COLD STEEL TANTO MACHETE

The Cold Steel Tanto Machete is a compact fixed-blade machete designed for bushcraft, camp tasks, and vegetation cutting. Its 330 mm American Tanto-style blade is made from high-carbon steel and features a black anti-corrosive matte finish. The full tang construction, weather-resistant polypropylene handle, and included Cor-Ex sheath make it a durable tool for outdoor use.

Suitable for use in

• Cutting brush and tall vegetation

• Removing shoots and thinner branches

• Clearing overgrown trails

• Bushcraft and camp tasks

• Trimming garden edges and forest margins

• Cutting rope and thicker plant materials

• Use in tighter working conditions

• For users who prefer a compact machete

Why choose the Cold Steel Tanto Machete?

• Compact 330 mm blade

• Distinctive American Tanto blade shape

• High-carbon steel

• Black anti-corrosive matte finish

• 2.8 mm blade thickness

• Full tang construction extending through the handle

• Durable and weather-resistant polypropylene handle

• Practical 143 mm handle length

• Approximately 471 g weight

• Easier to handle in dense brush than a long machete

• Comes with a Cor-Ex sheath

Technical specifications

• Product type: Compact machete

• Construction: Fixed blade

• Blade shape: American Tanto

• Blade material: High-carbon steel

• Steel grade on European 97BTMZ product page: 1055

• Blade finish: Black anti-corrosive matte finish

• Blade length: 330 mm

• Blade thickness: 2.8 mm

• Handle length: 143 mm

• Handle material: Weather-resistant polypropylene

• Blade mounting: Full tang

• Overall length: Approximately 473 mm

• Weight: Approximately 471 g

• Sheath: Cor-Ex

• Folding: No

Included in the set

• Cold Steel Tanto Machete CS-97BTMS

• Cor-Ex sheath

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tanto Machete the same model as the Tactical Tanto Machete?

No. The Cold Steel Tanto Machete CS-97BTMS is a separate model with a 330 mm blade. The Tactical Tanto Machete belongs to the Tactical series, inspired by katana and wakizashi designs, and features a different handle and guard solution.

What steel does this model use?

The US CS-97BTMS product page lists the steel as 65Mn, while the European 97BTMZ product page lists 1055 carbon steel. Both are high-carbon steels. The specific steel used in the batch being sold should be confirmed from the product packaging or shipping documents.

Is the machete blade stainless?

No. The black finish helps protect the carbon steel blade from corrosion, but the exposed cutting edge and any damaged coating areas can rust when exposed to moisture. The blade should be cleaned, dried, and oiled as needed after use.

What does American Tanto blade shape mean?

The American Tanto blade has a clearly angular transition between the main cutting edge and the tip section. This gives the machete its distinctive profile and is suitable for various controlled cutting tasks outdoors.

What does full tang construction mean?

Full tang means the blade steel continues through the entire handle. This increases the strength and durability of the construction, but the machete should not be used as a pry bar, wedge, or hammer.

Is this machete suitable for chopping thick wood?

It is suitable for cutting brush, shoots, and thinner branches, but for working with thick or hard wood, an axe or saw should be used. The thin 2.8 mm blade is primarily intended for cutting, not for splitting or prying wood.

Is the sheath included?

Yes. The set includes a Cor-Ex sheath, which protects the blade during transport and storage. The blade should be cleaned and completely dried before placing it in the sheath.

How to sharpen the Tanto Machete?

Sharpen both sections of the cutting edge separately, following the existing sharpening angle and maintaining the characteristic angular transition of the Tanto blade. Avoid rounding the sharpening tool over the blade corner and rapid grinding, which can overheat the steel.

When is the Cold Steel Tanto Machete the right choice?

This model is suitable for users who want a cutting tool larger than a typical fixed-blade knife but more compact than a full-length machete. The 330 mm blade provides sufficient reach for removing brush and shoots, while the approximately 473 mm overall length makes the tool more manageable compared to longer machetes.

A longer-bladed Tactical Wakizashi or Tactical Katana may be a better choice for open areas where greater cutting reach is desired. A regular sturdy camp knife is more practical when the main tasks are precise carving, food preparation, and smaller cutting jobs.

Expert recommendation

Before starting work, check the blade, handle, and sheath, and ensure there is enough free space around the work area. Use safety glasses, sturdy gloves, and closed footwear. Also consider the rebound of the material being cut and the possible movement of loose branches.

After cutting wet or juicy vegetation, remove residue from the blade, dry the machete thoroughly, and apply a thin layer of protective oil to the exposed edge. Do not store a wet carbon steel blade in the sheath for long periods. Keep the tool in a dry and safe place and follow local regulations for carrying and transporting it.

Compact Tanto-blade machete for outdoor tasks

The Cold Steel Tanto Machete combines a 330 mm American Tanto blade, durable full tang construction, and a weather-resistant polypropylene handle. It is a practical choice for cutting brush, shoots, and other vegetation in situations where a long machete would be inconvenient.