One of the things that you will find in a backyard or garden is a reliable all-purpose knife or machete. Garden machete is a highly versatile tool used for cutting tree trunks, cleaning brushes, chopping compost, carving, incising woods. It is a lot more useful than you can ever think of.
In this post, we reveal the ten best garden machete for 2019, so you will have an idea which one will best serve your needs.
![GERBER Gator Machete - Black w/ Nylon Sheath [31-000758]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31fk4dD7ZiL._SL160_.jpg)
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Table of Contents
- 1.Gerber Gator Machete
- 2. Cold Steel 97MKM Magnum Kukri
- 3. Ontario Knife Co Military Machete
- 4. Fiskars Machete Axe (Top Pick)
- 5. SOG SOGfari 18″ Machete MC02-N
- 6. Condor Tool & Knife, Golok Machete
- 7. Ontario Knife Company 6144 18″ Military Machete
- 8. Condor Tool & Knife, Parang Machete
- 9. SOG SOGfari 10″ Machete MC04-N
- 10. Cold Steel 97KMIGS Royal Kukri Machete
- What to Look For Before You Purchase
- Our Top Pick
- Finding A Suitable Machete For You
1.Gerber Gator Machete
The high-quality Gerber Gator machete has a 15-inch fine-edge blade on one side and an 18-inch serrated saw blade on the other side. The material is made of high-carbon stainless steel. If you find yourself using a machete for chopping and sawing this could be a great choice.
The rubber grip is ergonomically designed so you can control it securely and confidently no matter where you use it for hunting or recreational use.
Features
- High Carbon Steel
- Nylon Sheath
- Rubberized handle
Specification:
- Blade Material: High carbon stainless steel
- Blade Length: 18″
- Overall Length: 25.7″
- Sheath Material: Nylon
- Handle Material: Gator Grip overmold
- Weight: 18 oz.
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. Cold Steel 97MKM Magnum Kukri
One customer describes the Magnum Kukri as a sturdy camping tool. With its 17-inch blade on an angle, it is guaranteed to handle difficult tasks.
The hande grip is made of polypropylene that is comfortable guaranteed that it won’t chip, crack, or break easily. It features the heavier weight in the forward tip so that you will only need less force applied to cut through.
Features
- Handle: 5″ Long Polypropylene
- Overall Length: 22″
- Steel: 1055 Carbon Steel with Black Baked on Anti Rust Matte Finish
- Sheath: Cor-Ex Sheath
- Lightweight
Specification:
- Blade length: 17 inches
- Blade thickness: 2.75mm
- Handle: Polypropylene
- Overall length: 22 inches
- Weight: 18.2 ounces
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. Ontario Knife Co Military Machete
The Ontario Knife Company produces professional military machetes under US Government specifications for over 60 years. Ontario Knife Co MIlitary Machete is known for its durability and robustness that even the OKC troops have this type of machete. One customer also said that he had owned two of Ontario Knife machetes in 40 years, that’s outstanding!
It’s great for cutting through bushes, shrubs, and tree branches. You can even use the machete to slice a sheet of paper with one single and gentle stroke.
Features
- Carbon Steel
- Military-grade machete
Specification:
- Blade length: 18 inches
- Handle: Molded Plastic and Riveted handle
- Overall length: 24 inches
- Weight: 15.8 ounces
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. Fiskars Machete Axe (Top Pick)
The Fiskars machete axe features a high carbon steel blade that is designed to tame fast-growing vegetation and angled that’s certain to cut and clear through brush or limbs. It has a hardened steel blade that is perfect for precision work.
The Fiskars Machete Axe has a sharpened blade curve for any pull cuts. The grip is made of a textured rubber that reduces slippage and ensures comfort.
Features
- Hardened steel blade
- Blade curve for pull-cutting
- Rust-resistant with low friction
- Expanded cutting area
- Finger guard for added protection
Specification:
- Overall Length: 29″
- Blade Length: 18″
- Weight: 1.8 lb
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. SOG SOGfari 18″ Machete MC02-N
The SOGfari machete has an 18-inch steel straight edge blade and serrated saw blade. Use this machete for survival, exploration, and recreational activity. It comes with a black nylon sheath with a hook and belt loop to keep the machete adequately protected.
The SOGfari machete features its modern and minimalist design and style. The handle grip is made of Kraton polymer that is known for qualities like resistance to UV and high temperature. The rubber textured grip is what makes it fits nicely and prevents slipping off your hand.
