Last Updated on June 9, 2023 by Georgie Smith
Machetes are as old as the hills. They trace their origin to early human civilizations and inventions. Over the years, they have become one of the most conventional and domineering farm tools worldwide.
From being used in defense, as farming accessories during the Agrarian revolution to multipurpose utilities in the postmodern world, it is hard to imagine that there are still households without the best Machete for trail clearing, heaving brush and cutting trees?
See Also:
Many of the traditional uses of machetes have evolved into sophistication alongside a continued renovation of the tool’s design. It is no surprise that the farmer needs a knife more than anything else. This post will focus on machetes for clearing trails and bushes as well as the ones people use every day to cut trees.
Multiplicity of Functions
You would be surprised at how many farming activities you can do with this tool. It is especially the case for those who would want to buy one size fit all. You can use it to dig holes for planting, clear bushes to pave the way for farmland, self-defense, and cut trees.
Thus, ordering the best machete from giant online stores like Amazon should not be a decision one makes overnight. You have possibly landed on this post because you are looking for information that will lead to the best options available for sale. At the end of this post, you should thus be able to do the following:
- Buy the right machete for your homesteading practices.
- Differentiate different types of a cutlass: design and use.
- Recommend the best options to a neighbor, friend, or anyone who comes around to seek your advice.
- Choose from a range of price variations depending on your financial capability. Morninghomestead always strives to provide you, the buyer, with a credible, transparent, useful, relevant and independent review of the best.
How to choose the perfect Machete for Heavy Brush, Trail Clearing, and Cutting Trees?
You will not just walk into a farm store or retail shop and say, ‘I want that machete.’ Buyers should base such decisions on critical factors. They include:
The Blade Size, Length, and Make
There are some things to look into when it comes to reviewing blades. Length, size, and material happen to be the most crucial ones. First and foremost, blade lengths vary and have a strong bearing on the type of work you will be doing. Some are as long as 18 inches, but the typical blade length is somewhere in the range of 10 and 15 inches.
The make material is another important consideration. There are those which feature stainless steel while others are carbon fiber. The former is resistant to rust while the latter is durable. Size of blades varies, and so, the mission you would want to accomplish with one will help you determine the right choice.
Blade Style/Origin/Name
There is a reason why we decided to categorize this separately and not together with the above feature, and as you will find out shortly, blade style is inherent with the origin and purpose of a machete.
- Barong looks like a leaf by design and traces its roots to the 16th century and remains a top choice for clearing bushes, trails, and tall grass.
- Bolo is a design that echoes Filipino but is also famous across most Asian countries.
- Bush-style does not suggest more than its name. It is a multipurpose utility tool. It features a straight edge on the back-side and a curve to the front. It is the most common style known to many and ideal for clearing vegetation and cutting, thanks to even distribution of weight along the blade.
- Cane is another style and is popular with cane cutting and clearing corn bushes.
- Billhook features downward edge, and those who want to chop tree trunks, as well as clear crop vegetation, have always fallen in love with it.
- Bowie-styled blade traced its origin to America and was initially a survival tool. Not much has changed concerning its purpose.
- Colima features a double-edge, and that makes it a perfect fit for back and forth strokes during bush clearing.
- Kukri traces its origin to Nepal and features a midsection, a pointed tip, and a slender bottom. It is an all-purpose tool.
- Panga is a common phrase in Africa and is inherently the name of a machete across most parts of the continent. More or less like Bolo, it is an ideal tool for bringing down huge trees, chopping wood and cutting thick vegetation.
- Hawkbill features a curvy blade and ideal for cutting wood and sugarcane.
- Golok design traces its roots to Indonesia. It is short and a slightly heavy.
- Lastly, Parang is a style favorite in the Southeastern parts of Asia. It features a long multipurpose blade and has a narrow bottom near the handle.
Handle
Here, you must look into the grip, material, size, and comfort. Handle styles also vary significantly from one item to the other, not to mention contours. There is a Quillon handle (the most common and with efficient grip), D-ring feel/knuckle guard (cushions your finger while also providing a firm grip) and finally, cross-guard handle (similar to Quillon, except that the design features a cross-guard).
Regarding the handle material, wood and plastic are not only the most common but also pricey. Buying one with a lightweight handle is imperative. Then some handles feature rubber (instrumentally, the best regarding grip), stainless steel (attractive, albeit, heavy) and leather.
However, the best handle material is Micarta. It lasts longer, provides the best grip and great comfort but quite costly.
Purpose
Whether you are in need of a machete for self-defense, survival or general agricultural tasks such as brush clearing, the intent is an all-important factor you should not ignore. It is the reason why one farmer buys the right item, and another ends up with what doesn’t fit the bill as the best tool for cutting trees.
