The meaning and origin of the machete

Knives are out! It's time to give more credit to the ultimate outdoor tool: the machete. And no, we're not talking about the infamous silver screen anti-hero —although he did indeed own one. We're referring to an instrument so powerful it can cut, slice, or scrape just about anything that crosses its path.

Now, don't go ahead and type "machete meaning" into your favorite search engine just yet. We've done the heavy lifting for you. Below, you'll find everything you need to know about a revolutionary utensil that stands above the rest!

What is a machete?

A machete is a popular cutting tool used in farming, camping, landscaping, and other widespread outdoor activities. There are as many types of machetes as there are reasons to use them. The main feature that distinguishes machetes from other tools is their wide, sharp blade. However, their shapes and sizes vary.

The word "machete" is a variation of the Spanish term "macho," which means mace. If that's not cool enough, it's also synonymous with masculine and tough. So, there's no denying that the machete has always been considered a tool of power and prestige.

How to use a machete?

Wielding a machete isn't rocket science. It doesn't require brute force, but it does require some skill. Even when using one for the most mundane tasks, you need to be careful and aware of your surroundings. The blade is large enough to wreak havoc if you're not careful. To use a machete safely, you need to:

• Never swing it over your torso and limbs
• Carry it in a high quality machete sheath
• Use a pinch grip for a more flexible and natural range of motion
• Maintain a 45-degree typing angle
• Always make sure your machete is sharp enough

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Follow these tips to protect yourself from a dangerous or fatal accident.

Why were machetes invented?

Although it's difficult to determine who first created them, machetes evolved alongside humanity. Cavemen created machete-like weapons for self-defense and hunting. Fast-forward to the earliest settlements, and the machete played a major role in agriculture, warfare, and even construction.

The truth is that this formidable instrument has helped many civilizations thrive throughout the ages. Here are some examples of machete enthusiasts throughout history:

• The Greeks created the kopis
• The Germanic tribes invented the Seax
• ‌Malaysian invented parang
• The Chinese had the dao – also known as “the general of all weapons”
• The Nepalese provided the kukri to their soldiers
• The Spanish armies had the fascination
• The Japanese developed the katana

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Today, machetes are still useful for many purposes. Some people use them daily at work or while practicing their favorite hobbies. Having a machete is useful for gardening, camping, hiking, foraging, and skinning. Some intrepid people even use theirs for shaving!