Features
- Kraton rubber handle
- Limited lifetime warranty
- 18-inch high carbon steel blade with saw back
Specification:
- Blade length: 18 x 0.8 inches
- Overall length: 29.95 inches
- Weight: 15.7 ounces
- Steel: 3CR13 stainless
- Edge: Straight and saw back
- HRC: 52-53
- Finish: Black powder coated
- Handle: Kraton
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
6. Condor Tool & Knife, Golok Machete
The Golok Machete is a high-quality full tang designed machete made of 1075 high carbon steel coated with a black epoxy powder finish. The black leather sheath suits the thick and solid blade and its walnut handle. One of its best aspects is it’s lightweight as it weighs only 7 ounces. It can chop an 11-inch diameter pine into logs.
One customer says, “Best machete I’ve ever owned,” which could be the best one for you too.
Features
- 1075 High Carbon Steel
- Lightweight
- 100% leather sheath included
Specification:
- Blade Length: 14 inches
- Overall Length: 19 inches
- Handle: Walnut
- Finish: Black powder epoxy finish
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
7. Ontario Knife Company 6144 18″ Military Machete
The military machete by Ontario Knife Company is a high-quality full tang made of carbon steel blade machete. It is a military issued machete as it is versatile and very functional no matter where you use it. The weight makes it much more comfortable to apply minimal effort to cut through thicker branches and grass.
One customer said that he had used OKC military machete to cut down trees with 8 inches in diameter and could even be a replacement for a hatchet. The color of the blade, as well as the handle grip, makes it sophisticated and exudes authority.
Features
- Blade material 1095
- Flat bevel edge
- Full tang
Specification:
- Blade Overall Length: 24 inch
- Blade Length: 18 inch
- Blade Thickness: 0.12 inches
- Weight: 1 Ib.
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
8. Condor Tool & Knife, Parang Machete
Similar to the Condor Golok machete, the Condor Parang machete is made of 1075 high carbon steel blade coated with black epoxy powder coating. It is also a full tang, which means increased power and leverage.
The blade thickness can efficiently cut through 4-5 inches of hardwood limbs or trunks. If you’re tired of grip that you can’t even twist your hand, this machete is for you.
Features
- 100% Other Fibers
- Made in the USA or Imported
- The finest quality cutlery and tools
- 108 sculpted vents
Specification:
- Handle: Hardwood
- Blade Material: 1075 HIGH CARBON STEEL
- Blade Finish: Epoxy Black Powder Coating
- Sheath: Leather black
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
9. SOG SOGfari 10″ Machete MC04-N
SOGfari Machete is a black tactical machete that features a tanto blade and sharper tip that’s great for hunting. The blade measures up to 16 inches in total. There is also a working saw on the other side that can cut deep with its sharp teeth.
Features
- Slip-proof rubber handle
- 2 in 1 Blade and saw machete
- Ergonomic handle for extended use
Specification:
- Blade Length: 10″
- Weight: 13.50 oz.
- Edge Type: Straight
- Handle Type: Kraton
- Finish: Hardcase Black
- Sheath Material: Ballistic Nylon
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
10. Cold Steel 97KMIGS Royal Kukri Machete
A multi-functional superior bush knife, the Cold Steel Royal Kukri Machete is made of 1055 carbon steel with a black matte finish. The blade is in a different angle to ensure its piercing and thrusting functionality. The corner is excellent for the thicker bush because the inward curve of the blade can get through it.
One customer described that chopping with the Kukri machete is impressive as it takes bigger chunks than his ax and can be sharpened in just 20 minutes.
Features
- Multi-functional bush knife
- Handle with an integral guard to keep your hands safe
- New design angle
- Abrasion-resistant
Specification:
- Blade Thickness: 2.8 mm
- Handle: 5 1/4″ Long Polypropylene
- Overall Length: 20 3/4″
- Weight: 1.54 Ibs.
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What to Look For Before You Purchase
Before you purchase your garden machete, you should first know that different types will provide different functionality. Machetes also come in different shapes, types of blade and grip handle. All of which should be factored in your decision.
Type of Garden Machete
We’ve listed down the types of machetes for you to know which one suits your style.
Billhook
Billhook machete is an ancient and traditional cutting tool typically used in chopping or cutting tree shrubs, grapevine, and branches. The billhook is also used in agriculture and forestry.
Bolo
The tip of the Bolo machete is slightly larger than the grip handle that makes it unique. Because of its weight, it is capable of performing heavy chopping and cutting.
Bush
Bush machete is also known as Latin-style machete. It’s an all-purpose machete with a straight back blade.
