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Machetes & Bush Knives · Gerber Gator series · USA

Machetes & Bush Knives
Six Gerber models for bushcraft, garden & survival

Gator series with 1055 and 1095 carbon steel, the Compact Clearpath and the Versafix Pro Hybrid – six machetes for every use case, with rubberised Gator-Grip and Lifetime Warranty. Shipped from our Swiss warehouse, with personal advice from a Swiss outdoor shop.

Gator series

Bolo, Bush, Junior and 2-in-1 with the legendary Gator-Grip

1055 & 1095 carbon steel

Bolo: 1055, Bush: 1095 Full Tang – robust and easy to resharpen

2-in-1 blade & saw

Combined on three models: blade on one side, saw on the other

Lifetime Warranty

Lifetime Gerber warranty on all models

At a glance
  • Focus on Gerber Gear – six machetes from the compact Versafix to the large 2-in-1 with saw blade
  • Three classes: Gator series (Bolo, Bush, Junior, 2-in-1), Compact Clearpath and Versafix Pro Hybrid
  • Blade material: 1055 carbon steel on the Bolo, 1095 high-carbon on the Bush, coated blades on the others
  • Blade lengths from 22.9 cm (Versafix Pro) to 45.7 cm (Gator 2-in-1)
  • Three 2-in-1 models: blade on the front, saw on the back – Junior, Compact Clearpath, Gator 2-in-1
  • Versafix Pro with interchangeable blade: machete and knife in one tool
  • Signature Gator-Grip: rubberised polymer handle – secure even when wet
  • Delivered with MOLLE-compatible carry loop or nylon sheath
  • Freely available in Switzerland (fixed blade under Art. 4 of the Swiss weapons law, no special permission)
  • Lifetime Warranty on all Gerber tools
  • Price range CHF 46.90–74.90 – further brands in preparation
  • Swiss warehouse – free shipping over CHF 100, dispatch within 1–2 business days

Machetes & bush knives – the right tool for heavy cutting work

A machete is neither a knife nor an axe – it fills the gap in between. When the knife gets too small and the axe too heavy, the machete steps in: cutting through vegetation, felling small trees, splitting wood, clearing paths, or preparing material for the campfire. At Swiss-Sale.ch you’ll find six machetes from Gerber Gear that together cover the most important use cases – from compact camp companion to large bush machete for vegetation and wood. Further brands are in preparation.

Which machete for which use?

Machetes differ mainly by blade shape, length and weight. The right choice depends on what you plan to do. Here’s an overview of typical use cases and the matching recommendation from our range:

Bushcraft & wilderness camp

For bushcraft – building shelters, preparing firewood, carving larger pieces – you want a blade with weight in the front third or a combined blade-and-saw setup. The Gerber Gator Bolo Machete with 39.2 cm full-tang blade in 1055 carbon steel is ideal: the bolo shape is forward-weighted, generating high torque on the swing. If you want to combine cutting and sawing, the Gerber Gator Machete 2-in-1 (45.7 cm) is the right choice – blade on one side, saw on the other.

Garden, brush and vegetation

For cutting brambles, bamboo, dense undergrowth or reeds, you want a straight, long blade with even balance. The Gerber Gator Bush Machete delivers exactly that: 45.5 cm straight full-tang blade in 1095 high-carbon steel that cuts cleanly through vegetation with controlled swings, without binding. For garden owners or anyone maintaining their own grounds, this is the first choice.

Survival, emergency, backcountry

When the machete is part of your survival kit, it’s about versatility at minimum weight. Depending on your priorities, you can choose between Gator Junior (27.3 cm 2-in-1 with saw), Compact Clearpath (28 cm 2-in-1) or the Versafix Pro Hybrid (22.9 cm stainless steel with interchangeable blade). All three are pack-friendly, robust and suitable for emergency tasks – from preparing firewood to building structures from natural materials.

Camping, campfire, day trip

For weekend camp or day trip, a compact solution is often enough – here the Gator Junior and the Compact Clearpath are ideal. Both combine machete blade and saw on a small footprint, fit on the pack, and handle wood and vegetation work at camp without issue. The Versafix Pro is the special variant for those who additionally want a swappable knife setup.

