I have used machetes for years. I have a garage full of them. They are cheap workhorses. But I have always liked them. If I am willing to spend $100 to $300 on a fine belt knife, like a Busse or Bark River when I can get a Mora for a fraction of that amount that performs as well or better in most situations, it is no more crazy to spend a similar amount on a finely crafted machete. At least that's my thinking. I doubt that the Bark River machete will do any more work in a day in my hands than a $6.00 Tramontina. And I could skin as many squirrels with a Mora as I could a Meaner Street, too. We are paying for the craftsmanship, materials, and beauty as much as the performance. Just my opinion.