Patent Publication Number: US-2022234221-A1

Title: Folding machete

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/408,551, filed on May 10, 2019, which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/670,364, filed May 11, 2018, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The present invention relates generally to the field of knives and in particular to the field of knives that fold to facilitate storage and transportation. 
     SUMMARY 
     At least one embodiment relates to a knife. The knife includes a blade defining an aperture and a handle. The handle includes a body pivotably coupled to the blade, a catch movably coupled to the body, and a biasing member coupled to the body. The catch includes a protrusion. The biasing member is configured to apply a biasing force on the catch. The handle is selectively repositionable between a first position and a second position relative to the blade. The biasing force biases the protrusion of the catch toward the blade when the handle is in the first position. The protrusion is received by the aperture to prevent rotation of the handle relative to the blade when the handle is in the first position. 
     Another embodiment relates to a knife. The knife has a blade, a first handle, a second handle, and a latch. The first handle has a first proximal end portion pivotably coupled to the blade and a first distal end portion opposite the first proximal end portion. The second handle has a second proximal end portion pivotably coupled to the blade and a second distal end portion opposite the second proximal end portion. The second distal end defines a first locking mechanism and a second locking mechanism. The first locking mechanism and the second locking mechanism are separately and integrally formed on different sides of the second distal end. The latch is pivotably coupled to the second distal end portion and supports a locking pin. The locking pin is configured to selectively engage each of the first locking mechanism and the second locking mechanism separately. The first handle and the second handle are each selectively repositionable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the first handle and the second handle extend away from the blade. In the closed position, the first handle and the second handle extend along the blade. The first locking mechanism is configured to receive the locking pin when the first handle and the second handle are in the open position to lock the first handle and the second handle in the open positions. The second locking mechanism is configured to receive the locking pin when the first handle and the second handle are in the closed positions to lock the first handle and the second handle in the closed positions. 
     Another embodiment relates to a knife. The knife includes a blade defining an aperture and a handle. The handle includes a body pivotably coupled to the blade, a catch movably coupled to the body, and a torsion spring coupled to the body. The catch includes a protrusion. The torsion spring is configured to apply an outward rotational biasing force on the catch. The knife also includes a latch supporting a locking pin. The latch is rotatably coupled to the handle, and is movable between a first locking position and a second locking position where the locking pin engages different areas of the body of the handle. The handle is selectively repositionable between a first position and a second position relative to the blade. The biasing force biases the protrusion of the catch toward the blade when the handle is in the first position. The protrusion is received by the aperture to prevent rotation of the handle relative to the blade when the handle is in the first position. The locking pin is positioned in the first locking position when the handle is in the first position. In order to transition the handle from the first position to the second position, the latch must be rotated to remove the locking pin from the first locking position. 
     This summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other aspects, inventive features, and advantages of the devices or processes described herein will become apparent in the detailed description set forth herein, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a folding machete, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is another perspective view of the folding machete of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a side view of the folding machete of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a top view of the folding machete of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is a side view of the folding machete of  FIG. 1  in a closed configuration. 
         FIG. 6  is an exploded view of the folding machete of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 7  is a side view of a blade of the folding machete of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 8  is a bottom view of the blade of  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 9  is another side view of the blade of  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a frame of a first handle of the folding machete of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 11  is another perspective view of the frame of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a frame of a second handle of the folding machete of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 13  is another perspective view of the frame of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 14  is a side view of the blade of  FIG. 7 , the frame of  FIG. 10 , and the frame of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 15  is another side view of the blade of  FIG. 7 , the frame of  FIG. 10 , and the frame of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a scale of the first handle and a scale of the second handle of the folding machete of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 17  is another perspective view of the scales of  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 18  is a side view of the scales of  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of a catch of the folding machete of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of the folding machete of  FIG. 1  with the scales of  FIG. 16  removed. 
         FIG. 21  is a side view of the blade of  FIG. 7 , the frame of  FIG. 10 , and the frame of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of the catches of  FIG. 19  engaging the blade of  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 23  is a side view of a latch of the folding machete of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 24  is a side view of the folding machete of  FIG. 1  with the scales of  FIG. 16  removed. 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view of a folding machete, according to another exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG. 26  is an exploded view of the folding machete of  FIG. 25 . 
         FIGS. 27A-27D  are side views of the folding machete of  FIG. 25 , shown in an open position, a first intermediate position, a second intermediate position, and a closed position. 
