Best small machete

The 12" Condor Inca knife is excellent. I have been using mine for more than 2 years. I recently picked up a 12" Cold Steel Panga Machete and it is okay but I still prefer the Condor.
 
I really like my Ontario Camp, it is 12 inches long, very solidly built. Expect to have to put a new edge on any machete you buy, all of mine I put 3 hours into before I even cut anything with it. The ontario holds its edge well. RAT is producing a machete soon as well, that one will be in my collection.
 
PayetteRucker said:
I really like my Ontario Camp, it is 12 inches long, very solidly built. Expect to have to put a new edge on any machete you buy, all of mine I put 3 hours into before I even cut anything with it. The ontario holds its edge well. RAT is producing a machete soon as well, that one will be in my collection.
Click to expand...

The RAT one is a collaboration with Condor. Word on the street says it'll be a carbon steel El Salvador model blade with micarta handles provided by Rowen Manufacturing. Sweetness. :cool::thumbup:
 
The Ontario Camp machete is rugged and holds a good edge. It's a bit thicker and heavier than some others and you can get their cordura sheath for it.

OKC12022.jpg
 
I've been using the martindale golok but I reshaped the blade to more of a seax style and reground (convexed) the edge somewhat.Its a cutting machine, especially on wood as opposed to soft vegetation.And I don't think I need to mention the fact that seaxes were used as combat weapons for hundreds of years.
 
I have the condor inca knife. I haven't had it long, but I am impressed so far. I came sharp and with a solid leather sheath (just wish it was a lefty). I batoned 5" logs last night to build a fire.
Roy
 
So many short machetes to chose from. It is a bit costly, but the Bark River golok is the choppingest little "machete" I know of. But most any of them will work if you put a good edge on them.

Goloks002.jpg
 
Condor (but of course I would say that):
New Carbon Bolo 15"
Golok 15"

They are coming out with a 12" bolo and 14" Carbon later.


In the mean time, I may have a 14" Imacasa (Condor's parent company) Machete if you need one. They are a little thinner, but chop pretty well. Since they are thin, I would recommend putting a steeper edge on the critter. Its one slicey guy.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v646/Joezilla/DSC08807.jpg

Ka-bar has a larger bowie and kukri like critter that is outstanding when you work the edge


The David Farmer Golok was a JOY to use, and may be right up your alley as well.

J
 
If you mean the ones with the molded on handles, yes I have used them. I removed the knuckle guard on mine. These handles will not come loose like the riveted ones do, so I guess that is the improvemet. They also have a new economy line that has thinner blades for those who prefer lighter, more flexible machetes.
 
Horn Dog said:
If you mean the ones with the molded on handles, yes I have used them. I removed the knuckle guard on mine. These handles will not come loose like the riveted ones do, so I guess that is the improvemet. They also have a new economy line that has thinner blades for those who prefer lighter, more flexible machetes.
Click to expand...

I was wondering about he knuckle guards. I was kinda digging them. It is looking like the Tromontina since I want something short that can be kept in side my bag when not in use. Thanks for all the solid information guys.- George
 
I am a big fan of Tramontina machetes, but in the short ones, I prefer the Ontarios. That 1/8" thick blade adds some mass for better chopping performance.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top