Going back to the original question of good to great machetes...
I worked in Brasil for a few years and saw lots of Tramontina machetes that had been put through more than I would ever subject a cutting tool to... I used one myself and brought one home with me (checked bag, not carry on!). I took the plastic scales off and fitted a wood handle that was more comfortable for my hand. That was probably the best $10 I ever spent on a tool! I should live so long to wear it out....
I worked in Brasil for a few years and saw lots of Tramontina machetes that had been put through more than I would ever subject a cutting tool to... I used one myself and brought one home with me (checked bag, not carry on!). I took the plastic scales off and fitted a wood handle that was more comfortable for my hand. That was probably the best $10 I ever spent on a tool! I should live so long to wear it out....