MACHETE is one of my favorite movies.
Why go Cold Steel? Is it cause the blade would last longer and not break with abuse cause its thicker? Basically want a badass sword that wouldn't break killing zombies.
No. because it is a cheap, beater sword, and no one will feel bad when you ruin it.
If I found a great deal on one, and had opportunity to check the fit and finish, they are right up my alley. Tough, heavy, never really going to use them.
But for the money, there are other makers that are building the swords with better steel. 1055 is tough. But not particularly great for edge retention.
They are tough. But don't handle very well compared to many other swords. Heavy is bad if you are using it as a real sword. They do, by most reports cut targets very well, but do not change directions quickly. They are not lively in hand.
But seriously, your response makes me think you might actually take any sword you buy out and chop random items.
If that is what you intent, Busse/Swamprat/Scrapyard knives are a great bet. They are a bit pricey. They are not, in any way at all traditional, but they have a forever warranty, that follows the blade. As long as you don't break it on purpose (like cut it with a torch, or angle grinder), you are covered. I've owned about 14. That 16 inch bladed one you commented on above, would be an arm, head, leg, and tree limb wood chopping beast. No need to worry about it. Chop any reasonable target. Concrete, and metal pipes will ruin the edge, but won't break it, and if it does break, Busse will give you a shop credit for what you paid them for it.
In the sword range, especially in their proprietary steel INFI, you are looking at 1000-2000, and up, especially for two handed swords. In that price range, you can get beautiful, functional, quality, even hand built traditional designs. Both European or Asian.
I own and use many Cold Steel products, and they have a lot of them I really like. I have never bought one of their swords, though. For battle axes, and war hammers, and hawks, and a whole pile of other fun products, they are tough to beat.
For their higher priced items, I would direct you to some other makers. Not because they are not fun, and tough but I think there are better values (at least at non clearance prices).
I've read more than a few reviews that you kind of need to hand pick the Katana style swords from them, because they can have loose fittings, and poor retention in the scabbard (Saya).
Most swords are not going to have any warranty against damage. You can literally ruin most swords in a single bad cut.
If you ruin a Cold Steel sword, and try to get it replaced, when they are done laughing at you, you are not getting a replacement. This holds true for most sword makers.
Take one, and ruin it, and then try to get it replaced. Most will tell you to get lost, if you break their sword, and want it warrantied.
Make sure you have parent permission first, though. Most dealers won't sell to anyone under 18 years old.