Best Machete for Camping: Guides for Buying Survival Gears

Do you need to know the best machete for camping that is perfect for you because you are going camping? Depending on the type of cultivation, machetes can be useful in both forests and gardens. They are popular tools among people who go outside a lot, and they are fun to use.

A machete can also function as a reliable tool for self-defense if the situation calls for it. That implies that, just in case, we should always prepare for the unexpected.

Selecting a machete that performs tasks effectively and efficiently without straining your budget or causing physical discomfort is crucial. 

These tools vary in shape and size, offering diverse options for potential users. Continue reading to discover top machete recommendations suited for different purposes.

Best 10 Machetes for Camping Anytime

The best survival machete and most popular machetes for camping in 2023 are:

1. Kukri Machete

It is a powerful chopping machete and a condor tool. You can get it at an affordable price. The cold steel kukri machete is a daily companion for the Nepalese.

It is known for its chopping ability by its thicker blade. The Cold Steel Kukri stands out for its affordability, comfort, and durability and is the best choice. It is a 13-inch 1055 carbon steel blade. It delivers on its workhorse reputation.

The forward curve balances swings. That makes it effective for delimbing branches and creating shooting lanes. The sturdy tang construction and anti-rust finish ensure longevity. Cold Steel's reputation in the knife industry adds credibility to this reliable kukri.

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2. Kershaw Camp 10

This is the best camping machete and is a perfect balance for camp chores. The Kershaw Camp 10 strikes a balance between a large knife and a compact machete. That makes it perfect for camping chores that don't require extensive reach.

It has a 10-inch 65Mn carbon steel blade, which provides heft for powerful swings. The ergonomic design and rubberized handle offer comfort during extended use. Lanyard holes enhance hand security, and the black powder coat protects the blade.

Kershaw's reputation for high-quality yet budget-friendly blades shines in Camp 10. That makes it a good tool for people who love camping.

3. Tramontina Bush Machete

It is a machete with a simple design and a great choice. It has a powerful performance with a gerber gator. The Tramontina Bush Machete epitomizes the classic machete design—simple yet effective.

The heavy-duty machete is an 18-inch 1070 carbon steel blade. It excels in clearing brush and dense vegetation.

The traditional design, coupled with a durable wooden handle, makes it a reliable choice for various outdoor tasks. While lacking a sheath, its unbeatable price and performance make it a practical option for those seeking a straightforward and efficient machete.

4. TOPS Knives El Chete

This machete is a good option and a rugged powerhouse for survival situations. When survival demands raw force, the TOPS Knives El Chete steps up. It is a 12-inch 1095 carbon steel blade.

This machete is for robust chopping tasks. The black and green Micarta handle provides a comfortable and secure hold, even in challenging conditions. 

The full 0.25-inch-thick blade ensures durability and strength. The out-the-front sheath design enhances safety during deployment.

This machete is what anyone can use to survive a survival scenario or for simple agricultural use no matter the weight that is heavy for most people.

5. Condor Tool & Knife Parang Machete

Another long blade this one measures 17 12 inches and is great for cutting thick foliage. The Condor Tool & Knife Parang Machete is a force to be reckoned with. The blade is made of thick 1075 high carbon steel and has black epoxy powder-coated faces, satin grinds, and a spine.

The full-tang handle has wooden scales. It comes with a high-quality leather sheath. The term "Parang" comes from Indonesia and refers to a style with long blades that can cut through wood. It has a wooden handle for a sure hold and a premium leather sheath rather than a nylon sheath.'

6. Sog Sogfari 18 Inch Machete

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools MC02-N SOG Fari is like a super handy tool that has a real saw on the back of the blade.

It's been used for all many things like clearing brush, making trails, chopping wood, building shelters, and even helping with crops. The blade is made of 3CR13 steel and has a cool black skin.