         FIG. 28A  is a perspective view of the folding machete of  FIG. 25 , shown in the closed position with scales removed. 
         FIG. 28B  is a perspective view of the folding machete of  FIG. 25 , shown in the open position with scales removed. 
         FIG. 29A  is a side view of the folding machete of  FIG. 28A . 
         FIG. 29B  is a side view of the folding machete of  FIG. 28B . 
         FIG. 30  is another side view of the folding machete of  FIG. 29B . 
         FIGS. 31A and 31B  are a perspective views of a catch mechanism present in the folding machete of  FIG. 25 , with scales removed. 
         FIG. 32  is a side view of a blade of the folding machete of  FIG. 25 . 
         FIGS. 33A-33C  are perspective and side views of a frame of a first handle of the folding machete of  FIG. 25 . 
         FIGS. 34A-34C  are perspective and side views of a frame of a second handle of the folding machete of  FIG. 25 . 
         FIGS. 35A and 35B  are detailed perspective views of the folding machete of  FIG. 25  in a closed position, with a latch in a locked position and an unlocked position. 
         FIGS. 36A and 36B  are detailed perspective views of the folding machete of  FIG. 25  in an open position, with a latch in a locked position and an unlocked position. 
         FIGS. 37A and 37B  are perspective and side views of the latch of the folding machete of  FIG. 25 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Before turning to the figures, which illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the application is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting. 
     Referring generally to the figures, a machete includes a pair of folding handles pivotably coupled to a tang of a blade. The folding handles can be rotated relative to a blade to facilitate a user grasping the machete and covering the blade for storage. In an open position, the handles extend adjacent one another and away from the blade such that a user can hold both handles in one hand when using the machete. In a closed position, a slot defined in each handle having a “U” shaped cross-section receives the blade. The handles each include a gear. The gears engage one another and allow the handles to rotate relative to the blade at the same rate when opening and closing. 
     The machete further includes a pair of catches in each handle that selectively engage corresponding apertures defined in the blade. The catches can prevent rotation of the handles relative to the blade. The catches are each attached to the corresponding handles by a pin that allows rotation of the catch about the pin. A first end portion of the catch is shaped to engage the apertures of the blade, and an opposing second end portion of the catch engages a biasing member that urges the second end portion of the catch away from the blade. The apertures extend through the blade substantially perpendicular to the main surface of the blade, and the catches are biased by the biasing member (e.g., a torsion spring) to automatically rotate into the apertures when the handles rotate into the open position, the closed position, or an intermediate position. To release the catches, a user pushes on the second end portion of each catch. The intermediate position is located between the open and closed positions of the respective handle. In the intermediate position, the handles are spaced away from the blade to prevent the user from trapping their fingers. 
     The machete further includes a latch rotatably attached to one of the handles. In some embodiments, the latch defines a pair of opposing grooves. The other handle can include a latch pin. In the closed position, the latch can be rotated such that one of the grooves receives the latch pin, preventing movement of the handles. In the open position, the latch can be rotated such that the other groove receives the latch pin, preventing movement of the handles. The grooves are sized such that the latch pin is a snap fit into the grooves. In other embodiments, the a pin extends outward from at least one side of the latch. The pin on the latch selectively engages concave grooves formed in one of the handles to restrict relative rotation between the handles and the blade. