So I think my tastes and needs have changed a bit since my original post and research. I think I'd like something a little bigger, that would do well clearing up some overgrown branches and bushes on existing trails, but also OK doing some smaller tasks. Does it exist? My thought was machete + mora, but I honestly think a machete is too big and don't want to carry around two tools. It makes me lean back towards the Condor PMB. Thoughts? What if I up the budget to $75
So what exactly are you wanting to do with this tool now?
In my experience, "chopping" is best done with knives with a blade length of >~8-9in. Anything smaller and they just don't have the tip speed or mass to really be worth the effort and weight (in my opinion).
I find that my BK9 does a comparatively good job of doing "knife tasks" (The small knife tasks I use it for are mostly feathersticks, and tent pegs), while still chopping pretty well. I'm not saying that it does those tasks as well as a smaller knife like a Mora, but its much more nimble than it has any right to be for a knife that size. It's not the ideal chopping tool (and IMO, neither is any blade in the 7-10in range), but it does well for what it is. Its out of your expanded price range though.
For similar size (non machete) blades, look at the Condor Kumunga, and the Skrama. You could go as small as the Condor Primitive Bush knife that you keep mentioning, and it will probably work fine, especially when you get used to how to use it. I just haven't had much success with chopping in that size, and yet they are still large enough to make you think about a smaller knife for many tasks, which is why I have a hard time recommending it.
Personally, I've found that many times I simply prefer to carry two more specialized tools, rather than a single "all arounder". It can cost, and weigh less. When you looked at machetes, I'm assuming you looked at the normal 18in latin pattern machetes? Maybe one of the smaller machetes might be more your style. But to be clear I still am of the opinion that both of those would pair better with a Mora or other smaller knife than by themself.
If you did that route, check out the svord kiwi machete. Its a 12in machete thats compact, and a bit thicker than your average machete. It sounds like it would work great for what you're looking to do. It runs around ~$50 IIRC.
The Kabar Grass machete is somewhat similar in concept being a bit of a hybrid between a machete, and a parang/golok/etc (though larger than the svord, with a 14in blade). It also runs around ~$50.
Good luck finding something that works for you
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