Best Machete and Kukri: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Tool for Your Needs
The machete and kukri are two of the most versatile and powerful tools available to outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and gardeners alike. Whether you’re trekking through the jungle, clearing a path in your backyard, or dealing with a survival situation, having the right tool by your side can make all the difference. In this article, we will explore the best machete and kukri options currently on the market and provide some guidance on how to select the right one for your specific needs.
For preppers residing in the American South, characterized by its lush pine forests, dense undergrowth, swamps, and bayous, incorporating a machete, kukri, bolo, or similar jungle knife into their survival kit is highly recommended. The finest kukri or machete can effectively fulfill most cutting tasks typically performed with a hatchet, making them a suitable alternative.
The historical development of these blade styles by indigenous cultures in hot climates over centuries holds significance. These regions necessitated blades capable of handling the specific challenges posed by soft pine forests and dense undergrowth, as opposed to the wedge-on-a-stick tools like axes and hatchets that emerged in colder climates to handle hardwoods found in northern forests.
Machetes offer exceptional value for money, as they are relatively inexpensive and lightweight. We have extensively used and tested budget-friendly surplus army machetes in the woods for years without experiencing any failures or degradation. Therefore, while some machetes in the market may cost over $300, we believe that spending around $30 is more than sufficient.
Different machete names, such as bolo, parang, and billhook, indicate variations in blade shapes. Although we considered these distinctions, we did not find it necessary to categorize them separately for this review. Hence, we refer to all of them collectively as “machetes.”
On the other hand, the kukri stands apart due to its distinctive recurve shape, which demands a thicker and heavier blade made from superior steel compared to the average machete. Consequently, a good quality kukri comes at a higher price point compared to a machete.
The Machete
A machete is a broad, heavy knife with a blade that typically ranges from 12 to 24 inches in length. It is a versatile tool used for a wide range of tasks, including chopping, slicing, and clearing vegetation. Here are some of the top machete options available:
Cold Steel Latin Machete
The Cold Steel Latin Machete is a popular choice for its durability and affordability. With a 1055 carbon steel blade and a comfortable polypropylene handle, this machete is perfect for extended use in any environment.
Price: $28.40
Gerber Gator Machete
The Gerber Gator Machete is a two-sided tool, featuring a high-carbon stainless steel blade on one side and a saw blade on the other. The Gator Grip handle ensures a secure grip, making it a reliable option for those who need a versatile machete.
Price: $28.37
Condor Tool & Knife Golok Machete
The Condor Golok Machete features a high-carbon steel blade and a durable walnut handle. The blade is designed for efficient chopping, making it perfect for clearing brush or tackling tough vegetation.
Price: $97.21
The Kukri
The kukri is a traditional Nepalese knife characterized by its distinctive curved blade, which makes it a highly effective chopping and slicing tool. Some of the best kukri options on the market include:
Ka-Bar Kukri
The Ka-Bar Kukri features a 1085 carbon steel blade and a Kraton G handle for a comfortable and secure grip. The full tang construction ensures durability and strength, making this kukri an excellent choice for various tasks.
Price: $75.87
Cold Steel Gurkha Kukri
The Cold Steel Gurkha Kukri features a VG-1 stainless steel blade and a Kraton handle. The blade is incredibly sharp and retains its edge well, making it a reliable choice for those who need a high-quality kukri.
Price: $764.99
Condor Tool & Knife Heavy Duty Kukri
The Condor Heavy Duty Kukri boasts a high-carbon steel blade and a hardwood handle. The full tang construction ensures durability and strength, while the thick blade allows for efficient chopping and slicing.
Price: $ 117.91
Best Machete
Our Pick: OKC Military Machete
For the majority of individuals, the highly recommended machete is the OKC Military Machete, priced at $35. This particular machete follows a standard, time-tested military design that has been produced by OKC for several decades. It offers all the essential functionalities one would expect from a machete at a reasonable price point. OKC is renowned as a reputable knife manufacturer, and their blades are featured prominently in our other reviews.
