I am amused how traditional tools get 'improved' by western makers at 10 times the price and perform miserably. Martindale in the UK makes a very nice machete in some interesting patterns, many of which have been reviewed exaustively on several knife and outdoor websites. David Cutsforth in Tillamook Oregon is a favoured dealer ( search for cutsforth knives and he will pop up.) My favourite are TRAMONTINAs from Brazil. Machetes should have plenty of reach and a light flexible blade. All will require some sharpening, but on a machete and it's use this is to easy. The metal will readilly roll, dent and get dull. It just as readily responds to steeling and resharpening. Parangs from Southeast Asia are a similar tool. There is an australian company selling many styles, but at a premium due to the artistic work. I use the classic long cutlass version seen in countless B movies.