Woodman's Pal Leather Machete
Woodman's Pal Leather Machete
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The world's finest land clearing tool, handcrafted to Mil-Spec "LC-14-B" in America Since World War II.
Specifications
- Blade Length: 11.5"
- Handle Length: 5.5"
- Overall Length: 17"
- Weight: 24 oz
- Blade Thickness: 1/8" (1075 CRSS steel)
- Blade: Coined + Sharpened Sickle Hook. Stamped with Official WP Logo and Part Number. Matte Powder Coating.
- Handle: 32 Stacked Leather Washers (Semi Rough Texture) with Steel Knuckle Guard.
- Sheath: Premium Tough Buffalo Leather. Hand Stitched with Quality Hardware and Belt Loop for Easy Carry.
Leather vs. Wood
| Leather Handle | Wood Handle | |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Length | 11.5" | 10.5" |
| Handle Length | 5.5" | 6.5" |
| Overall Length | 17" | 17" |
| Weight | 24 oz | 22 oz |
| Grip / Feel | 32 stacked leather washers with a semi-rough texture for extra grip and comfort during long clearing sessions | Ash wood with finger grooves for a natural hardwood feel and a balanced grip for controlled chopping and precise cuts |
| Guard | Steel knuckle guard | No guard; finger grooves |
| Handle Care | Condition the leather periodically | Oil the wood occasionally |
| Best For | Grip security, comfort over long sessions, and knuckle protection | A classic, natural-feeling handle for versatile fieldwork |
Both handles share the same 1/8" 1075 CRSS steel blade. Each model has its own leather sheath: STH284 for the leather-handle #284 and STH481 for the wood-handle #481. The sheaths aren't interchangeable. Prefer the wood handle? See the Woodman's Pal Wood Machete.
What's Included
- Woodman's Pal Machete
- Premium Leather Sheath
- Sharpening Stone
- Reprints of Original 1940's Manuals
Uses
- Due to its light weight, balanced and compact design, the Woodman’s Pal performs all outdoor activities from clearing brush and blazing trails to trimming, thinning, chopping and pruning.
- Perfectly Balanced for an Efficient, Accurate and Comfortable Swinging Motion
- Chops up to 1 1/2" Diameter Saplings with Single Stroke
- Fells Larger Trees and Brush By Consecutive Notching
- Chisel Sharp Sickle Hook Trims Vines, Growth then Pulls and Stacks Trimmings
- Chop, Cut, Trim, Prune, Split, Blaze, Brush, Clear, Build
What Customers Say
- ★★★★★ “I carry this to clear some of the pointy pine branches when I go mushrooming. The front knuckle guard keeps branches from hitting me and the leather washer handle is extremely comfortable. …” — Kennedy E.
- ★★★★★ “… I do constantly chop privy hedges and vines all the time. It slices through anything you hit with it. …” — Coby
- ★★★★★ “… This is exactly what we were looking for to clear brush on our farm.” — Sharolyn S.
- ★★★★★ “… I live in southeast Texas … this tool makes quick work of not only brush, but even small trees. …” — Bran
- ★★★★★ “The Woodman’s Pal is a great all around tool for hiking through thick timber. …” — Chris S.
FAQ
What's included?
The Woodman's Pal machete, a premium leather sheath, a sharpening stone, and reprints of the original 1940's manuals.
How do the leather and wood handles differ?
The leather handle has an 11.5" blade, a 5.5" handle of 32 stacked leather washers with a steel knuckle guard, and weighs 24 oz. The wood handle has a 10.5" blade, a 6.5" ash wood handle with finger grooves, and weighs 22 oz. Both are 17" overall with a 1/8" 1075 CRSS steel blade. See the Leather vs. Wood tab for a side-by-side. Prefer wood? See the Wood Machete.
How do I sharpen it?
Every Woodman's Pal comes with a dual-grit sharpening stone. Use light, even strokes along the cutting edge, keep a consistent angle, and avoid over-sharpening. For a machete, about 20–25° suits grass and light brush, while 25–35° adds durability for chopping wood. Step-by-step guide: How to Use a Sharpening Stone.
How do I keep the blade from rusting?
The blade has a matte powder-coated finish, but the sharpened edge needs extra care: apply a thin layer of blade oil every few uses, dry the tool right away if it gets wet, and store it somewhere dry. If rust appears, scrub gently with a paste of baking soda and water, rinse, dry thoroughly, and re-oil. More tips: How to Care for Your Woodman's Pal.