The 18-inch saw back is shaped like a machete, great for exploring and clearing paths. The handle is comfy to hold with a black blade, made of Craton, and has a rubbery surface so it won't slip, even in the heat or bad weather.

There's a hole at the bottom of the handle for a lanyard. It comes with a black nylon sheath that closes with a hook and loop and can attach to your belt to keep the knife safe and close. The whole knife is 24 inches long, the blade is 0.08 inches thick, and it weighs 15.7 ounces.

The SOG Specialty Knives & Tools MC02-N Machete with 18-inch Dual Steel Straight Edge and Saw Blade comes with a lifetime guarantee, which covers all problems with how it's made.

Each SOG product is designed by the company's founder, Spencer Frazer, known for making knives and tools that are tough, reliable, and have a cool, futuristic style.

People who really need their tools to work, like in the military or law enforcement, really like SOG products because they perform great even in really tough conditions.

7. Gator Bolo Machetes

Throughout Southeast Asia, the bolo machete is a widely used agricultural tool. This particular machete model has a big bulge that adds weight to the foreblade for more cutting strength, making it perfect for harvesting crops like peanuts and rice in narrow rows.

Bolo machetes in every price are available. The redesigned Bolo is based on the traditional shape that has been clearing, chopping, and cutting for decades. The full tang construction, the ergonomic handle form, and the non-slip grip are clever design updates: part axe, part trimmer—all business.

8. Crkt Halfachance Fixed Blade Machete

Check out this ‎Crkt Halfachance machete – it's one of the cheapest ones around, and it looks like a sword, pretty cool! If you're not a fan of the black powder look and like shiny steel, this is a good choice.

The handle is made of hardwood, so you can grab onto it well. But if you're using it for a long time, you may want to tape your hands because hardwood can give you blisters. In Columbia, CRKT is like the go-to brand for machetes, and people there really know their machetes.

Rural workers in South America's countryside use these machetes a lot. And guess what? They're getting popular in other places too because CRKT gives you a great deal – it's a no-frills, budget-friendly work machete.

9. Fiskars 29 Inch Machete Axe

This machete not only has a long 18-inch blade, but it has an axe on the end! The axe is the best machete if you need to chop a lot of wood.  Also, when the blade becomes an axe, there is a curvature that works very well for pull-cutting. 

Pull-cutting is useful when you need to clear something that is a moving target, like vines. This is something I would recommend to someone looking for variety.'

10. Gerber Doubledown Folding Machete

The DoubleDown Folding Machete, created in the United States, is an outdoor tool with never-before-seen functionality and a novel design.

The DoubleDown folds up to half its size and may be readily stowed in a bag, on a belt, or attached to MOLLE. The innovative design makes the user to do three things in one compact package: chop, cut, and baton.

A four-lock mechanism that is patent-pending engages in three positions to ensure safe operation under a lot of stress. The Doubledown is not like other tools available.

It combines the functions of a knife, machete, and hatchet into one small package. We were obsessed with durability during development, knowing that it would resist years of impact while still maintaining finesse.

What to Consider When Choosing a Machete

It is easy to step into the market to get a Machete but knowing the best one to choose might be a big deal. 

1. Budget

The first thing you should consider is getting the machete you can afford. You don't need to break the bank just to get a machete.

2. Environment 

You also have to know the kind of environment you are going to before you buy any machete. Buy the one that can match the environmental condition.

3. Construction

Another thing you need to consider before getting a machete is the construction and unique design. You need to go for high-quality steel that the construction is very durable. It will surely last for you to use again and again.

4. Weight

When buying a machete, consider both the weight of the machete and how long it will last.  A machete should be lightweight but flexible enough to be used again and again.

Guides for Buying Survival Gears

Survival situations demand preparation, and having the right gear can be the difference between facing challenges confidently or struggling unnecessarily.

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a prepper, or someone keen on being ready for the unexpected, you will get valuable insights into buying survival gear that will serve you well in various scenarios.

