Best Kukri or machette ?

[Pappabear]

I have some top end knives, now I'm looking for something a little larger. I have not seen much high end stuff in this category. I bought a SOG on sale for $20 and trashed the blade on an elk hunt clearing trees for a a clean shot downhill. It seemed like a decent knife but the steel didn't hold up.

I have checked out the Ka-bar and Ontario online, but have not felt or handled them. Any feedback appreciated.

PB

[Kain]

I have an old RTAK from Ontario. Not quite what I would call a machete, more a short sword, what with the 10 inch blade. But handy, and can spot as a machete, and has held up, and is oddly one of the sharper blades that I have. My only gripe with the RTAK is the smoothish grips, but I think the current gen RTAK II has textured g10 grips or something like that. Really should look to see if I can buy the grips separate.

Personal opinion, Ontario knives are better quality compared to most current K bar offerings I have handled. Personal opinion there before someone gets pissed, but I just have not been impressed with the K bars that I have played with in the past several years.

[soulezoo]

one place to look:

http://www.khukurihouseonline.com/

[Watrdawg]

Are you looking for a tool to perform chopping and camping/hunting chores? The reason I ask is that you mentioned trashing the SOG on an Elk hunt. If that is the main purpose then I really love my Woodsman's Pal. It stays in my truck permanently! I'm in the woods a lot and couldn't see not bringing it when any type of clearing or chopping job is concerned.

[glocktogo]

It really depends on your price range and size/weight desired. I really like the ESSE stuff because it's sharp, durable and comfortable. Even the smaller models seem to baton wood well, while the larger models still allowing you to prepare tinder for a fire. They're neither Kukri nor machete, but excellent field companions nonetheless.

[T2C]

I use a corn knife with wood handle and 14" blade when in the field. I sharpen the point and leading edge for defensive purposes. I carry it in a scabbard on the right side of my backpack. It's ok for cutting reeds and small tree branches to build a shelter.

If I feel the need to cut limbs off a tree, I use a ring saw. It is easy to carry and works well.

It might be easier to carry a ring saw and skinning knife than a large knife or machete.

[daddyusmaximus]

one place to look:

http://www.khukurihouseonline.com/

I saw one on this site I like. Thanks. Anybody ever buy from them? Wondering what the quality of the steel is like.

[TXBK]

The ESEE Junglas is a pound and a half of 1095 awesomeness.

[T2C]

The ESEE Junglas is a pound and a half of 1095 awesomeness.

That shows promise. When my 1940's vintage corn knife gives up the ghost, I need to buy one of these.

[JaegerOne]

CONDOR is good stuff at a reasonable price. http://www.condortk.com/