Cold Steel Tanto Machete - 13" 1055 Carbon Steel Blade, Polymer Handle, Black

The Cold Steel Tanto Machete brings a classic Japanese blade profile to serious brush clearing and camp work. This 13-inch machete pairs a 1055 carbon steel blade with a practical polymer handle, giving you a tool that's equally at home on the trail, in the field, or around the homestead. The tanto point—that distinctive angular tip—excels at piercing and chopping, making it more versatile than a straight-blade machete for detailed cutting tasks where a hunter or outdoorsman needs precision alongside power.

Cold Steel's approach here is straightforward: solid materials, honest design, no unnecessary flourishes. The 1055 carbon steel blade is robust enough for real work and can take and hold an edge when properly maintained. The black polymer handle won't rot, swell, or absorb water, so it stays reliable in wet conditions and requires minimal fuss. The matte finish resists glare and corrosion, keeping the blade functional whether you're in a humid environment or facing salty air on an expedition. At 15.63 inches overall, this tanto machete is compact enough to stow in a pack or lash to your camp setup without bulk, yet the 13-inch blade gives you plenty of cutting surface for the work that matters.

This is a machete for folks who view their tools as extensions of their competence—not collectibles. Whether you're cutting through thick brush on a hunting approach, preparing firewood at camp, or maintaining trails on your property, the tant-profile blade and carbon steel construction earn their weight. Cold Steel includes a sheath, so you're ready to go straight out of the box.

Key Features

• 13-inch 1055 carbon steel blade with tanto profile for pierce-and-chop versatility
• Black polymer handle—durable, water-resistant, low-maintenance
• Matte baked-on finish resists rust and corrosion
• 15.63-inch overall length balances reach with packability
• Includes sheath for secure carry and storage

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a tanto blade profile and when would I use it?

A tanto features an angular point and a slightly curved edge, combining the strength of a straight blade with the piercing capability of a pointed tip. This profile excels at both chopping and detailed cutting—useful for camp tasks, brush clearing, and precise work where a standard machete's rounded point would struggle.

Is the carbon steel blade difficult to maintain?

1055 carbon steel requires more care than stainless steel—it will rust if left wet or neglected. However, it also holds an edge longer and can be sharpened more easily. Regular wiping, occasional oiling, and basic attention keep it in solid working order. It's a fair trade for better performance.

Will the polymer handle hold up to heavy use?

Yes. Polypropylene handles won't rot, absorb water, or require the maintenance of wood or leather. They're durable in wet conditions and stand up to rough field use, making them ideal for serious work where reliability matters more than tradition.

What comes in the box?

The Cold Steel Tanto Machete includes a sheath, so you have everything needed to safely carry and store the blade right away.