Gear Review: Gerber Gator Machete

Value Rating: 8 Durability Rating: 5 (careful what you cut) Overall Rating: 7 Location of Test: San Juan Island WA; Scappoose Bay OR Duration: Months and 1 day Product Name: Gator Machete Product Brand: Gerber Best Use: Hacking away at saplings and ghouls Sizes Available/ Specs: 18 inches and 18 ounces of slicing and sawing The Full Review Who needs a machete? Everyone. From hacking away at evil blackberries, to showing off a sweet party trick with a watermelon, the classic Gator Machete is your right hand sharp tool of choice when a mere knife cannot do the trick. Lot's of value in this relatively affordable package, without sacrificing too much. When kept nice and sharp, the Gator Machete will slice and dice through most moderately size plants and stuff, and the saw on the back is handy for quick cuts, but don't rely on it for major saw jobs unless it's your only option. I had an issue with the steel on my particular machete when I decided to take on a previously water logged cottonwood branch, but Gerber's incredible warranty took care faster than you can slice two watermelons in half (why stop at one?). Be wary of what you're cutting, and recognize that this is a $28 machete, not army issued steel. The Good: Affordable, ferocious, produced by a local Portland Company. The Bad: Steel chipped and folded when I tried to tackle a rougher job. Saw blade is clever, but a little tricky to get enough leverage without cutting your hand. The Bottom Line: Solid $28 machete. If you need something bombproof, spend a few more dollars.