Cold Steel Kukri Machete 97KMS 13" Black — 1055 Carbon Steel, Compact Heavy-Chopping Blade

The Cold Steel 97KMS Kukri Machete is a compact, heavy-chopping kukri with a 13-inch 1055 carbon steel blade and a durable polypropylene handle, built as an affordable workhorse for camping and bushcraft.

Designed to deliver the chopping power of a full-sized kukri in a lighter, more affordable package, the 97KMS balances cutting performance, corrosion resistance, and carrying convenience. It’s engineered for outdoor tasks where a robust edge and easy transportability matter—think splitting kindling, clearing trails, and general camp preparation. The knife’s black baked-on finish and full-tang construction focus on longevity, while the included Cor-Ex sheath keeps the blade secure when not in use.

How does this kukri perform for chopping and cutting tasks?

Thanks to its curved blade geometry and 1055 carbon steel construction, the kukri concentrates force toward the cutting edge, making chopping and slicing efficient with fewer swings. The blade thickness and full tang give it the mass and strength expected from a reliable field machete without being overly heavy.

• 13-inch blade optimized for chopping and batoning
• 1055 carbon steel for toughness and edge retention under hard use
• 2.8 mm blade thickness balances strength and controllable swing weight

What materials and construction keep the tool durable and safe?

The blade is heat-treated 1055 carbon steel finished with a black baked-on coating to slow surface rust and reduce glare. The handle fully encapsulates the tang in textured polypropylene for secure handling in wet or dirty conditions, and the included Cor-Ex sheath offers low-maintenance protection and easy carry.

• Full-tang blade for structural integrity and impact resistance
• Black baked-on finish for added corrosion resistance
• Ergonomic polypropylene handle that improves grip and comfort
• Durable Cor-Ex sheath for safe transport and storage

How portable is the Cold Steel 97KMS for outdoor use?

At about 16 ounces and with a 5-inch handle, this kukri is light enough to carry on a belt or attach to a pack, yet heavy enough to perform demanding cutting jobs. Its compact footprint makes it a practical choice when you need a powerful tool but want to avoid the bulk of a full-length machete.

• Total balance between chopping force and manageable weight (approx. 16 oz)
• Compact dimensions suitable for belt carry or pack lashing
• Handle design supports extended use without quick hand fatigue

What are the key specifications I should know before buying?

Knowing the dimensions and materials helps match the 97KMS to your tasks. This model’s 13-inch blade, 5-inch handle, and 2.8 mm thickness make it an all-around work tool, not just a display piece—suitable for practical outdoor chores rather than precision slicing tasks.

• Blade length: 13 inches; handle length: 5 inches
• Blade steel: 1055 carbon steel with black matte finish
• Blade thickness: 2.8 mm; weight: approximately 16 ounces
• Includes Cor-Ex sheath for secure carry

Who is this for? The Cold Steel 97KMS Kukri Machete is aimed at outdoorspeople, campers, and working hands who want a dependable chopping tool that won’t break the bank. It’s well suited for hikers who need a compact yet powerful blade, backyard gardeners clearing brush, and anyone who prefers a rugged, full-tang design with low-maintenance materials. If you need a value-focused kukri that emphasizes chopping capability and practical portability, this model is built for the job.