Cane
Cane machete is also known as Sugar Cane machete. The cane machete has a broad blade designed to cut thick stalks of sugarcane, bamboo and other plants with thick stems. Some cane machete has a thin edge at the tip, which allows it to pull the chopped stalks from standing plants.
Colima
The blades of the Colima machete are shaped like a paddle. Both sides are sharpened straight out from the factory. The spine of the blade has a bulge to ensure effective cutting in both fore and backhand strokes.
Hawksbill
Hawksbill machete has a curved or hooked shape blade with a sharpened tip that can pierce through any hard material, whereas the inner curved can be used to chop or cut branches, grass, or plants.
Panga
This style of the machete is commonly used in the Carribean, especially in the spring growing season. It has a heavy-duty blade that is great for clearing trails and cutting thick brush, limbs, or weeds.
Parang
Parang machete is originally from Indonesia and Malaysia. It has a thick blade with a curved spine and edge. One of the distinct qualities of this machete is the weight that is evenly distributed.
It is recommended for cutting wooden garden plants.
Heavy
The heavy machete provides optimum cutting and chopping power with its top of the blade that is heavier than the handle side.
Material and Length of Blade
- Stainless steel – Stainless steel machetes are lightweight and durable. This type of blade material is also resistant to corrosion.
- Carbon steel – Carbon steel is one of the most recommended and durable machetes. Carbon steel requires regular care and maintenance to avoid rusting and corrosion. The blade should always be wiped dry and sharpened by hand.
- High carbon stainless steel – Machetes made of carbon and stainless steel have the best features of both materials. The blade edge is usually made with carbon steel, while the rest of the blade is made with stainless steel.
Tang
Tang is one of the essential characteristics of machete or any fixed blade knives. The tang refers to the extension of the blade up to the handles.
When considering a garden machete, it is recommended that you purchase a machete with a full tang. It means that the tang extends the entire length and width of the handle. There are two types and four sub-types of tang, the full and partial tang.
Weight
The average weight of machete is between 2 to 2.5 pounds.
Material of the Handle
The blade is the most crucial part of the machete; however, the handle should also be considered too. If you can’t handle the machete well, you won’t be able to use the machete properly.
There are five types of material for a handle.
- Wood – the most comfortable handle for a machete as it is light but durable. The only downside of this is when there’s moisture; the wood handle will break over time.
- Polymer – machetes with polymer handles are the most affordable. This material tends to be slippery, so if your hands are sweaty, you might have a hard time controlling the machete. The polymer is also susceptible to discoloration.
- Rubber – rubber handle is soft and offers an excellent grip. It absorbs vibration when you use the machete. The disadvantage is it breaks easily if you handle it carelessly.
- Stainless Steel – machete handle made of stainless steel is expensive and durable. But they are slippery, making it difficult to use.
- Micarta – this type of material is the best one and most expensive. Micarta is made of mixed materials such as epoxy, silicone, melamine resin, fiberglass, cork, cotton cloth, paper, carbon fiber, and other substrates that make it hard and dense. It offers excellent grip, comfort, and durability.
Machete Finish
The finish of the machete blade offers different purposes. A black powder coat finishes aids in the prevention of corrosion and rust. Look for a finish that has anti-corrosion and rust qualities.
Maintenance
Once you own a garden machete, it’s essential to undertake regular care and maintenance. Set aside time to perform the following to ensure that your garden machete is at their tip-top shape.
- Keep the blade sharp
- Put oil in the blade
- Remove rust
- Keep it dry
Laws and Regulations
Machetes are classified as an agricultural tool by the United States law, while knives and swords are classified as weapons. So there is a little known regulation against owning a machete. To avoid potential problems, consider inquiring first if you’re thinking of shipping a machete or traveling with one.
Our Top Pick
Fiskars has been a household name for tools and its no surprise that it comes as the clear winner for machetes. The best way to explain it? It’s like a half machete and half hatchet. I had no problems clearing our bushes and even when I had accidentally hit rocks, the machete had held its edge without any deformation.
If you’re looking for a machete that can act as a hatchet I would recommend the Fiskars Machete Axe. And the handle was not overlooked. The grip is one of the best I have used even after hours of sweaty use and I’ve never experienced blisters after switching to Fiskars. It’s the one of the best investments you must have in your home.
Finding A Suitable Machete For You
For anyone who is buying a garden machete for the first time, it’s necessary to gather information and specifics to make sure that you will be able to use the machete for the right purpose. If you’ve gone through the information that we have prepared for you, we are confident that you will be able to find a suitable one for you.
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Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
