Thoughts on machete size?

[jackman2]

I am in the market for my first machete and have been very intrigued with the Fiddleback line. There are some questions I have about which model would suit me the best. I am an avid fisherman and very often find myself trekking off into the middle of nowhere seeking out bodies of water. Recently I found an amazing spot. However it is literally surrounded by an impenetrable wall of vines, brush and prickers. Hence the need for a machete.

I am looking for a small sized machete that can easily be strapped to my backpack and my search brought me to the 12", which initially looked to be exactly what I want. Although, I am not sure if I should go with the 12 or 14. I am NOT looking for a chopper, but rather something that would easily chop through vines and greenery. An inch thick would probably be the thickest I would cut through. I love the size of the 12, but have read that it is thicker and more of a chopper than the other models.

Would the 14 be more in line with what I need? Or is the 12 just as good with the small green stuff? I prefer the smaller size, but would go slightly bigger if it suited my needs. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Fiddleback]

I think you're looking for the 14. Its thinner blade and extra two inches distinguish it with grasses and vines.

 

[jackman2]

I love the size of the 12, but I think you are right, 14 is for me. Any idea on when these would be available?

 

[Ridge-Runner]

Andys got some 12s and 18s up on his sight now. If you are going to strap it to your pack I dont think that the 18 would be too much. Plus it would give you more tip end swing speed to clear large swaths with each swing. BUt I dont know which pack you wear and such details. But I know you cant go wrong waiting on the one you want. But if you are going to be going after grasses and such I think the 18 would be the one I would go after but I aint really knowledgable on machete myself just giving my opinon.

 

[Fiddleback]

The 14's and 16's will be next batch, then just maintaining stock.

 

[jackman2]

Haha. Awesome. I love asking a question and getting an answer from the guy who makes them. Great stuff. I was on the fence about the price of these. But I think I'm going to get a 14. Seems like a very cool blade. this will pair well with what I've got. This, the f1 and my gb mini will be all I need.

 

[Ridge-Runner]

Haha. . But I think I'm going to get a 14. Seems like a very cool blade. this will pair well with what I've got. This, the f1 and my gb mini will be all I need.

If we all that hang out on this sub forum had a nickel for everytime we heard that. Good luck, if you buy one more than likely you will be purchasing another! Just ask anyone that owns a Fiddleback, I just about bet that they dont own just one, if they do they are looking for another.

 

[Stratmeister]

I find my 16 a great compromise, and easy to carry strapped to my small pack. I love my 12 and use it a lot, but the 16 gets the nod for jungle-type foliage clearing in the Glades...

 

[wildmanh]

14" Is my go to size for a machete. Right now it's a 14" Bolo by Tramontina. But one of these days I hope to get a 14" from Andy.

If you are looking for a leather machete sheath that you can wear on your belt or mount on your pack, Let me know.