Machete Modifications for the Bush

**Pict** · 06-26-2008, 11:05 AM

I have a few modifications I do to my machete blades to make them easier to work with in the bush. These simple mods will help you get the most out of your machete. In the video I used a standard 12 inch Ontario because that is the blade I use most in the US and I feel it is more appropriate to the bulk of people watching. I have also done these same mods on Tramontinas.

Machete Modifications for the Bush

Mac

**Rick** · 06-26-2008, 11:20 AM

Mac, that is one of the most informative vids I've ever seen. Pretty ingenious modifications. The down side is now I have some work to do on my machete.

Really a nice post!! One of the better ones on the net.

**crashdive123** · 06-26-2008, 11:49 AM

Mac - Another great video - Thanks.

**Ole WV Coot** · 06-26-2008, 01:08 PM

Mac great video and I have used the convex and Scandinavian grinds on my Ontario also. I never thought about the back of the blade like a cabinet scraper. Have you seen any natives sharpen theirs by using a slight bend to the blade and using the side of the file to scrape and remove metal? It gives a very sharp but mostly a blade with few uses.

**Pict** · 06-26-2008, 01:14 PM

Coot,

I have seen natives here use anything, and I mean cement slabs anything, to sharpen all manner of tools. It makes me ill to watch. I haven't seen that technique. If you're just clearing brush you can get away with just about any sharp edge on a machete, brute force makes up for any lack of finesse. Its in that category of working harder not smarter. Mac

**bulrush** · 06-26-2008, 03:02 PM

Good idea to put a file in a different pocket with your machete.

**bladefrenzy** · 06-26-2008, 06:57 PM

Great video, we seem to be on the same page. I use both an old Military issue True Temper and a heavier Martindale machete in the bush. Both cut down to 12 in blades and convexed. I usually carry a scandi style knife so my big blades are fully convexed. I enjoy your other vids as well and would like to thank you for taking the time to do them.

**Rick** · 06-26-2008, 08:09 PM

Mac, what software are you using to edit your vids? Please don't tell me if you have to kill me or otherwise do bodily harm.

**Pict** · 06-26-2008, 09:07 PM

I just use Windows Movie Maker. There's alot there I haven't played with yet. Its just a matter of dragging the clips onto the timeline, and dragging the effects onto or between the clips. You can either shorten a clip by sliding the ends of it or split a clip in two and edit out parts in the middle.

I'm learning that if I'm talking and screw up just to pause and start over again, then go back and edit out the bloopers. I really enjoy the whole process. Mac

**Tactical Tom** · 06-26-2008, 09:38 PM

Thats a great idea ! I'm going to SMKW one day next week, I'm going to get myself a tram & ontario machete & who knows what else

**Tony uk** · 06-27-2008, 01:56 PM

Give that man a cigar, Great vid, I dont use a machete though *Cries*

**Pict** · 06-27-2008, 03:09 PM

Tony,

I guess Scotland isn't really machete territory is it. Real men do use machetes but since you're from Scotland you get a pass on that. Any culture that develops entire food groups around "stuff boiled in a stomach" is plenty man enough. I can say that as a fellow Scot. Mac