1. Purpose and Terrain

Define Your Adventure and understand the specific activities you'll be engaging in, whether it's hiking, camping, or a more extreme wilderness expedition. You also need to know your terrain.

Consider the environment you'll be navigating—forests, mountains, deserts, or a combination. Gear requirements vary based on terrain.

2. Durability and Quality

Invest in Quality and prioritize gear made from durable materials for great value. Quality equipment may cost more initially but often proves more reliable in the long run.

You also need to check reviews. Research and read user reviews to gauge the durability and performance of potential gear choices.

3. Versatility

If possible, get multi-functional gear with the best material for a good reason. Opt for items that serve multiple purposes. Versatile gear helps lighten your load and ensures you're prepared for various situations.

4. Weight and Portability

Go for lightweight options because it is crucial for backpackers to have a survival knife. Choose lightweight gear without compromising functionality and good balance. Also, choose compact designs. Look for items with compact designs or those that can be easily folded or collapsed.

5. Weather

Also, consider the seasonal needs for heavy duty. Tailor your gear to the season. Cold-weather gear, rain protection, and sunblock become essential based on the climate. You can also invest in waterproof or water-resistant gear, including clothing and equipment.

6. Emergency Preparedness

A comprehensive first aid and survival kit is non-negotiable. Add necessities like bandages, sanitizers, analgesics, and any prescription drugs that may be required. Also carry a map, compass, or GPS device to ensure you can find your way, especially in unfamiliar terrain.

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Should I Oil My Machete?

Yes, you should oil your machete. This is one of the ways you can maintain your machete. That is especially true if it is made of carbon steel. For carbon steel, frequent oiling creates a barrier that inhibits rust and stops moisture-induced corrosion; however, it's not required for stainless machetes.

A small coating of non-detergent oil, like 3 in 1 oil, will help maintain the integrity of the blade. That is because carbon steel is always easy to rust. Anytime your machete gets in touch with any fluid, make sure that you dry it completely. That is to avoid rusting. 

How Often Should You Oil a Blade?

To keep your carbon steel blade in good shape and stop it from rusting, you need to put on a protective coating. It's like giving your blade a shield. You can use a special oil like Hanwei Sword Oil, but regular machine oil or light mineral oil works fine, too. Some folks use WD40, but it disappears after a while, so we don't suggest it.

Another option is using wax, like Renaissance Wax. It was made by the British Museum to protect their stuff, and it's great for sword blades.

Put it on with a cloth, and it'll become hard to make a strong barrier against rust. It's good to oil your blade about once a month or after you use it. If you're in a humid place, you might need to do it more often.

Best Metal for a Good Machete Blade

Carbon steel is what people have used for a really long time to make machete blades. It's a mix of iron and carbon.

The carbon makes the iron-strong and the whole thing hard, but if there's too much carbon, it can make the steel kind of easy to break. Carbon steel has been used for more than 4,000 years!

Compared to stainless steel, carbon steel is usually harder for heavy work and stays sharp for a longer time. But when you need to sharpen it, it's a bit tricky because it's so strong.

The not-so-good part about carbon steel is that it can rust easily. So, to take care of it, you just need to keep it away from moisture.

What Size Machete is Best?

The size/length of the blade of the machete is what anyone should consider before he or she buys a machete. There are different sizes of machetes out there.

Just as you see on the list of the best machetes you can go camping with that was mentioned above, The length of the machete starts from 10 inches, and the most prevalent is 18 inches.

The size also depends on what you need to do with the machete. Smaller machetes that have 10-inch blades are more portable to carry around and can also control precise tasks.

But longer blades that are around 28 inches can be used to clear an area that is covered with bush in no time. 

The 18-inch length is well-balanced and suitable for several outdoor activities. When you decide to get a machete, think about what you want to use it for.

While some people may not find a machete necessary, possessing the proper one can greatly improve your outdoor experience. The machete that best fits your needs and surroundings is the best one.