Suggestions for Machete under 24"

[Iron mike]

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I bought a marbles a few years back at a yard sale it works very well for clearing brush and other yard work I just checked and they have a web site and are still in operation.

[mttpane9636]

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I've got a Kershaw outkast, after rebevelling the edge, its a chopping monster.

[oldfart]

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Time to think outside the box a bit...
I own a Cold Steel 24 in. machete, and while it's a fine tool, I have a Cold Steel Kukri with about an 18 in. or so blade on it that actual works better than the longer machete. I use it all the time at home and at the camp.
There are two different models from Cold Steel, I believe. I have the ones with the thinner blades; maybe not so good prying manhole covers up, but seems to cut better, 1/3 the price and sharpen easily. And the shape of the blade puts the weight of the blade at the cutting surface, a good thing I assume.

[my64bit]

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I made one from an old planer blade from a veneer mill, pretty heavy, razor sharp and holds it's edge very well. Just don't ever hit yourself with it, it could lob of a leg with ease.

[nakadnu]

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I own Cold Steel, Ontario and Gerber machetes. All are good. I think as long as you buy a name brand with the blade design that fits your needs you will do alright.

[Samexplores]

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I'm obviously just throwing this out there, but if you ever find yourself in a country where machetes are normally used it would be a good idea to get a couple there. In Nicaragua you can purchase a machete for $5 that would cost $100 here in the usa

[Finn]

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+1 on the Cold Steel 18" Kukri machete. Had mine for awhile and its a workhorse.

They have (had?) a line of various style blades in the $20 range. At that price you can abuse it and not be too put out if its damaged. Most retailers stay near that price point also when they sell it.

[RICHFL]

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Here is the best place to get research on all the different types of machetes out there. They talk about the history and type of work each is good for.

So here is the web address: http://www.machetespecialists.com/

Luck

[Caroline]

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I have a couple, nothing to write home about. The one on the right is not considered a machete. The one on the far left is my favorite, it's a IMACASA Made in El Salvador No. 808; lightweight, sturdy handle and wacks just about anything I need to.zulli2 063.jpg