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-5 and 25-27D , collapsible knife assemblies, shown as folding machetes  100 ,  100 ′ are illustrated according to exemplary embodiments. The folding machetes  100 ,  100 ′ each include a blade  102 ,  102 ′ pivotably coupled to a first handle, shown as top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and a second handle, shown as bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′. The top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ are each configured to rotate between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, shown in  FIGS. 1-4, 25, and 27A , the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ extend away from the blade  102 ,  102 ′. In this position, the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ extend adjacent one another so that a user can wrap their hand around both the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ simultaneously to use the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′. In the closed position, shown in  FIGS. 5 and 27D , the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ extend along the blade  102 ,  102 ′, reducing the overall size of the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′ to facilitate transport and storage. The top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ each define a groove, channel, or slot  108 ,  108 ′ that extends the entire length of the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ or the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ (i.e., from a proximal end portion  110 ,  110 ′ that couples to the blade  102 ,  102 ′ to a distal end portion  112 ,  112 ′ opposite the proximal end portion  110 ,  110 ′). When the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ are in the closed positions, the blade  102 ,  102 ′ (e.g., the entire length of the blade  102 ,  102 ′, the majority of the length of the blade  102 ,  102 ′, etc.) is received within the slots  108 ,  108 ′. This reduces the overall size of the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′ and prevents contact between sharpened edges of the blade  102 ,  102 ′ (e.g., the cutting edge  126 ,  126 ′) and other objects. The closed position prevents the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′ from becoming dull prematurely, reduces the likelihood of accidentally cutting another object during transport, and eliminates the need for a sheath. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6-9, 26, and 32 , the blade  102 ,  102 ′ is formed from a flat piece of material. The blade  102 ,  102 ′ has a pair of main surfaces  120 ,  120 ′. The main surfaces  120 ,  120 ′ include a flat portion  122 ,  122 ′ and a tapered portion  124 ,  124 ′. The flat portions  122 ,  122 ′ extend substantially parallel to one another. The tapered portions  124 ,  124 ′ extend toward one another, meeting at a sharpened edge or cutting edge  126 ,  126 ′. The tapered portions  124 ,  124 ′ and the cutting edge  126 ,  126 ′ may be formed by grinding, for example, and may be formed of heat treated or hardened material. The cutting edge  126 ,  126 ′ may be used to cut various materials, such as wood, grasses, sugar cane, coconuts, or meat. Opposite the cutting edge  126 ,  126 ′, the blade  102 ,  102 ′ defines a series of notches or jimping  128 ,  128 ′. The jimping  128 ,  128 ′ provides a textured surface that may be used as a striking surface to be used for batoning. Batoning is a technique for splitting wood in which the user strikes the top of blade  102 ,  102 ′ at the jimping  128 ,  128 ′ (e.g., with a hammer, a mallet, a piece of wood, etc.) to drive the blade  102 ,  102 ′ deeper into or through the wood being split. 
     The blade  102 ,  102 ′ includes a handle interface section, shown as tang  140 ,  140 ′, that extends away from the cutting edge  126 ,  126 ′ and that acts as an interface between the blade  102 ,  102 ′, the top handle  104 ,  104 ′, and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′. The tang  140 ,  140 ′ is formed between the flat portions  122 ,  122 ′ of the main surfaces  120 ,  120 ′. The tang  140 ,  140 ′ defines a series of apertures that extend through both of the main surfaces  120 ,  120 ′. A first aperture, shown as stop pin aperture  142 ,  142 ′, is configured to receive a stop pin  144 ,  144 ′. The stop pin  144 ,  144 ′ is a cylindrical pin that extends through the blade  102 ,  102 ′ such that equal lengths of the stop pin  144 ,  144 ′ extend on each side of the blade  102 ,  102 ′. The stop pin aperture  142 ,  142 ′ may be sized as a press fit for the stop pin  144 ,  144 ′ to hold the stop pin  144 ,  144 ′ in place. The tang  140 ,  140 ′ further defines a pair of second apertures, shown as handle connection apertures  146 ,  146 ′. The handle connection apertures  146 ,  146 ′ facilitate the pivotable connection between the top handle  104 ,  104 ′, the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′, and the blade  102 ,  102 ′. A pair of third apertures, shown as open position apertures  148 ,  148 ′, a pair of fourth apertures, shown as intermediate position apertures  150 ,  150 ′, and a pair of fifth apertures, shown as closed position apertures  152 ,  152 ′, facilitate selectively locking the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ in the open position, an intermediate position, and the closed position, respectively. