I think I want a Golok--need options

mmcc100

mmcc100

Joined
Mar 19, 2010
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783
Been wanting a good light, yet heavy/thick enough machete type chopper. I have always been an axe guy, but want to try something a little different.

I want something with a rounded or straight end to go on the side of my pack. Around 13-18 inch blade. I have also considered a Kukri, but that's a different thread.

So far I have looked at Bark River and the Lionsteel Golok. I have also heard good things about the Condor. Any custom makers? I want thick (enough), but light and good quality. Money is always an issue, but want to see anything. I can always come up with the money if it's exactly what I want. Feel free to give me your opinions of what you have owned.

Thanks for your help!
 
I like the Condor myself, but I'm a bit biased. :D It's also inexpensive, so it's easu to see if you like the style.
 
I have the Condor Golok and it is going to be used for light chopping mostly. Yes, I could use a machete for this too, but I like this better because of the length and the handle. The handle is very comfortable. Every machete I have tried just causes blisters very quickly without gloves. It is not very expensive, if you made a mistake, it wouldn't be the end of the world. I would buy the sheath which is very high quality. But you might want to try it out first. They are sold separately.
 
If you buy a golok, accept the thickness that it comes in. The ideal weight, thickness & balance have already been perfected over hundreds of years of usage. The idea that a thicker blade=better, is a relatively new phenomena that is not based in real-world usage.

I really like the Bark River, but also have 2 real ones from Indonesia. They all pretty-much work great as long as they've been properly heat-treated for reasonable edge-retention. I wouldn't have any problems with Condor just based-on their reputation.

Your decision may come down to cosmetics and price.
 
I have the Bark River, Condor, Valiant, and a few others. Condor is the way to go. Best Chop for the buck, for sure.
 
I'd get the Condor Golok first to see if you like it, first. Then, I'd look at a custom from one of the makers that makes them here on the forums :)
 
The Condor golok gets lots of praise for sure. I need to try one my self. But I have the Martindale Golok #2 and have really been pleased with it. Compact and easy to pack but pretty hefty.

yhst-29358752693524_2137_1431762
 
haven't tries the martindale, have tried the Condor - and liked it!
great bang for the buck entry into that style of blade.
 
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