A machete is a sharp blade that is 30 to 45 centimeters and 3mm thick. It was first made in Spain and was used to refer to sledge harmers. In most countries, machetes have thereby become part of their daily life.
Common uses of Machete
Machetes are sharp blades that can be used for harvesting purposes like sugarcane, barley among others. They can also be used during warfare activities as a self-defense weapon. During hunting and hiking machetes can be used to collect firewood and clear pathways.
Types of Machete and their uses
Machetes have different uses and purposes depending on what you want to do. They also have different shapes that make them suitable for their functions. Here are 16 types of machetes and their uses. They include;
- Barong Machete
The barong machete is also known as the barung or rawit. It was mainly used by the Philippines and has a leaf-shaped blade. It is used during hunting and livestock slaughtering.
- Billhook Machete
It is made of stainless steel and has a curved blade. Its curved blade is suitable for cutting wood items like grapevines, shrubs, branches, and tree chunks. It can also be used during hedge construction and charcoal making.
- Bolo Machete
The bolo machete has a bulged blade at the tip. It is used for agricultural purposes like harvesting crops and chopping woody vegetation.
- Bowie Machete
It is named after Jim Bowie an American and is also known as the wilderness machete. The Bowie Machete has a clip-pointed tip. It is used by survivalists for hunting needs like skinning of wild game.
- Bush Machete
The bush machete is also known as the Latin machete and has a straight blade. It can be used to cut green vegetation and Is also a multi-purpose tool. It is also very portable and fits in its sheath easily.
- Panga Machete
This machete is Africa originated and is also known as the Daga. It can be used for slicing and chopping purposes.
- Kukri Machete
The Kukri Machete or the Rant is a multi-purpose tool that has three parts of the blade. The pointed tip can be used for stabbing during self-defense while the midsection and narrow area of the blade can also be used for chopping.
- Hawkbill Machete
It is also known as the Uma is curved and has both sharp sides. It can be used for cutting tall grass and hard material.
- Colima Machete
This Machete is also known as the Panzo. It has both sides sharpened and a blunt tip. Also, it can be used for cutting vegetation in a sweeping motion.
- Cane Machete
The cane machete is also known as the corn knife and has a hook blade. Its main purpose is to cut sugarcane or bamboo.
- Combat Machete
The combat Machete has a sharp point that can be used for piercing and cutting. It also has a handle that facilitates good grip when cutting.
- Latin Machete
It is a multi-purpose machete because of its slim shape. It also has a long handle to keep it balanced.
- Survival Machete
The survival Machete can be used for cutting, splitting wood, and security purposes. It is also best for camping and hiking.
- Weighted/ heavy Machete
This machete is wide towards the front of the blade. It can be used to clear woody vegetation.
- Parang Machete
It is known as the Golok and has a curved spine and an edged- blade. It is suitable for cutting woody vegetation.
- Tactical Machete
The tactical Machete is used for self-defense during the war. It can also be used for slashing vines and forests. You can also use it during camping and hiking.
More: Common Farm Tools and their Uses
Tips for using & handling a machete
Before using a machete it is important that for all the tips that will help you use it effectively.
Inspect the area
Your working area should be conducive to the use of a machete. It should be easy to swing your hand while working. Ensure that you do not damage anything in the working area like pets or children.
Holding a Machete
It is advisable that you focus on safety measures and find the right grip for good use of the machete. A wrong grip can make you get blisters or lose a toe. Here is what you need to do when holding a machete;
- When holding a machete tightly, your thumb should curl and other fingers on the opposite side.
- Your other fingers should be loose and not too tight.
- Ensure that the machete handle is flexible and wiggling in your palm.
Swinging a machete
For effective use of machetes, you need to learn how to swing them as you work on your area. Here is what you need to do when swinging a machete;
- Raise your arm and swing the machete in a downward direction
- Machete gravity and weight will pull it down while you raise it before swinging.
Contact angle
The angle of the machete when working on your area will determine how efficiently you use a machete. Ensure that you are on an angle that does not make you tired quickly.
Machete Carrying
This is a trick that not everyone will tell you. Carrying a machete wrongly can be dangerous. It is important that you always put it in a sheath when carrying it to ensure safety.
Safety Tips
You should protect yourself from any damage or injury from a machete by following these safety tips.
They include;
- Always use gloves to avoid getting blisters
- You should not use a machete on wet hands to avoid slipping off.
- Always use a machete when energetic and not when tired.
- Ensure that you have a good grip for smooth cutting.
- You should never swing the machete towards you.
- Always swing the machete towards your shoulders to create momentum.
- Always carry the lanyard when carrying a machete.
- Ensure that you clear out your working area before using your tool.
- Always stay in a particular place when cutting something.
Learning how to use a machete in the right way is the best thing to do. Most importantly, the safety measures that you should follow for effective cutting. With the above types and uses of machetes, it is possible to identify the best machete for your purpose.