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6, 10, 11, 26, and 33A-33C , the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ includes a body or top handle frame, shown as frame  200 ,  200 ′. The frame  200 ,  200 ′ includes a first body member, shown as plate  202 ,  202 ′, and a second body member, shown as plate  204 ,  204 ′. The plate  202 ,  202 ′ and the plate  204 ,  204 ′ are laterally offset from one another. A third body member, shown as connecting section  206 ,  206 ′, extends between and fixedly couples to the plate  202 ,  202 ′ and the plate  204 ,  204 ′. The slot  108 ,  108 ′ of the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ is defined between the plate  202 ,  202 ′, the plate  204 ,  204 ′, and the connecting section  206 ,  206 ′. The plate  202 ,  202 ′, the plate  204 ,  204 ′, and the connecting section  206 ,  206 ′ together have a “U” shaped cross section such that the slot  108 ,  108 ′ is also “U” shaped. In some embodiments, the plate  202 ,  202 ′, the plate  204 ,  204 ′, and the connecting section  206 ,  206 ′ are formed from a single sheet of bent material. The plate  202 ,  202 ′ and the plate  204 ,  204 ′ are substantially the same length. The connecting section  206 ,  206 ′ is shorter than the plate  202 ,  202 ′ and the plate  204 ,  204 ′. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6, 12, 14, 26, and 34A-34C , the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ includes a body or bottom handle frame, shown as frame  210 ,  210 ′. The frame  210 ,  210 ′ includes a first body member, shown as plate  212 ,  212 ′, and a second body member, shown as plate  214 ,  214 ′. The plate  212 ,  212 ′ and the plate  214 ,  214 ′ are laterally offset from one another. A third body member, shown as connecting section  216 ,  216 ′, extends between and fixedly couples to the plate  212 ,  212 ′ and the plate  214 ,  214 ′. The slot  108 ,  108 ′ of the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ is defined between the plate  212 ,  212 ′, the plate  214 ,  214 ′, and the connecting section  216 ,  216 ′. The plate  212 ,  212 ′, the plate  214 ,  214 ′, and the connecting section  216 ,  216 ′ together have a “U” shaped cross section such that the slot  108 ,  108 ′ is also “U” shaped. In some embodiments, the plate  212 ,  212 ′, the plate  214 ,  214 ′, and the connecting section  216 ,  216 ′ are formed from a single sheet of bent material. The plate  212 ,  212 ′ and the plate  214 ,  214 ′ are substantially the same length. The connecting section  216 ,  216 ′ is shorter than the plate  212 ,  212 ′ and the plate  214 ,  214 ′. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1, 10-13, 26, and 33A-34C , the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ is configured to engage the palm of a user, and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ is configured to engage the fingers of a user. Accordingly, the frame  200 ,  200 ′ and the frame  210 ,  210 ′ are shaped to facilitate this engagement. The height of the frame  200 ,  200 ′ gradually decreases as the frame  200 ,  200 ′ extends away from the connection to the blade  102 ,  102 ′ (e.g., away from the proximal end portion  110 ,  110 ′). The height of the frame  210 ,  210 ′ is substantially constant near the connection to the blade  102 ,  102 ′. Near the center of the frame  210 ,  210 ′, the height of the frame  210 ,  210 ′ fluctuates to create an ergonomic profile. For example, the contour of the frame  210 ,  210 ′ can be defined by a height that decreases, then increases slightly and decreases again, forming finger rests. Near the end of the frame  210 ,  210 ′ opposite the connection to the blade  102 ,  102 ′ (e.g., the distal end portion  112 ,  112 ′), the height of the frame  210 ,  210 ′ greatly increases, forming a pommel to prevent the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′ from slipping out of the user&#39;s hand. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6, 10-13, 25-26, and 33A-34C , the plate  202 ,  202 ′, the plate  204 ,  204 ′, the plate  212 ,  212 ′, and the plate  214 ,  214 ′ each define a series of apertures, shown as mounting holes  220 ,  220 ′. The mounting holes  220 ,  220 ′ are threaded to receive fasteners  222 ,  222 ′ that couple other components (e.g., the top scales  300 ,  300 ′ and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′) to the frame  200 ,  200 ′ and the frame  210 ,  210 ′. The plate  202 ,  202 ′ and the plate  204 ,  204 ′ each define a first aperture, shown as pin aperture  224 ,  224 ′. The pin apertures  224 ,  224 ′ are sized to receive a first dowel or pin, shown as pivot pin  226 ,  226 ′. The pin apertures  224 ,  224 ′ and the pivot pin  226 ,  226 ′ extend perpendicular to the plate  202 ,  202 ′ and the plate  204 ,  204 ′. In some embodiments, the plate  212  and the plate  214  each define a second aperture, shown as pin aperture  228 . The pin apertures  228  are sized to receive a second dowel or pin, shown as latch pin  230 . The pin apertures  228  and the latch pin  230  extend perpendicular to the plate  212  and the plate  214 . 
