I need help deciding on a chopping tool

I like saws. How old is your saw? Maybe it needs to be sharpened, or maybe you should consider a new one...like a Silky.

But if you have your heart set on a chopper and you want something that won't break the bank if you lose it, I second the Condor Kumunga
 
I also think a light-weight backpacking saw is gonna rip through wood much faster than chopping it and more safely as well. They're reportedly light (thinking Sawvivor here) and compact (fits in yer pack easily). Compliment that with nice, new ESEE 5 and you're GTG!!!
 
An axe strapped to the side of a pack or inside really goes unnoticed and doesn't weigh much.
GB Small Forest Axe or Scandinavian Forest Axe are both excellent choppers. Even us "old folks" can swing them without throwing a hip out! Makes short work of things without excess weight.

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Pair it with a belt knife or SAK and your set.
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Or the GB Mini Belt hatchet or GB Wildlife hatchet and a SAK? That's a perfectly capable setup.
 
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a smallish Wetterlings (or similar) Camp Axe sounds like a good tool for these kinds of duties.
 
I love Esee but would recommend looking at Condor's stuff for a dedicated chopper as well. Good quality and good prices. I carry an Esee 4 on most of my hikes on my belt and sometimes pair it with a Condor Inca Knife. A million choices and a 4" blade will do if needed, but would add at least a 10" blade, too. Maybe at least a hawk head. May be able to fit a handle out of a branch
 
I fall into a vote for the Silky fixed saw and 19" small axe/hatchet. I use the Wetterlings and a GB- I do have a shorter Fiskars and love that little hatchet. Distribution of community gear is likely already in force and helps quite a bit.
2Door

I would add that I am anxiously awaiting availability of Fiddleback's shorter machetes. Something in a 14" maybe.
 
Strap your machete to your pack. Or strap an axe or larger saw to your pack.
 
mollyhatchet - you bring up a good point that I had not thought of. The silica in the wood will affect the tools.
 
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