Our recommendation: If you’re looking for a versatile camp machete, go for the Gator Machete 2-in-1 (45.7 cm blade + saw). For pure garden work, the Gator Bush (1095 high-carbon) is the right choice; for heavy bushcraft, the Gator Bolo (1055 full tang). For compact pack carry, the Junior or Compact Clearpath.

The six models in detail

Gerber Gator Machete 2-in-1 (45.7 cm)

The bestseller. Machete blade on one side, saw blade on the other – two tools in one. With 45.7 cm blade length, it’s the largest model in our range. Ideal as an all-rounder for bushcraft and camp when you don’t want to carry two separate tools.

Gerber Gator Bush Machete · 1095 carbon steel Full Tang (45.5 cm)

The classic shape: 45.5 cm straight blade in 1095 high-carbon steel, full-tang construction – meaning the steel runs as one piece through the entire handle. Maximum stability, minimum break risk. The balanced blade is ideal for cutting vegetation, brambles, reeds and small undergrowth. With Gator-Grip and nylon sheath.

Gerber Gator Bolo Machete · 1055 carbon steel Full Tang (39.2 cm)

The bolo blade shape originated in the Philippines and combines a wide, forward-thickened blade with a straight grind. On the swing, the weight shifts toward the tip, maximising impact. 39.2 cm blade length, full tang in 1055 carbon steel. Ideal for heavy cutting work and wood.

Gerber Gator Junior Machete · 2-in-1 (27.3 cm)

The compact Junior. Important: Junior refers to the size, not to an age group – all machetes are sharp tools for adults. With 27.3 cm blade length and 2-in-1 setup (blade on the front, saw on the back), a versatile companion for day trips and weekend camps.

Gerber Compact Clearpath Machete (28 cm)

The alternative to the Junior at comparable size: 28 cm blade length, also designed as a 2-in-1 with blade and saw. If you’re looking for a robust camp tool that fits in your pack and covers both functions, the Compact Clearpath is the price-attractive choice.

Gerber Versafix Pro · Machete-Knife Hybrid (22.9 cm)

The innovative solution in the range: 22.9 cm stainless steel blade with interchangeable system. You can switch between a machete blade and a knife blade depending on what you need. For users who prefer a modular tool setup over carrying multiple separate blades.

Understanding blade shapes – what sets bolo and bush apart

Machetes come in many blade shapes worldwide, each adapted to local vegetation and tradition. The most important:

Blade shapeCharacteristicsTypical useIn our range
BoloBellied blade, forward-thickened, with swing impactBushcraft, wood, heavy vegetationGerber Gator Bolo
Latin / BushStraight, evenly broad bladeGarden, brush, reeds, bambooGerber Gator Bush
2-in-1 with sawBlade on front, saw on the spineCamping, bushcraft, all-rounderGator 2-in-1, Junior, Compact Clearpath
Hybrid with swap bladeModular system, machete or knife bladeModular outdoor setupVersafix Pro
KukriForward-curved blade of Nepalese originWood, traditional chopping
Parang / GolokAsian shape with weighted balance pointJungle, dense vegetation

Model comparison at a glance

ModelBlade lengthBlade materialSpecial featurePrice
Gator Machete 2-in-145.7 cmCoated steelBlade + sawCHF 49.90
Gator Bush45.5 cm1095 carbon Full TangStraight blade, garden proCHF 74.90
Gator Bolo39.2 cm1055 carbon Full TangBellied blade, impact powerCHF 69.90
Gator Junior 2-in-127.3 cmCoated steelCompact, blade + sawCHF 46.90
Compact Clearpath28 cmCoated steelCompact, blade + sawCHF 46.90
Versafix Pro22.9 cmStainless steelInterchangeable bladeCHF 52.90

Are machetes legal in Switzerland?

Swiss weapons law Art. 4 WG
Machetes are freely available in Switzerland

Under Swiss weapons law, machetes count as fixed blades and therefore as tools – not as prohibited weapons. They are freely available, without special permission. Prohibited weapons are butterfly knives, gravity knives, switchblades with blades over 5 cm and throwing knives. For carrying in public, the same rule applies as for any large tool: a legitimate purpose (e.g. transport to the work site, carrying during outdoor activity). For specific cases and possible cantonal regulations, the Federal Office of Police website (fedpol.admin.ch) is authoritative.

