick of the lot and love that sheath .
Another great video, always a big fan of your content. Good work dude 👍
Great video. What is the difference between the Tops 170 and the Tops Yacare? Thank you
Condor makes some beautiful blades
I use my Machete when I am mowing the lawn so I can trim back those nasty wild berry bushes, poison oak, or low hanging branches on trees in the yard. Works well when you have forest surrounding your lawn. Also like to use it when I hike the property so I can keep my deer trails etc. open so I can walk through those areas.
Did that first Condor Machete have a crack in the blade right near the main belly part of the blade? As the blade was being filmed I noticed it but I thought that it could just be a small hair on the edge of the blade. The hair theory is not too far out there since the blades always ship with a generous amount of oil to keep the blade from rusting during shipping and the oil frequently gets sticky being able to hold onto a hair.
A good look at the different styles of machetes , thanks Dave .
I have a 10'' Ozark Trail Machete, yet I don't know what steel it uses, though it appears to be stainless steel. I also got an 18'' high carbon steel machete by Landscaper's Select and it's very promising.
My favorite is unfortunately not made anymore. The Ontario Blackie Collins bowie with D handle. I am looking to replace the rivets as they keep coming loose tho..
My preference is a Kershaw Outcast, the best is a Ben Orford Parang, spot on demo....ATB!
Nicely done... I'm still waiting for a good golok design. Something with good blade width, balance and a good handle designed for retention/non slip. 🙏
Aussie Vietnam era Golok
Here ini indonesia, a lot of golok variation in weight and size you can pick based on your need.
I love a Kukri or a parang most.
I totally agree about rusty machetes. It’s a tool, FFS. Shovels get rusty too.
My Parang! Hands down. Add a Victorinox Farmer to the sheath plus a small stone and a ferro rod and you're all but bulletproof . imho .
Macete bong handle How long is the blade, how many inches is the blade wide?
I'm not sure they make it anymore but I love my Marples Fire Axe, it is a hybrid tool but very useful.
I think I liked that Fox Parang the best.
My favorite Machete would be my Power Eagle 12 from TOPS. Seems I use it more often than any other knife besides my edc.
My favorite One Tool Option Machete would be my TOPS Armageddon (my favorite knife overall from any maker). It would have fit right in with those knives on your table there.
Being one that spends a lot of time in the jungle, two things matter most to me. (1.) how quickly I can get my blade ready. Like I said, with spending much time in the jungle you run into a whole mess of situations. Two being eople and predatory animals, if I’m in a rough spot I want to be able to quip myself as quick as possible. Having to unbuckle kinda puts a downer on the situation. (2.) durability, when it comes to cutting bone and wood I want something that can hold up. The question is what exactly does that job and more?
I am an LT Wright fan, however, I think I would go with the Condor Golok in this situation.
INSTANT SUB-only knife place I can TRUST not to INSULT with some second or irregular..Have a Condor coming in the mail now from you guys....SALUTE!!!!