Looking for tough sturdy big fixed blade

For a Cheap "hacker" I'd second the suggestion of Cold Steel Khukri Machete or an authentic Khukri -Nepalese or Indian inexpensive version. The CS Machete is lighter but very agile - the Khukri is heavier, but can chop thru just about anything. Both are easy to resharpen.

 

I have several tomahawks that depending on use might be a better choice... i don't see many og us chopping our wat throught jungles or high brush as it tends to leave a bit of a trail for others to see... a cold steel trail hawk properly sharpened will do more than most machetes and large knives...

Just a thought

 

I have a Kukuri, but it is heavy. But it chops wood great.

 

I have a Khukri I modified. How to Turn a Ghurka Khukri Into a Very Formidable Field Knife

 

My hunting buddy and I just each bought the Gerber Gator Brush Thinner at our local outfitter's store. $43.99 each - not cheap, but this baby is a major cutting implement!
They also had the el cheapo flimsy Chinese-made machete (same one I got years back at Wally's) that is thin and bends easily. Interesting comparison - the Gerber wins hands down!
The Gerber is short and handy, has a stiff blade, has a long comfortable rubber grip, you can even use two hands for really tough cutting/chopping!
I am thinking of filing a saw-tooth edge on the back, and adding nail puller and bottle opener slots to increase versatility. It's stiff enough to use for light digging (catholes when camping...) and will make short work of making kindling.
It would naturally make a WICKED weapon, if the need arose.
The sheath is handy, holds the tool very securely, and the straps allow normal blade-down belt carry or can be mounted veritcally on pack straps.


GerberGear > Product Details > Gator Brush Thinner

 

I think the guys that think that a machete-type blade is only good for S. America should actually try one.

They are quite good at chopping even decent sized wood in two. Splitting is as easy as batoning. I like axes too, but don't disrespect the machete.

 

I agree completely. Here are two articles I cooked up on this topic a little while ago: 5 Types of Machetes – Choose Before You Buy , Survival Axe – Choosing the Best Tool

 

I've used both... in Panama and around the farm i prefer my russian machete to any mentioned here... However the tomahawk can do any thing a machete can do and more... and may be a better survival tool check this video out...

YouTube - Cold Steel Trail Hawk

 

This is one that I have.
I have cut 4 inch branches with it with no problem.
Hacked off Deer legs with it with 1 swipe.
Cleared brush around campsite.
Keeps a sharp edge also.
A2

These are also some good knives
Anza Knives Custom Hand Made Knife

 

Anza knives are great, I have a half a dozen, also got this on sale from amazon Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife:Amazon:Sports & Outdoors

 

I once saw a torture test where a CS Kukri was tested to destruction.. amazing! It depends on what you want to accomplish.. the cheap HUGE Paki bowies are good for chopping small firewood, hold a good edge and are CHEEP. But my favorite will always be an 18 inch blade Ontario cutlass handle machete. Deadly weapon, tree feller and you could dress out game with one in a pinch. They are every bit as tough as the CS. I own both. Now as a pure weapon, the Junglee Short Sword in AUS 8 stainless is hard to beat. I have one on my Blackhawk recon pack

A very good Kukri is the Windlass Steelcraft version