My brother and I own a large untamed property filled with wild underbrush and a lot of different types of trees. With him being in the carpentry business, chopping wood has become an activity that I am exposed to on a daily business. Whether it is for a client or just for firewood during camping, my brother spends most of his time chopping wood and making it more presentable. Undoubtedly, it’s a job that requires a lot of energy, but with the correct type of machete, the work can become so much easier.
Surely, being in the carpentry line of business and an avid camper, my brother would need the best machete for chopping wood.
Best Machete Comparisons
Image | Brand | Details | |
---|---|---|---|
CRKT Halfachance Fixed Blade Parang Machete |
|
CHECK THE PRICE | |
Gerber Gear Gator Bolo Machete - 22" |
|
CHECK THE PRICE | |
Condor Tool & Knife, Golok Machete, 14in Blade |
|
CHECK THE PRICE | |
Woodmans Pal - Multi-Use Axe Machete with Sheath |
|
CHECK THE PRICE | |
Fiskars 24” Clearing Machete |
|
CHECK THE PRICE |
Why A Machete and Not A Hatchet?
I know, a lot of you are may be thinking, “Why not just use a hatchet”? Yes, a hatchet may seem like the more optimal tool for cutting wood, but what you don’t know is that he machete is the more versatile option here.
A machete is generally 10” inches long or more whereas a hatchet is only a few inches long. You are going to cover more while chopping with the machete rather than the hatchet. Also, the machete is more lightweight than a hatchet which allows for easier swinging and carrying. If you are traveling long distances or only trying to pack the minimum necessary, the machete is going to be the lighter option.
Cutting the grass using a Machete
It can also chop more than just wood. You aren’t going to go through the woods cutting down all sorts of vegetation with a hatchet, that will tire you out quicker. A machete can be used to cut the tall grass, tree branches, fend off predators and so much more.
Properly Using A Machete
Since the machete is such a versatile tool, there is more that you can do with it than just cutting wood. While you are out and about with your machete, it is best to know how to properly swing and use it, you shouldn’t just go all willy nilly jungle adventurer style. This is something that my husband would do, which is why I have to explain to him about the importance of properly using one.
Proper Clothing
The first thing you are going to want to do is dress properly which includes wearing heavy duty shoes, work gloves, and long pants. The long pants are ideal for protecting against ticks and other nasty bugs that can latch on.
Swinging & Cutting
While you are physically using the machete, it is important to cut in front of yourself and take large swings. You are going to want to lead with your elbow so that the blade will cut at the right angle to make slices in the stalks, stems and thick branches.
You should also avoid reaching out to one side to make quick cuts and never grab the brush-or whatever you are cutting- with one hand and swinging the machete with the other. There is always that risk of cutting yourself if you do that.
Recognize Your Surroundings
- Some may not think it is important, but you should always be aware of your surroundings. While you are swinging away, make sure kids and pets aren’t running up to you to check out what you are doing.
- Check for little critters! If you are in an area where poisonous snakes slither, check the brush before you go in it, same goes for dangerous turtles.
- Check for poisonous plants such as poison ivy. The best way to remember this is to examine the plant and think to yourself, “leaves of three, let it be”. If you come in contact with poison ivy, it should lead to a rash that could be quite severe and itchy.
Machetes Ideal For Chopping Wood
If you thought that every machete was the same, you thought wrong. There are certain machetes that are better for cutting vegetation rather than wood and others that are better for wood than vegetation. So, what are these you ask?
Weighted Machete
The weighted machete is a cross between an axe and a knife, so a lean mean cutting machine essentially. You will notice that the weighted machete has a large rounded end and the edge is flat, which is ideal for chopping wood and other thick woody vegetation.
The Panga Machete
You may have heard about these since they are so popular, but in case you haven’t, the Panga is optimal for chopping thick woody vegetation. The reason for this is because it has a deep belly which gives it that added weight for chopping.
The Two Handed Machete
This is another one that is the right tool for cutting wood. This one has a longer handle that accommodates two hands rather than just one. You will then have more swinging power and better hewing. It is also ideal for additional reaching and you will be able to cut just about anything that has to do with wood.
Top Machetes For Chopping Wood Reviews
CRKT Halfachance Fixed Blade Parang Machete
- 21.5 x 4.75 x 1.8 inches
- 1 pound
- 420 HC Stainless Steel Blade
- Manufacturer’s warranty can be requested from customer service.
The CRKT Halfachance Fixed Blade Parang Machete is made from 65Mn steel for a combination of hardness, area-conserving capability, and sturdiness. The 14-inch blade features an extended arc facet, that means the fullness of the blade is carried evenly via the top for a very good aggregate of stability and electricity. It is powder-covered for safety against rust and corrosion. This machete is designed to slice and chop similarly nicely. The ergonomic, double injection molded manage reduces person fatigue and includes a couple of lanyard holes for one-of-a-kind grip options. You can’t go wrong with CRKT machete for chopping wood.
