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A Basic Guide to Buying and Maintaining a Machete
Buying
When choosing a machete the most important thing is that it is FULL TANG, this means that the handle is rivited straight to the blade preventing breakage whereas half tang means the handle is connected at the end of the blade therefor making it much weaker.
The next thing to consider is the length and shape, most people go for the usual 15"-19" straight blade (see-below,left) althought if you plan on using it for bushcraft or trailclearing e.t.c. then you might want to go for a 22" or even a 26" curved blade (see-below,right) as the length gives it more of a swing and the curve gives it a good hook.
19" straight =>
<= 22" curved
There are many different shapes and sizes of machete so take your time and make sure you choose the right one for you.
Maintaining
For optimum performance and sharpness you should sharpen the blade after each use although if you don't it will still stay very sharp with semi-regular sharpening. I have found that Carborundum Stone (see-below,left) is very good althought most sharpening (see-below,right) stones do fine, when you buy your stone make sure you at least get a MEDIUM GRIT and a FINE GRIT althought if you want a razor sharp edge use EXTRA FINE GRIT aswell.
Carborundum sharpening stone =>
<= Arkansas sharpening stone
When sharpening you blade make sure to put oil or water on the stone as this gives it a smooth layer to glide over increasing the effectiveness. Use a steady rub along the blade at a 45 degree angle using addaquet pressure, it doesn't take long to get a natural feel for it.
I hope this guide has been helpful to you and good luck.
Written and Illistrated by James Mann.
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