     The plate  202 ,  202 ′, the plate  204 ,  204 ′, the plate  212 ,  212 ′, and the plate  214 ,  214 ′ each define an aperture, shown as handle connection aperture  240 ,  240 ′. The handle connection apertures  240 ,  240 ′ are configured to receive a female fastener, shown as outer sleeve  242 ,  242 ′, and a male fastener, shown as fastener  244 ,  244 ′. The outer sleeves  242 ,  242 ′ and the fasteners  244 ,  244 ′ extend through both of the handle connection apertures  240 ,  240 ′ of one of the frames and one of the handle connection apertures  146 ,  146 ′ of the blade  102 ,  102 ′, pivotably coupling the frame  200 ,  200 ′ and the frame  210 ,  210 ′ to the blade  102 ,  102 ′. The outer sleeves  242 ,  242 ′ each define an outer surface that engages the edges of the corresponding handle connection apertures  240 ,  240 ′ and the handle connection aperture  146 ,  146 ′. The outer sleeves  242 ,  242 ′ each define a threaded aperture that receives the fastener  244 ,  244 ′. The handle connection apertures  240 ,  240 ′, the outer sleeve  242 ,  242 ′, and the fasteners  244 ,  244 ′ all extend perpendicular to the plate  202 ,  202 ′, the plate  204 ,  204 ′, the plate  212 ,  212 ′, and the plate  214 ,  214 ′. Accordingly, the frame  200 ,  200 ′ and, by extension, the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ rotate about an axis of rotation  246 ,  246 ′ relative to the blade  102 ,  102 ′. The frame  210 ,  210 ′ and, by extension, the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ rotate about an axis of rotation  248 ,  248 ′ relative to the blade  102 ,  102 ′. The axis of rotation  246 ,  246 ′ and the axis of rotation  248 ,  248 ′ extend perpendicular to the plate  202 ,  202 ′, the plate  204 ,  204 ′, the plate  212 ,  212 ′, the plate  214 ,  214 ′, and the flat portions  122 ,  122 ′ of the blade  102 ,  102 ′. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 6 and 14 , the outer sleeve  242  and one of the handle connection apertures  240  of each frame define corresponding flat surfaces  250  that engage one another to prevent the outer sleeve  242  from rotating relative to the corresponding frame. This prevents the outer sleeves  242  from rotating and loosening the fasteners  244  as the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106  are rotated relative to the blade  102 . Additionally, and with additional reference to  FIGS. 26 and 33A-34C , the plate  202 ,  202 ′, the plate  204 ,  204 ′, the plate  212 ,  212 ′, and the plate  214 ,  214 ′ each form a circular depression  252 ,  252 ′ that extends laterally inward toward the slot  108 ,  108 ′. The circular depressions  252 ,  252 ′ are centered around the corresponding handle connection apertures  240 ,  240 ′. The circular depressions  252 ,  252 ′ may be formed by stamping such that a corresponding circular protrusion extends into the slot  108 ,  108 ′. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11, 13, 14, and 33A-34C , the sides of the plate  202 ,  202 ′, the plate  204 ,  204 ′, the plate  212 ,  212 ′, and the plate  214 ,  214 ′ each define a recess  260 ,  260 ′ configured to receive the stop pin  144 ,  144 ′. Engagement between the frame  200 ,  200 ′ and the stop pin  144 ,  144 ′ and between the frame  210 ,  210 ′ and the stop pin  144 ,  144 ′ ensures that the open positons of the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ are consistent each time the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′ is opened. Additionally, the stop pin  144 ,  144 ′ prevents the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ from moving beyond the open position. Accordingly, the stop pin  144 ,  144 ′ facilitates a consistent operation of the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′ while ensuring that the blade  102 ,  102 ′ does not move relative to the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ or the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ when the user grips both the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ in the open position. In some embodiments, each of the plates  202 ′,  204 ′,  212 ′,  214 ′ define a relief groove  298 ′. The relief groove  298 ′ can be formed away from the recesses  260 ′, and can have a smoothly-curving concave shape extending to the connecting sections  206 ′,  216 ′ of each handle  104 ′,  106 ′. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11, 12, 15, and 33A-34C , the plate  204 ,  204 ′ and the plate  214 ,  214 ′ each define a gear  270 ,  270 ′. Each gear  270 ,  270 ′ includes a series of protrusions, shown as gear teeth  272 ,  272 ′, extending radially outward along the side of the plate  204 ,  204 ′ or the plate  214 ,  214 ′. The gears  270 ,  270 ′ are radially centered about the axis of rotation  246 ,  246 ′ and the axis of rotation  248 ,  248 ′, respectively, such that each of the gear teeth  272 ,  272 ′ corresponding to the first gear  270 ,  270 ′ are equidistant from the axis of rotation  246 ,  246 ′ and each of the gear teeth  272 ,  272 ′ corresponding to the second gear  270 ,  270 ′ are equidistant from the axis of rotation  248 ,  248 ′ (i.e., the pitch circle of each gear  270 ,  270 ′ is centered about the corresponding axis of rotation). The gear teeth  272 ,  272 ′ of the frame  200 ,  200 ′ engage the gear teeth  272 ,  272 ′ of the frame  210 ,  210 ′, coupling the rotation of the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the rotation of the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′. Accordingly, when the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ rotates relative to the blade  102 ,  102 ′, the engagement between the gears  270 ,  270 ′ causes the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ to rotate relative to the blade  102 ,  102 ′. By way of example, when the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ rotates toward the open position, the gears  270 ,  270 ′ cause the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ to rotate toward the open position simultaneously. Both of the gears  270 ,  270 ′ have the same pitch diameter and utilize gear teeth  272 ,  272 ′ having the same diametrical pitch. Accordingly, the gears  270 ,  270 ′ cause the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ to rotate at the same rate relative to the blade  102 ,  102 ′. The gears  270 ,  270 ′ facilitate a faster and more controlled opening or closing of the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′, as a user can control movement of both the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ using only one hand. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 10-13, and 28A-31B , the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ each include a pair of biasing members  280 ,  280 ′. In some embodiments, spring bars, shown as spring tabs  280 , can be used as part of a catch mechanism. Specifically, the plate  202 , the plate  204 , the plate  212 , and the plate  214  can each be coupled to a spring tab  280 . The plate  202 , the plate  204 , the plate  212 , and the plate  214  each define an aperture, shown as spring tab aperture  282 , that receives the corresponding spring tab  280 . Each spring tab  280  includes a longitudinal section  284  and a vertical protrusion  286 . The longitudinal section  284  extends partway across the corresponding spring tab aperture  282 , extending lengthwise along the frame  200  or the frame  210  toward the handle connection aperture  240 . A proximal end of each longitudinal section  284  is coupled to the corresponding plate. The vertical protrusion  286  is coupled to a distal end of the longitudinal section  284  opposite the proximal end. The vertical protrusion  286  extends vertically from the longitudinal section  284 . Specifically, when the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106  are in the open position, the vertical protrusion  286  extends toward a longitudinal centerline of the folding machete  100 . By way of example, when the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106  are in the closed position, the vertical protrusion  286  of the spring tab  280  coupled to the plate  202  extends toward the plate  212 . Each spring tab  280  is bent outward from the corresponding plate. When a force is applied that pushes the spring tab  280  toward the slot  108 , the spring tab  280  resists bending, applying a biasing force oriented laterally outward from the slot  108 . In some embodiments, the spring tabs  280  are integrally formed with the frame  200  or the frame  210 . 
     Alternatively, the top handle  104 ′ and bottom handle  106 ′ can each include torsion springs  280 ′. The torsion springs  280 ′ can be positioned within apertures  282 ′ that extend through each of the plates  202 ′,  204 ′,  212 ′,  214 ′. Each handle  104 ′,  106 ′ can include two torsion springs  280 ′ that are coupled to the handles  104 ′,  106 ′. Each torsion spring  280 ′ can be anchored to one of the plates  202 ′,  204 ′,  212 ′,  214 ′, and extend laterally outward, away from the plate  202 ′  204 ′,  212 ′,  214 ′ the torsion spring  280 ′ is anchored to. The torsion springs  280 ′ provide a rotational bias that resists rotation inward, toward the plates  202 ′,  204 ′,  212 ′,  214 ′. In other embodiments, different types of biasing members can be used, such as compression springs that engage the plate  202 , for example. 