Safe handling of your machete

Machetes are highly efficient cutting tools – and therefore potentially dangerous when used improperly. The most important safety rules:

  • Keep distance: at least 2 m safety distance from other people, animals and objects you don’t want to accidentally strike.
  • Stable stance: shoulder-width legs, firm ground, clear swing area. Never work on unstable ground or on a slope without solid footing.
  • Away from the body: always swing away from your body, never toward your leg. On downward strokes, make sure your body is not in the swing path.
  • Controlled strokes: better several controlled strokes than one full swing with uncertain landing point. This also protects the blade.
  • Transport in sheath: when switching tasks or transporting, always insert the machete back into the supplied nylon sheath.

Maintenance and care of your machete

A machete is durable but not maintenance-free – especially with carbon steel blades like the Bolo (1055) and the Bush (1095). Three care rules for decades of use:

  • Clean after use: remove plant sap, dirt and moisture after every use with a dry cloth. For heavy soiling, rinse with lukewarm water and dry immediately.
  • Oil regularly: apply a thin film of blade-care oil (or Ballistol) regularly – especially after contact with water or acidic plant sap.
  • Sharpen: machetes don’t need the razor-fine edge of a bushcraft knife but a robust working edge. Use a coarse file or sharpening stone at 200/400 grit to refresh the edge every few uses.

Carbon steel blades like the 1055 Bolo and 1095 Bush are robust and easy to resharpen – but more rust-prone than stainless steel. Dry storage and regular oiling are mandatory. The Versafix Pro with stainless steel blade is the easier-care alternative.

Recommendation overview – which machete fits you?

Use caseCharacteristicsRecommendation
All-round bushcraft & campingBlade + saw in one toolGator Machete 2-in-1
Garden, brambles, reeds, bambooLong straight blade, 1095 Full TangGator Bush
Heavy bushcraft, woodBellied blade with impact, 1055 Full TangGator Bolo
Camping, compact in packShort blade with sawGator Junior 2-in-1 or Compact Clearpath
Survival kit, modular setupInterchangeable blade: machete or knifeVersafix Pro Hybrid
First machete, versatile2-in-1 all-rounderGator Machete 2-in-1
Pure garden use SwitzerlandLong straight blade for cutsGator Bush
Stainless instead of carbon steelEasier care, corrosion-resistantVersafix Pro

Why machetes from Swiss-Sale.ch?

We deliberately stock a focused selection: six Gerber models that together cover typical Swiss use cases – from garden through bushcraft to survival. The selection is concise, but every model has a clear use case. Further brands are in preparation – the range will be expanded selectively over time.

  • 🇺🇸 Gerber Gear since 1939 – official US military supplier
  • 🪓 Six models covered: 2-in-1, Bush, Bolo, Junior, Compact Clearpath, Versafix Pro
  • 🛡️ Premium steels: 1055 carbon (Bolo), 1095 high-carbon (Bush) Full Tang
  • 👋 Signature Gator-Grip – secure even when wet
  • 🎒 MOLLE-compatible nylon sheath on all models
  • 🔧 Three 2-in-1 models with combined blade and saw
  • 🏅 Lifetime Warranty – lifetime Gerber warranty
  • 🇨🇭 Freely available in Switzerland (fixed blade under Art. 4 WG)
  • 🛒 Direct Swiss shop – no customs fees, no waiting
  • 📞 Real advice by phone, email or in our showroom in Menzingen
  • 📦 Shipping from Swiss warehouse – free over CHF 100

Browse the Gerber brand world with all machetes and other tools: Machetes by Gerber.


FAQ – common questions about machetes

Are machetes legal in Switzerland?

Yes. Under Swiss weapons law (Art. 4 WG), machetes are fixed blades and therefore tools – freely available, without special permission. Prohibited weapons are only butterfly knives, gravity knives, switchblades with blades over 5 cm and throwing knives – this does not apply to machetes. For carrying in public, a legitimate purpose is required as for any large tool. For specific cases and cantonal regulations, see fedpol.admin.ch.

Which machete is the most versatile?

The Gerber Gator Machete 2-in-1. It combines a 45.7 cm machete blade with a saw blade on the back – two tools in one. It covers both cutting and sawing tasks and is our bestseller. Often the right choice for first-time machete buyers.

