Best Machete for Survival (2023)

A machete is an essential tool in any survival situation, offering versatility and practicality in a variety of tasks. Whether you’re navigating through dense vegetation, building an emergency shelter, or preparing firewood, a machete can make all the difference. The best machete for survival is one that is dependable, durable, and tailor-made for the particular challenges you may face.

Machetes come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, each designed for specific purposes. Some have a heavier weight and curved blade, making them ideal for chopping and clearing foliage, while others feature a lighter, straighter blade for precision slicing and carving tasks. With such a wide range of options available, it’s crucial to consider which type of machete will best suit your needs.

We’re digging deeper into various machete types and their distinct features to further guide your decision.

Best Survival Machetes

Explore our top picks for the best survival machetes available on Amazon. Designed for various scenarios, these outstanding tools will cater to your outdoor needs, ensuring optimal durability and performance.

Gerber Gear Gator Machete – 25″ Dual-Purpose Machete

Get the job done efficiently with this Machete designed to help you beat back the underbrush and trailblazing, complete with dual saw and plain edge blade, and a comfortable grip.

Pros

• 18″ plain edge steel blade and full performance saw blade
• Textured Gator Grip rubberized handle for comfort and control
• Corrosion-resistant high carbon stainless steel

Cons

• Could be sharper right out of the box
• May feel nose heavy during use
• Sheath may seem flimsy to some users

This Gerber Gear Gator Machete is a versatile tool designed for both chopping and sawing, making it an ideal choice for your survival needs. Its 18″ plain edge steel blade on one side and a full performance saw blade on the reverse side ensures you’re prepared for any situation you might face in the wilderness.

The textured Gator Grip rubberized handle allows you to maintain a comfortable, secure grip through any use, wet or dry. You’ll be able to clear the underbrush confidently, knowing that its corrosion-resistant high carbon stainless steel will stand the test of time.

Despite these advantages, some users may feel that the blade could be sharper right out of the box. In addition, the machete’s balance may be a concern for some, feeling nose-heavy during use. Also, while it comes with a durable nylon sheath for secure carrying and storage, some may find the sheath on the flimsier side.

Camillus Carnivore Machete

The Camillus Carnivore is a reliable choice for survival situations with its versatile features and durable construction.

Pros

• Strong titanium-bonded 420 stainless steel blade
• Textured handle for improved grip
• Ballistic nylon sheath and bonus trimming knife

Cons

• Heavy 18-inch blade might be challenging for some users
• Smaller trimming knife may not be included
• Pricier compared to similar machetes on the market

When you’re out in the wilderness, the need for a quality survival machete can’t be overstated. That’s where the Camillus Carnivore steps in. This robust survival machete is designed not only for cutting, but also for digging, sawing, chiseling, and gutting, ensuring that you’ll be equipped for a variety of tasks in any outdoor setting.

One of the standout features of the Camillus Carnivore is its 18-inch full-tang blade constructed from titanium-bonded 420 stainless steel. This impressive material makes the blade three times stronger than untreated steel, allowing it to maintain sharpness and resist wear over time.

The handle of the Camillus Carnivore has a textured surface, providing enhanced grip and confidence during use. This large survival knife also features a ballistic nylon sheath made from thick, durable fabric, protecting the machete from debris and other foreign materials while you’re on the move. Plus, it comes with a convenient belt loop for easy carrying in the wilderness.

One of the additional perks of this survival machete is the inclusion of a bonus 5-inch skeletonized trimming knife with 7 and 9mm hex heads. This extra trimming knife can be stored inside the machete’s handle when not in use, ensuring that you have a versatile set of tools at your disposal in outdoor survival situations.

While the Camillus Carnivore Machete offers numerous advantages, some potential drawbacks include its weight and price. The 18-inch blade might be too heavy for some users, impacting its overall convenience and maneuverability. Additionally, the price point may be higher than some other machetes on the market, making it a less attractive option for those on a budget.

FLISSA Machete 11” Fixed Blade

A reliable machete for survival needs with a shock-absorbing handle and durable, sharp blade.

Pros

• Ergonomic Air Tech handle reduces vibration and wrist fatigue
• 3.6mm thick blade with excellent cutting performance
• Versatile 11-inch size for multiple applications

Cons

• Slightly heavier than some competitors at 1.06 lbs
• Might require sharpening for optimal performance
• The sheath may lack durability over time

The FLISSA Machete features a comfortable, ergonomic Air Tech handle with transparent air columns designed to absorb shock and minimize wrist fatigue during use. With a 3.6mm thick blade made from 3Cr13 stainless steel, it offers impressive cutting capabilities and is perfect for various tasks – from clearing brush to harvesting crops and felling trees.

Weighing 1.06 lbs, this 11-inch machete has a suitable size and weight balance for handling various tasks, yet remains easy to carry around. The sharp tip and broad knife body make it an excellent digging tool, another advantage in a survival scenario.

As a multi-purpose tool, this machete is ideal for gardening, land management, bushcraft, hunting, and outdoor adventures. While it may require some sharpening and improvements to the sheath for optimal performance, its overall durability, versatile size, and innovative handle design make it a strong contender for a reliable survival machete.

Buying Guide

Blade Material

When looking for the best survival machete, consider the blade’s material. Quality machetes are typically made from high carbon steel or stainless steel. High carbon steel is preferred due to its durability and ability to hold a sharp edge longer. Stainless steel, though rust resistant, tends to be less durable and may require more frequent sharpening.

Blade Length and Thickness

Assess the blade length and thickness. A good survival machete should have a blade length between 12 and 24 inches. Longer blades provide more reach and cutting power; however, they may be more difficult to wield in tight spaces. As for thickness, a thicker blade withstands more stress and is suitable for tasks like chopping wood, while a thinner blade is better for slicing and precision tasks.

Handle Material and Design

The handle contributes to the overall comfort, grip, and usability of your machete. Common handle materials include rubber, wood, and Micarta. Rubber handles provide excellent grip even in wet conditions, while wood handles offer a traditional aesthetic. Micarta, made from layers of resin and fabric, is durable and comfortable. Choose a handle with ergonomic designs and finger grooves to avoid hand fatigue during extended use.

Blade Style

Choose a blade style that matches your specific needs in a survival situation. Common machete styles include:

• Kukri: Features a curved blade with a wide belly, suitable for heavy chopping tasks and self-defense.
• Bolo: Broad and weighted at the tip, ideal for chopping vegetation and handling a variety of camp chores.
• Parang: Has a curved blade reminiscent of a scimitar, excellent for clearing brush and cutting wood.

Consider these factors when selecting the best survival machete to ensure you have a reliable and efficient tool at your disposal.