How do I care for the leather sheath?
Condition it with a quality leather balm or oil every 3–6 months with regular use, and after heavy exposure to rain, sweat, sun, or dust. Use a small amount, since excess oil can seep through onto the blade, and avoid shoe polish. If the sheath gets wet, let it air-dry naturally away from heat and direct sunlight, then apply a little leather oil.
Is there a warranty or guarantee?
Yes. We stand behind our products with a full lifetime warranty and money back guarantee. If you are not completely satisfied, return your item and we will refund your purchase price, no questions asked. All products are eligible for a free exchange, including individual parts such as the handle, blade, or sheath. Contact info@woodmanspal.com or 800-869-7501 for a prepaid return label. Covers products purchased from Skyline Toolworks LLC (not Woodman's Pal tools sold under previous ownership or licensing). Details: Warranty.
How much is shipping?
Shipping is calculated at checkout. For questions about an order, email info@woodmanspal.com.
Where is it made?
The Woodman's Pal is handcrafted in America to Mil-Spec "LC-14-B", and its leather sheath is handmade by Amish craftsmen in Lancaster County, PA.
Can I buy a replacement sheath or sharpening stone?
Yes, both are sold separately: Leather Sheath and Sharpening Stone (4-inch, dual grit 240/120). Each model has its own sheath: STH284 fits the leather-handle #284 and STH481 fits the wood-handle #481. They don't fit each other, so order the one that matches your handle.
History
- The Woodman’s Pal was introduced in 1941 by Frederick Ehrsam. Ehrsam, a Swiss National who settled in PA, was an experienced engineer, artist, and woodsman. He recognized the need for an ‘all in one’ land management tool. This single implement serves the purpose of many various brush tools.
- Originally designed and patented in 1941 for civilian use, the Woodman’s Pal® quickly got the attention of the US Military during WWII. Initially procured for the US Army Signal Corps, it eventually became standard issue as a combat and survival tool for GI’s in the Pacific Theater.
- Click Here to Read More!
The world's finest land clearing tool, handcrafted to Mil-Spec "LC-14-B" in America Since World War II.
- Specifications
- Leather vs. Wood
- What's Included
- Uses
- What Customers Say
- FAQ
- History
- Warranty
- Blade Length: 11.5"
- Handle Length: 5.5"
- Overall Length: 17"
- Weight: 24 oz
- Blade Thickness: 1/8" (1075 CRSS steel)
- Blade: Coined + Sharpened Sickle Hook. Stamped with Official WP Logo and Part Number. Matte Powder Coating.
- Handle: 32 Stacked Leather Washers (Semi Rough Texture) with Steel Knuckle Guard.
- Sheath: Premium Tough Buffalo Leather. Hand Stitched with Quality Hardware and Belt Loop for Easy Carry.
| Leather Handle | Wood Handle | |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Length | 11.5" | 10.5" |
| Handle Length | 5.5" | 6.5" |
| Overall Length | 17" | 17" |
| Weight | 24 oz | 22 oz |
| Grip / Feel | 32 stacked leather washers with a semi-rough texture for extra grip and comfort during long clearing sessions | Ash wood with finger grooves for a natural hardwood feel and a balanced grip for controlled chopping and precise cuts |
| Guard | Steel knuckle guard | No guard; finger grooves |
| Handle Care | Condition the leather periodically | Oil the wood occasionally |
| Best For | Grip security, comfort over long sessions, and knuckle protection | A classic, natural-feeling handle for versatile fieldwork |
Both handles share the same 1/8" 1075 CRSS steel blade. Each model has its own leather sheath: STH284 for the leather-handle #284 and STH481 for the wood-handle #481. The sheaths aren't interchangeable. Prefer the wood handle? See the Woodman's Pal Wood Machete.
- Woodman's Pal Machete
- Premium Leather Sheath
- Sharpening Stone
- Reprints of Original 1940's Manuals
- Due to its light weight, balanced and compact design, the Woodman’s Pal performs all outdoor activities from clearing brush and blazing trails to trimming, thinning, chopping and pruning.
- Perfectly Balanced for an Efficient, Accurate and Comfortable Swinging Motion
- Chops up to 1 1/2" Diameter Saplings with Single Stroke
- Fells Larger Trees and Brush By Consecutive Notching
- Chisel Sharp Sickle Hook Trims Vines, Growth then Pulls and Stacks Trimmings
- Chop, Cut, Trim, Prune, Split, Blaze, Brush, Clear, Build
- ★★★★★ “I carry this to clear some of the pointy pine branches when I go mushrooming. The front knuckle guard keeps branches from hitting me and the leather washer handle is extremely comfortable. …” — Kennedy E.