Top 5 Best Machetes for Sale:
Here is a list of the best and which Morninghomestead sanctions with utmost confidence:
| Picture | Product Name | Featrres |
|---|---|---|
 |
Ontario 18-Inch Military Grade Machete | – It features a carbon steel blade, thus the best quality – Popular in the military service |
 |
24-Inch Clearing Machete | – Easy to use when clearing dense bushes, thanks to a blade curve – A one-hand grip tool – Features high-quality and durable steel |
 |
Fiskars Brush Axe | – The blade is resistant to rusting and features a smooth coating for smooth glide through wood – Blade measures 10 inches long – It comes with a warranty for life |
 |
Condor Tool Knife, Golok Machete | – The handle features walnut material – It comes with a sheath that is a 100 percent leather – Blade measures 14 inches long |
 |
Condor Tool & Knife, Parang Machete | – Hardwood for the handle – Black Epoxy powder on the edge – Sturdy, black leather sheath accompanies it |
Ontario 18-Inch Military Grade Machete
There are very many convincing reasons why this item from Ontario Knife Company makes it to our review, and they include the following:
- It features a carbon steel blade, thus the best quality
- Popular in the military service
- Ontario Knife Co has been at the forefront in manufacturing blades in the United States for over 70 years.
- 24-Inch Clearing Machete
Buy On Amazon
Fiskars 24’ Clearing Machete
The Fiskars 24” Clearing Machete and another top choice is this one that measures 24 inches in length with a blade measuring 15 inches. More features that will make you fall in love with this product include:
- Easy to use when clearing dense bushes, thanks to a blade curve.
- A one-hand grip tool
- Features high quality and durable steel that doesn’t become blunt quickly when in use
Buy On Amazon
Fiskars Brush Axe
Fiskars is a leading manufacturer and supplier of some of the best machetes. With that, the Fiskars Brush Axe tool is a perfect choice for many because of the following reasons:
- Suitable for bush, trail clearing, and felling trees as well as cutting logs
- It has a blade that features compact steel, and with a high cutting precision you do not have to use much energy
- The edge is resistant to rusting and also features a smooth coating for smooth glide through wood
- The blade measures 10 inches long
- It comes with a warranty for life
Buy On Amazon
Condor Tool Knife, Golok Machete, 14-inch Blade, Walnut Handle with Sheath
If you must make the right choice, then the Condor Tool Knife item is good for the money because of the following reasons:
- The handle features walnut material
- It comes with a sheath that is a 100 percent leather
- The blade measures 14 inches long
- Edge is high-quality carbon steel to withstand heavy-duty tasks. An epoxy powder coating tops it up
- Handle features hardwood
- The total length is 19 inches
Buy On Amazon
Condor Tool & Knife, Parang Machete, 17.5-Inch Blade, Hardwood Handle with Sheath
Here is another excellent option for Condor Tool and Knife. It has outstanding features and a must-buy for any farmer looking for the best. Take note of the following features:
- A top quality Parang Machete
- Features 108 sculpture vents
- Hardwood for the handle
- Black Epoxy powder on the blade
- Sturdy, black leather sheath accompanies it
Buy On Amazon
Best Machete Sharpener
Having taken you through some of the best options to consider when in need of a brush, trail clearing, and cutting tools, many would also want to order a sharpener as too. Well, recommendations would be flying from all around, especially suggestions by friends, but it takes an insightful and independent review to get your hands on the best.
Below, you will find our top Sharpener reviews for every day.
| Picture | Product Name | Features |
|---|---|---|
 |
Smith‘s PP1 Pocket Pal Multifunction Sharpener | – Carbide blades, and ceramic stones for a coarse pull through the sharpening slot – A tapered round rod with diamond coating – It has a Lanyard hole for holding the blade |
 |
Smith‘s 50582 Axe and Machete Sharpener | – It has an extensive safety guard – You can replace its premium and abrasive carbide blades – A quick way of sharpening hatchets, ax, and any other tools |
 |
Lansky Puck-Dual Grit Multi-Purpose Sharpener-Blade & Tool Sharpener | – It is portable and easy to use – Suitable for any blade type |
Smith’s PP1 Pocket Pal Multifunction Sharpener
We searched around and came up with PP1 Pocket Pal Sharpener on top of the list. It is because it has the following features:
- Carbide blades, and ceramic stones for a coarse pull through the sharpening slot. The result is a razor-sharp blade edge
- Sharpens standard and serrated margins, thanks to the tapered round rod with diamond coating
- The sharpening stones and carbide are replaceable
- It has a Lanyard hole for holding the blade
- Sharpening blades are preset at ideal angles for best results
Buy On Amazon
Smith’s 50582 Axe and Machete Sharpener
Smith’s accessories are indispensable and here are some of the reasons why the 50582 Axe and Machete sharpener comes through as a top choice in this review:
- It has an extensive safety guard
- You can replace its premium and abrasive carbide blades
- A quick way of sharpening hatchets, ax, and any other tools. You do it with a few pulls
- Lasts long
Buy On Amazon
Lansky Puck-Dual Grit Multi-Purpose Sharpener-Blade & Tool Sharpener
The best sharpener for a hatchet can be hard to come by, and that is why Morninghomestead recommends the best among which is this one from Lansky Puck. But should you buy it?
