Machete???

[gdeno]

I am not sure if this is the approriate place for this but I'll ask it anyway. I am looking for a good machete and am currently looking at the Cold Steel Latin Machete and the Ontario Latin 18" Machete. They look very similar and I am wanting some input on either one or both. I am also wandering if I should just save up the money and get the esee lite machete. The only problem I have with the esee is that it seems like they are selling the other two's blades with expensive micarta handles. Any input would help, also if you know of a better place to post this let me know, thanks.

 

[Wolf_1989]

I'm partial to Tramontina. I have their African Panga style machete and it's served me well since 1988.

 

[PayetteRucker]

Trams are quality but definately lighter, and be prepared to put the edge on yourself. I think Condor El Salvador takes the cake when it comes to quality for the money, and would be my choice out of the traditional cutlass style machetes, but the Ontarios aren't bad either. I have no experience with the Cold Steels but I'm told the overmolded handles have some issues.
PS, the ESEE light machete is exactly that- an Imacasa/Condor (same company) blade with micarta handles.