Which machete is suited for bushcraft?

For heavy bushcraft we recommend the Gerber Gator Bolo Machete. With 39.2 cm full-tang blade in 1055 carbon steel, the weight is in the front third – this generates high swing torque, ideal for severing branches, splitting wood and preparing firewood. For combined cutting-sawing tasks at camp, the Gator Machete 2-in-1 is the right choice.

What is the difference between bolo and bush?

The bolo blade has a bellied, forward-thickened shape – this shifts the weight toward the tip and increases impact. Ideal for heavy cutting, wood and dense vegetation. The Gerber Bolo is 39.2 cm in 1055 carbon steel. The bush or Latin blade is evenly straight and balanced – this gives cleaner, more controlled cuts on vegetation. The Gerber Bush is 45.5 cm in 1095 high-carbon steel. Rule of thumb: bolo to chop, bush to slice.

Which machete for the garden?

For garden and vegetation work, the Gerber Gator Bush Machete is the first choice. The straight, 45.5 cm full-tang blade in 1095 high-carbon steel cuts cleanly through brambles, reeds, bamboo, dense brush and small undergrowth without binding. The balanced design enables longer work without fatigue.

What is the difference between 1055 and 1095 carbon steel?

The number indicates the carbon content: 1055 has 0.55 % carbon, 1095 has 0.95 %. Higher carbon means a harder blade with better edge retention but slightly more brittleness and rust-proneness. 1055 (Bolo) is robust and very easy to resharpen – ideal for heavy chopping work. 1095 (Bush) has longer cutting service life and is the classic choice for primary cutting tools. Both are full-tang – the steel runs as one piece through the handle.

What is a 2-in-1 machete?

A 2-in-1 machete combines two functions on one tool: a cutting blade on one side and a saw blade on the back. You can cut vegetation and saw wood without carrying two separate tools. In our range you’ll find this system on the Gator Machete 2-in-1 (45.7 cm), the Gator Junior (27.3 cm) and the Compact Clearpath (28 cm).

What is the Versafix Pro?

The Gerber Versafix Pro is a hybrid solution: 22.9 cm stainless steel blade with an interchangeable system. You can swap between a machete blade and a knife blade depending on the task. For outdoor users who prefer a modular setup over carrying multiple separate tools. Stainless steel is also easier to maintain than carbon steel – less rust risk.

Is the Gator Junior for children?

No. The label Junior refers exclusively to the compact size of the machete, not to an age group. All machetes – including the Junior – are sharp tools for adults and are not suitable as children’s items. We sell exclusively to people aged 18 and over.

How do I sharpen my machete?

Machetes don’t need the razor-fine edge of a kitchen knife but a robust working edge. Suitable are coarse files or sharpening stones at 200–400 grit. Hold the blade firmly, sharpen at an angle of approx. 25–30 degrees – evenly along the length, from heel to tip. 1055 and 1095 carbon steels like Bolo and Bush are easy to resharpen. Apply a thin oil film after sharpening.

How do I care for my machete?

Three rules: First, after every use remove plant sap and moisture with a dry cloth. For heavy soiling, rinse with lukewarm water and dry immediately. Second, regularly apply a thin film of blade-care oil – especially with carbon steel (1055/1095). Third, store dry in the nylon sheath, not in a damp basement. With proper care, a Gerber machete lasts decades.

What does the Gerber Lifetime Warranty cover?

The Lifetime Warranty covers material and workmanship defects for the entire lifetime of the tool. Normal wear and tear, improper use and modifications are excluded. In Switzerland, we handle the statutory two-year warranty period directly for you – beyond that, the Gerber manufacturer warranty applies, and we’re happy to assist with the handling.

Does Swiss-Sale.ch ship from Swiss stock?

Yes. All six machetes are available from our warehouse in Menzingen (ZG) – no waiting time, no customs fees. Free shipping within Switzerland and Liechtenstein on orders over CHF 100. Personal advice in our showroom or by phone on +41 41 755 34 33. If you’re not satisfied, our 30-day voluntary return right applies.

Machetes & bush knives – discover the range now at Swiss-Sale.ch

Six Gerber models from Swiss stock, Lifetime Warranty, further brands in preparation. Advice on +41 41 755 34 33 or info@swiss-sale.ch.

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