Cut through dense scrub oak- machete or small camp axe?

[TruckMonkey]

I am headed some places in an upcoming hunt that I know I have to travel through some very dense scrub oak. I have worked my way through one of the areas before but it is extremely overgrown and time consuming. I would like to cut a very small path through scrub oak so it's easier to get out after dark or pack meat out through. I have literally had to get down on all 4s to get through this area previously.

Has anyone done this with a machete or camp axe? Which tool is best? I saw a SOG camp axe and machete are about the same weight as far as keeping in my pack and the axe seems more useful to me around camp.

Open to suggestions and am even debating just bringing pruning shears from home, but worry that will take too long.

 

[justinspicher]

So I deal with scrub constantly for work and cutting it with a set of pruning shears is your answer unless you are going to use a gas powered weed whacked with a metal blade.

 

[Hunt'nFish]

I use a razor sharp Gerber Parang for duck blind building. I can whack through 2" with a single blow. I know oak is much harder though... but just another option.
The shears might be better... particularly if it's a ratcheting model with long handles.
A folding pruning saw might also be an option for larger stuff.
Hunt'nFish

 

[moxford]

I've used it all clearing brush for SAR work and I have to second the shears. Get 2-handed and a one-handed pair, both "anvil style."

Axes are good for a little bit of really thick stuff.
Machetes/Parangs/etc are good for tons of really thin stuff when they're ultra sharp, but you have to keep touching them up. Stuff tends to start bending out of the way of the blade without a solid initial bite and resistance from whatever you're cutting.

Both of the above will make you much more tired and make much more noise. And require more touching up.

Shears are not as sexy as swinging a blade but they're more efficient and safer too, especially when you start getting tired and sloppy. The mechanical advantage on long shears is pure win vs holding and hacking on a branch.

-mox

 

[aclawrence]

The machete will work but I think the shears would be a more efficient tool. Last time I cleared a long trail i used a machete and my forearm was hurting bad when I got to camp. I didn't realize it until it was too late. My forearm muscle was tight. I would take a super sharp lightweight machete and shears.