I'm curious about people's expectations for a machete. What do you expect to cut?
Given the geographical range in this forum, that's an important question. Apples and oranges etc. Different tools are suited to different jobs.
For me: I expect to cut woody-stemmed material -- light hardwoods like poplar/willow, or softwoods like pine/spruce. Not a lot of tall grass or vines/canes around here. For my tasks, I need a blade with some real mass and stiffness, and the ability to hold an edge like a good hatchet.
How about you?