- ★★★★★ “… I do constantly chop privy hedges and vines all the time. It slices through anything you hit with it. …” — Coby
- ★★★★★ “… This is exactly what we were looking for to clear brush on our farm.” — Sharolyn S.
- ★★★★★ “… I live in southeast Texas … this tool makes quick work of not only brush, but even small trees. …” — Bran
- ★★★★★ “The Woodman’s Pal is a great all around tool for hiking through thick timber. …” — Chris S.
What's included?
The Woodman's Pal machete, a premium leather sheath, a sharpening stone, and reprints of the original 1940's manuals.
How do the leather and wood handles differ?
The leather handle has an 11.5" blade, a 5.5" handle of 32 stacked leather washers with a steel knuckle guard, and weighs 24 oz. The wood handle has a 10.5" blade, a 6.5" ash wood handle with finger grooves, and weighs 22 oz. Both are 17" overall with a 1/8" 1075 CRSS steel blade. See the Leather vs. Wood tab for a side-by-side. Prefer wood? See the Wood Machete.
How do I sharpen it?
Every Woodman's Pal comes with a dual-grit sharpening stone. Use light, even strokes along the cutting edge, keep a consistent angle, and avoid over-sharpening. For a machete, about 20–25° suits grass and light brush, while 25–35° adds durability for chopping wood. Step-by-step guide: How to Use a Sharpening Stone.
How do I keep the blade from rusting?
The blade has a matte powder-coated finish, but the sharpened edge needs extra care: apply a thin layer of blade oil every few uses, dry the tool right away if it gets wet, and store it somewhere dry. If rust appears, scrub gently with a paste of baking soda and water, rinse, dry thoroughly, and re-oil. More tips: How to Care for Your Woodman's Pal.
How do I care for the leather sheath?
Condition it with a quality leather balm or oil every 3–6 months with regular use, and after heavy exposure to rain, sweat, sun, or dust. Use a small amount, since excess oil can seep through onto the blade, and avoid shoe polish. If the sheath gets wet, let it air-dry naturally away from heat and direct sunlight, then apply a little leather oil.
Is there a warranty or guarantee?
Yes. We stand behind our products with a full lifetime warranty and money back guarantee. If you are not completely satisfied, return your item and we will refund your purchase price, no questions asked. All products are eligible for a free exchange, including individual parts such as the handle, blade, or sheath. Contact info@woodmanspal.com or 800-869-7501 for a prepaid return label. Covers products purchased from Skyline Toolworks LLC (not Woodman's Pal tools sold under previous ownership or licensing). Details: Warranty.
How much is shipping?
Shipping is calculated at checkout. For questions about an order, email info@woodmanspal.com.
Where is it made?
The Woodman's Pal is handcrafted in America to Mil-Spec "LC-14-B", and its leather sheath is handmade by Amish craftsmen in Lancaster County, PA.
Can I buy a replacement sheath or sharpening stone?
Yes, both are sold separately: Leather Sheath and Sharpening Stone (4-inch, dual grit 240/120). Each model has its own sheath: STH284 fits the leather-handle #284 and STH481 fits the wood-handle #481. They don't fit each other, so order the one that matches your handle.
- The Woodman’s Pal was introduced in 1941 by Frederick Ehrsam. Ehrsam, a Swiss National who settled in PA, was an experienced engineer, artist, and woodsman. He recognized the need for an ‘all in one’ land management tool. This single implement serves the purpose of many various brush tools.
- Originally designed and patented in 1941 for civilian use, the Woodman’s Pal® quickly got the attention of the US Military during WWII. Initially procured for the US Army Signal Corps, it eventually became standard issue as a combat and survival tool for GI’s in the Pacific Theater.
- Click Here to Read More!
We stand behind our products with a full lifetime warranty and money back guarantee.
All of our products are eligible for a free exchange, including individual parts such as the handle, blade or sheath, if needed. See our Warranty page for more information.
- 5 stars: 24 (89%)
- 4 stars: 2 (7%)
- 3 stars: 1 (4%)
- 2 stars: 0 (0%)
- 1 star: 0 (0%)
Awesome product! Thanks
I haven't been able to take it out yet, but it seems to be a high quality tool.
