Lost in the wild? Don’t panic! A trusty machete can be your lifeline in a survival situation. But what is the best machete for survival in 2024? We’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re an experienced outdoorsman or a weekend camper, being prepared for the unexpected is essential. A machete is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks in a survival scenario, from building shelter and chopping firewood to clearing paths and defending yourself.
But with so many different machetes on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate the different features and factors to consider to find the perfect machete for your survival needs.
Types of Machetes
There are two main machete tangs: full tang and patch tang. A full tang machete has a blade that runs the entire handle length, providing the most stability and strength. A patch tang machete has a blade that extends only partway into the handle, making it lighter but less sturdy.
Full Tang Machete
A full tang machete has a blade that extends the entire length of the handle, typically with scales or grips attached to the tang with rivets or bolts. This design offers several advantages:
Superior Strength: Since the blade is one continuous piece of metal, a full-tang machete is much stronger and less likely to break than a patch-tang machete, especially when dealing with heavy chopping or prying tasks.
- Improved Balance: The full tang construction also helps improve the machete’s balance, making it easier to swing and control.
More Durable: Because of its strength, a full-tang machete is generally more durable and can withstand more abuse than a patch-tang machete.
Patch Tang Machete
A patch tang machete, on the other hand, has a blade that only extends partway into the handle. The tang is then encased by handle scales, typically held in place with epoxy or other adhesives. Patch tang machetes are generally:
Less Expensive: Because they are simpler to manufacture, patch tang machetes are typically less expensive than full tang machetes.
Lighter: The reduced amount of metal in the handle can make a patch-tang machete lighter than a full-tang machete.
Less Durable: While lighter and cheaper, patch-tang machetes may not be as strong as full-tang machetes and can be more prone to breaking, especially if used for heavy chopping or prying.
The best machete type for you will depend on your intended use. A full tang machete is the better option if you need a machete for tough jobs like chopping down trees or prying roots. A patch tang machete may suffice if you are looking for a lighter, more affordable machete for light chopping or clearing brush.
Machete Styles
Here are some of the most common machete styles:
Kukri: The kukri is a Nepalese machete with a distinctive curved blade that is excellent for chopping and hacking.
Glok: The golok is a machete from Southeast Asia with a heavy, broad blade that is ideal for chopping thick vegetation.
Latin: The Latin machete is a versatile machete with a straight blade that is good for chopping, slashing, and clearing brush.
Kukri Style Machete
Kukri-style machetes have gained fame thanks to their distinctive inwardly curved blades and heavy front-weighting. Originating from Nepal, these machetes are highly efficient in chopping tasks. The curved design allows deeper cuts with less effort while ensuring excellent control during swings.
Additionally, the heavy front-weighting of a kukri provides increased chopping power, making it an ideal tool for cutting through tough materials like thick branches or even bone if necessary. However, due to their unique shape, kukri-style machetes may not be as effective in precision slicing or finer tasks that require more control.
Latin Style Machete
Latin-style machetes are among the most popular and versatile options. Two common types are the bolo and the panga. The bolo machete features a thick, slightly curved blade with a weight-forward design.
This shape allows for powerful chopping and clearing of dense vegetation. The panga machete, on the other hand, has a longer and thinner blade with a slight curve towards the tip.
This design provides better slicing capabilities, making it ideal for cutting through brush or preparing firewood. Both types excel in general-purpose survival tasks due to their sturdy construction and balanced weight distribution.
Choosing the Best Machete
There are several important factors to consider when choosing a survival machete:
Blade Length and Weight: A machete with a blade length of 18-24 inches is a good compromise between chopping power and maneuverability. The weight of the machete should also be considered. A heavier machete will be more powerful, but a lighter machete will be easier to carry.
Blade Material: Machetes are typically made from carbon or stainless steel. Carbon steel blades are sharper and easier to maintain, but they are also more prone to rust. Stainless steel blades are more rust-resistant but can be more difficult to sharpen.
Handle Material: Your machete’s handle should be comfortable to grip and made from durable materials such as wood, rubber, or synthetic materials.
Sheath: A good-quality sheath is essential for safely storing and transporting your machete. The sheath should be made from a durable material and fit the machete snugly.
Top Contenders for Best Survival Machete
Here are a few highly-rated machetes to consider for your survival kit based on the factors mentioned above:
Ka-Bar Kukri Machete: This kukri machete is a good all-purpose option from a reputable brand. It features a 1085 carbon steel blade that is both durable and sharp and a comfortable Kraton G handle.
Condor Parang Machete: This parang machete is a great choice for those prioritizing chopping power. Its thick, heavy blade is made for tough jobs.
Ontario Machete: Ontario machetes are known for their durability and affordability. The Ontario Machete is a full-tang machete with a 1095 carbon steel blade that is perfect for various survival tasks.
Conclusion
Choosing the right machete for survival is an important decision. Considering the factors mentioned above, you can find a machete that will meet your needs and help you stay safe and prepared in the wilderness. Remember, there is no single “best” machete for survival, as the best machete for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
We hope this guide has been helpful. With a little planning and preparation, you can ensure you have the right tools to survive anything the wilderness throws your way.