- It is portable, and that means you don’t worry about going back home to sharpen your tool. Carry it to the workstation
- Easy to use
- Suitable for any blade type, including axes
Buy On Amazon
Parang vs. Machete:
| Machete | Parang |
|---|---|
| The shape varies depending on the design, but the straight blade is popular | Features a curved blade near the edge and spine |
| For cutting trees and chopping logs | Perfect for chopping |
| Multi-purpose | Ideal for heavy-duty tasks |
| A general name for different types | Traces originate in South East Asia |
Katana vs. Machete Zombie
| Katana | Machete Zombie |
|---|---|
| Long blade | Short blade |
| You need professional training to use a katana with both hands | Easy to use even without training |
| Suitable for slicing, piercing, and cutting | For hacking and chopping |
How to Use a Machete to Clear Brush
It is essential to ask questions regarding how to use this tool because chances are, one might hurt himself or herself without the right utility information at their fingertips. Everyone would, however, want to imagine they know how to use a machete until things go wrong. The following tips should help you get along without problems:
Because this is a hand-held tool, you will need to wear gloves. But first, make sure the edge is sharp enough to perform trail clearing or tree cutting tasks. It is also crucial to dress in the right attire for the job
- Secure a work area far from anyone lest you cause accidents
- Establish a secure grip with the machete handle
- For cutting duties, you strike the wood at a right angle. It may, however, change to a different perspective when it comes to bush clearing whereby hand swings will be sideways (back and forth) like a pendulum.
- Make sure to keep the free hand out of the swings way while making sure the cutting or clearing takes place in front
Care and Maintenance for the Machete
Owning a tool like a machete comes with an equal share of responsibility. You don’t want to lose your gadget a few days into its use because of carelessness. You may want to ask; how then do I take care of my tool? What about maintenance tips to keep it functionally optimal?
Well, here are some care and maintenance tips:
- Keep your hatchet away from children’s reach. Better be safe than sorry
- Rust does not only affect the lifespan of a machete but also its efficiency. Keep it away from damp areas. If possible, inside a leather sheath.
- Your safety matters. Read safety labels so that you are always in the know of what to do.
- It is not necessary to razor-sharpen. Moderation is the key.
- For knives with wooden handles, keep them away from heat. Excess dryness is something to worry about but not when you apply lemon or furniture oil.
- Wipe clean the blade using steel wool or a paint remover that contains citrus then apply oil to protect it from rusting.
FAQs:
Q: How safe is a machete?
A: While manufacturers have taken into account the safety concerns of users when dispatching items like machetes for sale, everything else stops with you. If you handle your gadget carelessly, there is a risk of getting in harm’s way. Read product safety labels and remember to keep it away from the reach of children. Wear gloves when handling this tool. [learn more here]
Q: How do I maintain the sharpness of the cutting edge?
A: This is a question that rests on safety measures. The truth is; a blunt machete will be a disappointment when it comes to clearing bushes and trails or when performing any other task. Do the following to maintain a sharp edge:
- Protect it from rust-prone conditions. For example, wipe dry before storing
- Inspect your hatchet regularly to make sure it does not have cracks
Q: Where can I find a machete sharpener?
A: Sharpeners serve their purpose well, but a wrong choice can be costly. You can find the best item from online stores like Amazon.
Q: Is lightweight or heavyweight better?
A: Weight is an essential factor to consider when buying a machete or else one may end up with what they do not want. First of all, the kind of tasks you want to perform should play along when making a selection. Are they heavy-duty or light tasks?
While most people prefer heavy machete blades because they are efficient in transmitting energy to the cutting edge, what if it becomes a cause for sprains, strains, and bruises? On the other hand, light blades would be ideal if you want to do light-duty tasks such as clearing or trimming bushes.
Q: Do all machetes have a double edge?
A: It depends on the purpose. Some have double-edges, but it is somewhat uncommon unless you are in need of something you can swing either way as it cuts through bush vegetation. Ostensibly, most machetes have one edge.
Q: How much will I pay?
A: Morninghomestead factors in pricing concerns and hence cater to the needs of different buyers. Prices vary although, during high-sale or peak seasons, you may walk away with incredible discounts on an item. Everyone should be able to locate a product that meets his or her financial potential from our top reviews.
Conclusion
One of the biggest challenges buyers face when it comes to buying hatchets is making the right decision. There are so many varieties on the market that it is hard to rule out the possibility of ending up with the correct item.
For someone who has fallen victim to making wrong decisions, he or would also understand that lack of reliable buying guides is another reason why that happens.
However, having read this comprehensive review by Morninghomestead, we trust that our readers now have the requisite information and are henceforth, Pro shoppers for the ideal farm tools and equipment.
Go to Amazon today and buy the best machete for trail clearing, dense brush and cutting trees. That notwithstanding, it is time to help others become expert shoppers just like you by sharing this fantastic review on social media. Do not forget to engage with us in the comment section below.
