I have one of the longer length Cold Steel kukri style Perang machetes. I took a file to it, and then a couple stones. It'll shave hair and is rugged with a good handle and acceptable sheath. I have used it to cut bamboo poles successfully. It also has a good carving edge close to the handle and a good slicing section near the tip. I like the weight-forward aspect of the kukri design. Helps put power in your stroke, I think. Roger on using gloves when sharpening it with a file....a verrrrrry good idea.