     The plate  202 ,  202 ′, the plate  204 ,  204 ′, the plate  212 ,  212 ′, and the plate  214 ,  214 ′ each also define an aperture, shown as catch slot  290 ,  290 ′. The catch slot  290 ,  290 ′ extends lengthwise along the frame  200 ,  200 ′ or the frame  210 ,  210 ′. The catch slot  290 ,  290 ′ extends between the handle connection aperture  240 ,  240 ′ and the aperture  282 ,  282 ′. The catch slot  290  can be aligned with the vertical protrusion  286  of the spring tab  280 . The catch slot  290 ′ can be offset from the aperture  282 ′. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 13 and 34A , the frame  210 ,  210 ′ defines an aperture, shown as lanyard aperture  294 ,  294 ′. Specifically, a protrusion, shown as lanyard protrusion  296 ,  296 ′ extends laterally outward from the plate  212 ,  212 ′, away from the slot  108 ,  108 ′. The lanyard aperture  294 ,  294 ′ is defined between the lanyard protrusion  296 ,  296 ′ and the plate  212 ,  212 ′. A lanyard may extend through the lanyard aperture  294 ,  294 ′ and tie around the lanyard protrusion  296 ,  296 ′ to facilitate hanging the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′ during transportation or storage. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6, 16-18, and 26 , the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′ further includes a pair of first bodies or covers, shown as top scales  300 ,  300 ′, and a pair of second bodies or covers, shown as bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′. The top scales  300 ,  300 ′ are coupled to the plate  202 ,  202 ′ and the plate  204 ,  204 ′, respectively, and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′ are coupled to the plate  212 ,  212 ′ and the plate  214 ,  214 ′, respectively. The top scales  300 ,  300 ′ and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′ increase the overall width of the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ and have shaped and textured outer surfaces that facilitate a user comfortably and securely holding the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′. The top scales  300 ,  300 ′ and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′ define apertures, shown as mounting holes  310 ,  310 ′. The fasteners  222 ,  222 ′ extend through the mounting holes  310 ,  310 ′ and into the mounting holes  220 ,  220 ′ to couple the top scales  300 ,  300 ′ and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′ to the frame  200 ,  200 ′ and the frame  210 ,  210 ′, respectively. To facilitate alignment, the top scales  300 ,  300 ′ and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′ each include a cylindrical protrusion  312 . The cylindrical protrusions  312  are received within the circular depressions  252 ,  252 ′. The top scales  300 ,  300 ′ and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′ further define handle connection apertures  314  at the center of the cylindrical protrusions  312 . The handle connection apertures  314  receive the outer sleeves  242 ,  242 ′ and the fasteners  244 ,  244 ′ therethrough. When the fasteners  244 ,  244 ′ are tightened, the fasteners  244 ,  244 ′ and the outer sleeves  242 ,  242 ′ press against the top scales  300 ,  300 ′ and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′, preventing separation of the top scales  300 ,  300 ′ and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′ from the frame  200 ,  200 ′ and the frame  210 ,  210 ′. 
     The top scales  300 ,  300 ′ and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′ further define recesses, shown as pin recesses  316 , that extend partway through the top scales  300 ,  300 ′ and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′. The pin recesses  316  receive the ends of the pivot pin  226 ,  226 ′ and the latch pin  230  such that the top scales  300 ,  300 ′ or the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′ engage the pivot pin  226 ,  226 ′ and the latch pin  230 . Because the pin recesses  316  do not extend through the entirety of the top scales  300 ,  300 ′ and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′, the pivot pin  226 ,  226 ′ and the latch pin  230  are prevented from moving out of the frame  200 ,  200 ′ or the frame  210 ,  210 ′. The top scales  300 ,  300 ′ and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′ further define recesses, shown as stop pin recesses  318 . The stop pin recesses  318  are semicircular and arranged along a side of the top scales  300 ,  300 ′ and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′ such that the stop pin recesses  318  receive the stop pin  144 ,  144 ′ when the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ are in the open positions. As the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ move toward the closed position, the stop pin  144 ,  144 ′ passes out of the stop pin recesses  318 . The top scales  300 ,  300 ′ and the bottom scales  302 ,  302 ′ each further define a first recess, shown as catch pin recess  320 , an aperture, shown as catch aperture  322 ,  322 ′, and a second recess, shown as catch recess  324 . The pin recesses  316 , the stop pin recesses  318 , the catch pin recess  320 , and the catch recesses  324  all extend laterally outward from an inside surface of the top scale  300 ,  300 ′ or the bottom scale  302 ,  302 ′. