|
Post by mattjohn98 on Nov 1, 2021 0:22:25 GMT
Hey guys, so I wanted to ask this question that I haven't seen anyone else ask before.
Machetes and sickles are in a lot of ways very similar. Both are single edged, both are single handed tools, and both are used for clearing brush, and even in some cases for defensive purposes.
My question is, what is a better tool. And maybe even, what is a better weapon as well.
|
|
|
Post by leed on Nov 1, 2021 0:53:52 GMT
Most machete can handle thicker targets and also stab a bit. Sickles are great vs thinner grasses. As a gardener, they each have their uses. I have spear pointed machetes also.
|
|
|
Post by howler on Nov 1, 2021 0:57:11 GMT
Standard machete generally has a more versatile shape, though both sickle and machete can still vary a great amount to the point one needs specific models for comparison.
|
|
pgandy
Moderator
Senior Forumite
Posts: 10,296
|
Post by pgandy on Nov 1, 2021 1:36:54 GMT
I’ve had no experience with a sickle other than fanning air. I’m assuming you are referring to a one handed jobby as opposed to the two hand model for cutting such things as wheat and hay. I’ve watched Nepalese use a sickle for cutting fodder for their livestock and it seems to be their preferred tool for that use. They are down and take a handful of grass/brush by the top. Instead of a chopping cut they bring the sickle towards them and then throw the brush in a pile for collection.
A machete I’ve had experience with and believe that I’ll stick with the machete, if nothing else it’s more versatile. With a machete one can dig, shovel, open packages, and more. I’ve cut grass in both standing and setting positions. I used to cut my lawn with a machete. In that case I was setting and used a 14½” light machete with a 2-1mm distal taper and used horizontal swings. That machete gave no fatigue. Another method that is popular especially with taller grass is to stand, use a stick with a bend to catch and stand the grass and use a longer machete, perhaps 24-26”. I’ve watched Latinos cover much ground quickly that way. I’ve used that method to a limited degree, mostly because I have no need for it. Hands down I’d say a machete is not only more versatile but will make the better weapon. The biggest issue with a machete is to find a good one.
|
|
|
Post by pvsampson on Nov 1, 2021 4:57:43 GMT
I have used both and I no longer own a sickle but do own a few machetes.Overall machete is more useful in my opinion,just for the versatility.Used the Kukri plus this morning to remove some lantana,woody weeds and long grass.Handy for hacking and for grabbing handfuls of the grass then slicing through the base.If heavier work,like a day attacking lantana etc,a good latin or bolo would be my choice.Sickle just would not cut it,so to speak.
|
|
Scott
Member
Posts: 1,676
Member is Online
|
Post by Scott on Nov 8, 2021 0:33:57 GMT
Have you tried a billhook? I use one in the yard a lot. Heavier blade than a sickle and very versatile, better for thicker woody vegetation than a machete in my experience.
|
|