PROS
- Comes sharp from the factory
- High Impact Polypropylene handle
- Durable
- Heavy duty
- Balanced blade
- Resists staining and rust
- Can cut through hardwood efficiently
- Well constructed leather sheath
CONS
- Point might not be very sharp
Gerber Gear Gator Bolo 22 Inch Machete
- 18 x 5 x 2 inches
- 1.6 pounds
- Carbon steel blade
- Lifetime warranty
A conventional jungle device updated for modern-day application, the Gerber Gator Bolo is modeled after a classic form used for generations inside the Philippines to clean plants, chop meals and reduce wood congestion. Gerber’s updates encompass an ergonomic deal with shape, slip-evidence grip, and hefty complete tang creation for year after year durability.
Designed to withstand extreme conditions, the Gator Bolo Machete comes with a rugged nylon sheath for safety and portability. The total blade length is 15.5” and is made of 1050 corrosion resistant carbon steel. This blade makes cutting and chopping a breeze with its sure grip ergonomic handle, you can’t go wrong choosing the Gerber Gear Gator as the best wood chopping machete.
PROS
- Handy tool for camping
- Good quality
- Easy to hold
- Sharp blade out of the package
- Comes with a lanyard
CONS
- A little heavy
Condor Tool & Knife, Golok Machete, 14in Blade
- 24.8 x 4 x 3.8 inches
- 1.10 pounds
- 5160 carbon steel blade
- Manufacturer’s warranty can be requested from customer service.
The Condor 14-Inch Golok Machete (CTK41014HCS) is one of the smoothest and most efficient Condor machete available. Condor is the gold standard in machetes known for its excellent durability. This Golok Machete has a gorgeous walnut handle which grips perfectly; making it feel like an extension of your arm. The sleek, traditional golok design of the blade paired with a 14-inch length blade makes this a very versatile device that can be used for lots extraordinary responsibilities like cutting thick vegetation, slashing through tall grass, or chopping wood effortlessly.
PROS
- Full Tang construction
- Brushed satin finish
- Lanyard included
- High quality spring temper
- Well balanced blade
CONS
- Not sealed or waterproof
- Wood handle might be a bit small
Woodmans Pal - Multi-Use Axe Machete with Sheath
- 22.5 x 8.5 x 2.5 inches
- 1.48 pounds
- Steel blade
- Limited lifetime warranty
The Woodmans Pal is a versatile tool that combines the features of an axe and a machete, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and campers. It boasts a strong, durable, and sharp 10-inch blade made of high-carbon steel, capable of cutting through thick vegetation, small trees, and wood. Its unique handle design offers a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue and ensuring easy maneuverability. The included premium leather sheath provides excellent protection and enables easy transport when not in use, no doubt this is one of the best premium machete for chopping wood.
PROS
- Non-slip
- Gator grip enhances comfort
- Versatile
- Corrosion resistant
- Easy to sharpen
- Full tang construction
CONS
- Expensive
Fiskars 24” Clearing Machete
- 3 x 8 x 26 inches
- 2.7 pounds
- Rust resistant steel blade
- Warranty available upon request
The Fiskars 24” clearing machete is an optimal wood cutting tool. It has the power to cut through thick branches, palms, brush and it so much more. The 15” curved blade is what makes it all possible. The curved blade helps prevent sticking in dense growth areas.
The one-handed grip allows you to leave one hand free to grab for cutting, although not really recommended. The handle is comfortable and long enough to allow you to choke up for precise swinging. The handle also has Intelligent texture pattern that has large dimples and a sculptures profile that fits the natural shape of most hands to prevent blisters.
The blade is made from a rust-resistant steel blade that stays sharp through heavy use. The low-friction coating allows the machete to glide easier through the wood without sticking.
PROS
- One-handed use
- Soft grip handle
- Good design
- Fit hands well
CONS
- Became dull quickly
- Poorly fitted scabbard
Which One Would I Recommend?
After having carefully evaluated the various types of machetes for chopping wood, I think that the ‘Gerber Gear Gator Bolo Machete‘ is the best machete for chopping trees. Not only does it come with a full tang construction, but it also comes with a blasted satin blade finish. My brother especially admires its high chopping power which helps him to chop thick branches in our property.
Another reason why I chose this particular machete as the winner is because, despite a reasonably lower price tag, it is one of the few top-rated machetes that can chop dense hardwood without cracking or chipping. The grip on the machete is also very comfortable as it doesn’t create any hot-spots that could lead to blisters and the polypropylene handle maintains the grip even when my hands get sweaty! Plus, it also has a stain and rust resistant blade. Do you think this is the best machete for chopping?