Shipping was fast.
I like the leather sheath.
If there was anything that I would change, I would like to have a pocket on the sheath for the sharpening stone. And maybe a lanyard hole .
A very well made product that has a look of craftmanship with the handle and leather sheath. I am looking forward to getting to use ut for what it is intended
Well made
This tool/weapon (it comes with instructions on how to fight with said weapon, I bought for brush clearing) is a bloody (cause I can’t say the American word I want to use) beast. It’ll chop down small trees no problem. Sharp to begin with, what you’d expect from a traditional American made tool, not some Chinese made but “American” company. I live in southeast Texas, and damn but trees grow like weeds here, and this tool makes quick work of not only brush, but even small trees. I’m a Helko Werk axe guy, who bought this to clear the brush to cut down trees, but found it works as well as my favorite 12” Nepalese Kukri, if not better. It doesn’t look like much when you get it, but it’s a worker for sure. Screw machetes, this thing does the job and more. I’m a country boy, I use tools all the time, and I’ve rarely been so impressed with a tool.
Fantastic tool. Holds an edge well, stays sharp, not too heavy, well balanced, and cuts through any task I put it through.
Received one as a gift and I couldn’t be happier!
Very sharp out of the box and cuts through firewood like butter to make kindling. So sharp that I almost cut my finger off and had to get stitches..
Was not sure what to expect but the quality is great and is very sharp. It is weighted good and the design of the leather handle version is good. It is all I carry in the woods.
This is the one thing to have where ever you go outside. The sheath is thick and will last. The blade makes tis solid a great improvement over most store bought Machettes.
The tool is good quality but the elongated sharpening stone has been replaced/substituted with a rectangular stone that is useless on the brush hook and is bulky to carry.
One of the best quality machetes I’ve ever owned
It brings out the Orc in me.
What a great chopper. I don’t dig foxholes or strip wire with mine but I do constantly chop privy hedges and vines all the time. It slices through anything you hit with it. I’m used to a longer blade so it took getting used to. It’s high quality and worth the high price if you are a serious chopper. The zombie apocalypse crowd should be warned: this is made for work, hard work.
It's a W/P, What can I say. Came w/ everything needed to maintain. Sharpened and ready to go for when the going gets tough. Good heft, finger guard, and a heavy blade that won't bend. Yeah, it's heavy, mass and momentum yah know. I've used cane knives as an alternate and until the going got tough and/or the grip got slippery they were OK.
We had one of these and it walked off and needed one to replace ours. This is exactly what we were looking for to clear brush on our farm.
This is worth it's weight in gold!!!! This covers so many applications you will find yourself other tools less! Get it and you will thank yourself!
Classic design. Nothing more to say. Great product
I carry this to clear some of the pointy pine branches when I go mushrooming. The front knuckle guard keeps branches from hitting me and the leather washer handle is extremely comfortable. I used some Bick 4 leather conditioner to preserve the beautiful large full leather sheath and handle. Well worth the price. The little booklets that came with it are really awesome too. The stone and little bag are a great extra but I have other preferred stones, But I can always use another.
Great product. Wanted one since I was a kid! Made in the USA...not China!!
Comes with reprint of military use for brush clearing
The Woodman’s Pal is a great all around tool for hiking through thick timber. It is sturdy and well designed. Very handy!
There tool will do almost anything! Feels good in hand!
IMO, It’s very important to get the leather handle with the Guard, for Safety reasons. Warning the two blades come Extremely SHARPThe shape on the blade is Awesome. The design, weight and balance is AmazingThe manufacturer provides lots of instructions on use and care. The sharpening stone is of excellent quality.As long as you provide simple cleaning and after care, this hack sword is Definitely a keeper for GenerationsThank you very much to this Great American family owned business
Have used this a couple of times and it holds the edge and feels great in my hand! It is very well made and looks great!
Well made and sturdy. Not sure if the leather handle and metal hand guard is worth the money. Guard is great when cutting with the blade but gets in the way when you flip it over to use the brush hook
I've purchased multiple machetes in hopes of finding what I want without spending the money on a woodsmans pal. Yes, it is expensive. In short, once I finally broke down and bought one I realized that I truly wasted my money... On all those other machetes. The woodsmans pal is unbelievable. It's an absolute workhorse of a tool. I now own 10+ machetes and this is by far my best purchase. Hands down worth every penny. Completely surpassed my expectations.