Price: $35
Another excellent option is the Tramontina 24″ Machete, available at a price of $20. This machete stands out for its longer blade, providing increased reach and leverage. Tramontina, a well-known Brazilian brand, is highly regarded for its machetes, which are widely favored for gardening and brush clearing purposes. Choosing the Tramontina 24″ Machete offers a reliable and cost-effective solution for various outdoor tasks.
If you find yourself seeking a higher-quality option beyond the sub $40 range for your prepping needs, the Condor El Salvador Machete is a recommended upgrade priced at $75. This machete boasts a coated, 1075 carbon steel blade and a comfortable polypropylene handle. With its premium design and “tactical” appearance, you can confidently carry it without the concern of being mocked by fellow preppers for having a cheap gardening tool during an apocalypse scenario. The Condor El Salvador Machete combines both functionality and aesthetics, making it a reliable choice for your preparedness endeavors.
Best Kukri
Our Pick: Condor Tool & Knife Heavy Duty Kukri
If you are specifically seeking a jungle blade that excels in chopping thicker wood while also being suitable for stabbing, the Condor Tool & Knife Heavy Duty Kukri is a highly recommended choice among preppers. Priced at $95, this kukri is frequently endorsed by seasoned preppers. It’s worth noting that this particular blade was utilized by Alan Kay, the winner of Season 1 of the History Channel’s Alone, and is even carried by one of our own experts. The Condor Tool & Knife Heavy Duty Kukri offers the durability and versatility required for demanding outdoor tasks and has earned its place as a standard recommendation within the prepping community.
Price: $95
For those seeking a significant upgrade in terms of materials, fit, and finish, the Cold Steel Gurkha Kukri priced at $185 is an exceptional performer. This kukri boasts an ultra-tough blade crafted from O1 tool steel, known for its remarkable durability and ability to retain sharpness even under demanding conditions. The Cold Steel Gurkha Kukri has garnered popularity and received positive reviews from users, making it a standout choice in the kukri category. In many ways, this impressive blade can be considered the Kukri equivalent of the highly recommended Trailmaster Bowie knife featured in our comprehensive Bowie knife review.
Price: $185
When it comes to the finest traditional kukri options available, the top choice is the 15″ Ang Khola priced at $275. This particular model is the best-selling blade from the extensive collection offered by Himalayan Imports. Handcrafted in Nepal, the Ang Khola is constructed using high-carbon spring steel and comes with the option of a wood or horn handle. Despite the unassuming appearance of Himalayan Imports’ website, they have long been recognized as the preferred destination for devoted kukri enthusiasts. The brand’s reputation for exceptional quality and legendary customer service has solidified their position in the kukri market for decades.
Price: $275
Machete Types
In general, when it comes to jungle blades, the design and characteristics play a significant role in their performance. Blades that are shorter in length and have more mass towards the tip, such as bolos or parangs, excel at cutting thicker wood. On the other hand, blades that are longer with less mass towards the tip, like regular machetes, are better suited for handling brush, vines, and smaller diameter wood pieces.
The kukri, also known as kukuri, possesses a shorter blade with more mass towards the tip, making it highly effective for chopping tasks and capable of matching the performance of a hatchet, particularly with softer wood varieties. Although the recurve blade style of the kukri can be slightly more challenging to sharpen, it offers a greater cutting edge within a smaller surface area, thereby enhancing its chopping capabilities. This unique combination of excellent chopping ability and the added functionality of a “big knife” stabbing ability makes the kukri a formidable weapon, which is why it remains a staple tool in the villages and military forces of Central Asia.
Choosing the Right Tool
When deciding between a machete and a kukri, consider the specific tasks you will be performing. A machete is generally more versatile, making it an excellent choice for a range of activities, from clearing brush to slicing through branches. A kukri, on the other hand, excels at chopping and slicing tasks, making it ideal for wood processing or clearing dense vegetation.
Conclusion
Both the machete and kukri have their unique strengths and advantages, making them essential tools for outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and gardeners alike. By considering your specific needs and the features of each tool, you can choose the best machete or kukri to add to your collection. No matter your choice, you’ll be well-equipped for a range of outdoor tasks and adventures.