Let’s Dive into Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete
The Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete is a no-nonsense tool designed for those who need serious chopping power without breaking the bank. Manufactured by Cold Steel, this machete promises durability and functionality with its 21.5-inch blade and robust polypropylene handle. I’ve spent years in the field, from clearing trails to building shelters, and a reliable chopper is essential.
I was on the hunt for a machete that could handle thick brush and small trees without costing a fortune. My old machete, a vintage military surplus model, was simply too worn down to rely on anymore. The Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete seemed like a worthy successor.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the weight; it felt substantial without being unwieldy. The black baked-on anti-rust finish gave it a tactical look, and the polypropylene handle felt surprisingly comfortable. The included Cor-Ex sheath was a welcome addition, providing a safe way to carry it.
Compared to a Gerber Gator Machete and an Ontario Knife Company 12-inch Machete, the Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete offered a different balance of features. The Gerber had a more ergonomic grip but felt less durable. The Ontario was a classic workhorse but lacked the refined edge geometry of the Cold Steel.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. It looked and felt like a serious tool, but the proof would be in its performance. At $49.99, it was a gamble I was willing to take.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete during a weekend clearing a neglected section of my property bordering a dense wooded area. The area was overgrown with blackberry bushes, saplings, and thick vines, a perfect proving ground. The weather was humid and slightly drizzly, presenting a typical challenge for maintaining a good grip.
The machete performed admirably, slicing through the blackberry bushes with relative ease. The reverse tanto blade shape concentrated chopping power effectively on thicker branches and small saplings. I did find myself adjusting my grip occasionally due to the polypropylene handle becoming slightly slick in the wet conditions.
Initially, I was impressed with how little effort it took to make clean cuts. However, I noticed a small amount of edge deformation after about an hour of continuous use. The edge rolled slightly when impacting harder, seasoned wood.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete for various tasks, including clearing hiking trails and processing firewood, I have a better sense of its long-term performance. It has held up reasonably well, but some limitations have become apparent. The blade’s edge requires frequent touch-ups to maintain optimal sharpness.
Signs of wear and tear are noticeable, mainly in the form of minor scratches on the blade’s coating and slight loosening of the handle’s grip. Despite these minor issues, the machete remains structurally sound.
Maintenance involves wiping the blade clean and applying a thin coat of oil after each use to prevent rust. Sharpening the blade is relatively straightforward with a file and honing stone, though it requires some patience to restore the original edge. Compared to my previous machetes, the Cold Steel requires more frequent sharpening but offers a better balance and chopping power.
Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete
Specifications
The Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete boasts a 21.5-inch blade made from 1055 Carbon Steel. This type of steel is known for its toughness and ability to hold an edge, although it’s more prone to rust than stainless steel. The overall length is 30.5 inches, providing ample leverage for chopping.
The blade features a reverse tanto shape, designed to concentrate force at the point of impact for efficient cutting. The handle is constructed from polypropylene, a durable and weather-resistant plastic. The total weight is 36.2 ounces, striking a balance between heft and maneuverability.
The machete comes with a Cor-Ex sheath for safe storage and transport. The blade thickness is 2.8 mm, providing sufficient strength for demanding tasks. The black baked-on anti-rust matte finish protects the blade from corrosion.
These specifications translate to a tool that is well-suited for heavy-duty cutting and chopping tasks in outdoor environments. The carbon steel blade offers excellent edge retention, while the polypropylene handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The Cor-Ex sheath ensures safe carry and storage, making it a practical choice for various applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete performs its primary function, chopping, reasonably well. It slices through vegetation and small branches efficiently, though it struggles with thicker, seasoned wood without significant effort. The reverse tanto blade helps to focus impact force.
The machete’s main strength lies in its balance and cutting power for its price point. A notable weakness is its edge retention, which necessitates frequent sharpening during heavy use. It mostly meets expectations, though a slightly harder steel would improve its overall performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete is adequate for its price range. The polypropylene handle is durable and provides a comfortable grip, though it can become slippery when wet. The weight distribution is well-balanced, making it easy to swing and control.
The machete is relatively user-friendly, though beginners might require some practice to master its swing and cutting technique. There’s a slight learning curve. Overall, it’s designed for practical use and ease of handling.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete should last for several years of moderate to heavy use. Regular cleaning and oiling of the blade are crucial to prevent rust. The polypropylene handle is resistant to most forms of damage, though it can crack under extreme impact.
Maintaining and repairing the Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete is straightforward. Sharpening can be done with basic tools, and the handle can be replaced if needed, though it would likely involve some modification. Its simple construction contributes to its overall longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete comes standard with a Cor-Ex sheath. There are limited customization options available directly from Cold Steel. However, users can modify the handle with aftermarket grips or paracord wraps for improved comfort and grip.
The machete is compatible with standard sharpening tools and blade maintenance products. Aftermarket sheaths can be used if the original Cor-Ex sheath wears out or if a different carry style is preferred. While not designed for extensive customization, it offers enough flexibility for users to personalize it to their preferences.
Pros and Cons of Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete
Pros
- Excellent chopping power for its price point thanks to the reverse tanto blade.
- Durable and weather-resistant polypropylene handle provides a secure grip.
- Included Cor-Ex sheath offers safe storage and transport.
- Relatively lightweight and well-balanced, making it easy to swing and control.
- Easy to maintain and sharpen with basic tools.
Cons
- 1055 Carbon Steel blade is prone to rust and requires frequent oiling.
- Edge retention is not the best; needs regular sharpening during heavy use.
- Polypropylene handle can become slippery when wet.
Who Should Buy Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete?
The Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete is perfect for outdoorsmen, campers, survivalists, and property owners who need a reliable tool for clearing brush and chopping wood. It’s also suitable for those looking for an affordable and effective machete for general outdoor tasks. This product is great for trail maintenance and creating kindling at the camp site.
Those who should skip this product include individuals requiring a machete for delicate tasks or those who prioritize corrosion resistance over chopping power. Those looking for a high-end, stainless steel machete with superior edge retention should look elsewhere. This is a budget-friendly chopper, not a precision tool.
Must-have accessories or modifications include a quality sharpening file, honing stone, and potentially a paracord wrap for the handle to improve grip in wet conditions. Regular maintenance supplies, like oil, are also critical.
Conclusion on Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete
The Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete is a solid, budget-friendly option for anyone needing a capable chopping tool. While it’s not perfect, its combination of power, durability, and affordability makes it a worthwhile investment. The 21.5-inch blade coupled with a polypropylene handle makes it a force to be reckoned with.
The price is definitely justified, considering its performance and build quality compared to other machetes in the same price range. You’re getting a lot of value for $49.99.
I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking a reliable and affordable machete for general outdoor use. Just be prepared to maintain the blade and consider wrapping the handle. If you’re looking for a no-frills, hard-working machete, the Cold Steel All Terrain Chopper Machete is a great choice. Go get chopping!