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 14-17, 19, 20, and 26-31B , the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ each further include a pair of levers or locking members, shown as catches  350 ,  350 ′. The catches  350 ,  350 ′ include a first section  352 ,  352 ′ and second section  354 ,  354 ′. Each catch  350 ,  350 ′ defines an aperture, shown as pin aperture  356 ,  356 ′, positioned between the first section  352 ,  352 ′ and the second section  354 ,  354 ′. A protrusion, shown as locking protrusion  358 ,  358 ′, extends away from the end of the first section  352 ,  352 ′ opposite the second section  354 ,  354 ′. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 14-17, 20, and 26-31B , the catches  350 ,  350 ′ are each coupled to the frame  200 ,  200 ′ or the frame  210 ,  210 ′ by a pin, shown as catch pin  360 ,  360 ′. The catch pins  360 ,  360 ′ extend though the pin aperture  356 ,  356 ′ to pivotably couple the catch  350 ,  350 ′ to the corresponding catch pin  360 ,  360 ′. The catches  350 ,  350 ′ rotate about an axis of rotation  362 ,  362 ′ that extends parallel to the catch pin  360 ,  360 ′ and the pin aperture  356 ,  356 ′. The catch pins  360 ,  360 ′ are received by the catch pin recesses  320 , holding the catches  350 ,  350 ′ in place relative to the frame  200 ,  200 ′ and the frame  210 ,  210 ′. With the catch pins  360  (or catch pins  360 ′, in folding machete  100 ′) positioned within the catch pin recesses  320 , the catches  350  are received within the catch recesses  324 , and the second sections  354  of the catches  350  extend outward through the catch apertures  322 , as demonstrated in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . In some embodiments, the vertical protrusions  286  of the spring tabs  280  engage the second sections  354 , biasing the second sections  354  laterally outward, away from the slots  108 , and through the catch apertures  322 . The spring tabs  280  bias the catches  350  toward an engaged position. Alternatively, the torsion springs  280 ′ can engage the second sections  354 ′, biasing the second sections  354  laterally outward, away from the slots  108 ′, and through the catch apertures  322 ′. The rotational bias supplied by the torsion springs  280 ′ urges the catches  350 ′ inward, about the catch pin  360 ′, toward an engaged position. A user may apply a force on the second section  354 ,  354 ′ toward the slots  108 ,  108 ′ to move or rotate the catches  350 ,  350 ′ toward a disengaged position. The catches  350 ,  350 ′ are located in the same longitudinal and vertical positions on the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and on the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ such that a user can pinch the second sections  354 ,  354 ′ toward one another to move the catches  350 ,  350 ′ toward the disengaged positions. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 20, 21, 22, and 31A-31B , when the catches  350 ,  350 ′ are in the engaged positions, the catches  350 ,  350 ′ extend through the catch slots  290 ,  290 ′ to engage the blade  102 ,  102 ′. When the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ are in the open position, the closed position, or an intermediate position between the open and closed positions, the catch slots  290 ,  290 ′ align with the open position apertures  148 ,  148 ′, the closed position apertures  152 ,  152 ′, and the intermediate position apertures  150 ,  150 ′, respectively. As shown in  FIGS. 22 and 31A-31B , with the catches  350 ,  350 ′ in the engaged positions, the locking protrusions  358 ,  358 ′ extend into the open position apertures  148 ,  148 ′, the closed position apertures  152 ,  152 ′, or the intermediate position apertures  150 ,  150 ′. The locking protrusions  358 ,  358 ′ engage the blade  102 ,  102 ′, preventing relative rotation between the blade  102 ,  102 ′, the top handle  104 ,  104 ′, and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′. Because the biasing members  280 ,  280 ′ bias the catches  350 ,  350 ′ toward the engaged positions, the locking protrusions  358 ,  358 ′ automatically engage the open position apertures  148 ,  148 ′, the closed position apertures  152 ,  152 ′, or the intermediate position apertures  150 ,  150 ′ as the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ are rotated. 
       FIGS. 7 and 32  illustrate the open positions, closed positions, and intermediate positions of the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′. The locations of the open positions, closed positions, and intermediate positions are based on the positions of the open position aperture  148 ,  148 ′, the intermediate position aperture  150 ,  150 ′, and the closed position aperture  152 ,  152 ′. In some embodiments, the top handle  104  extends along axis P C1  in the closed position, along the axis P I1  in the intermediate position, and along the axis P O1  in the open position. The bottom handle  106  extends along axis P C2  in the closed position, along the axis P I2  in the intermediate position, and along the axis P O2  in the open position. For both the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106 , the open position is angularly offset from the closed position by a first angle θ 1 , the closed position is angularly offset from the intermediate position by a second angle θ 2 , and the open position is angularly offset from the intermediate position by a third angle θ 3 . The angle θ 1  is approximately 180 degrees. Accordingly, as shown, the open and closed positions of the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106  are substantially parallel. In other embodiments, the angle θ 1  is less than 180 degrees. The angle θ 2  is less than the angle θ 3  (e.g., 15 degrees, 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 60 degrees, etc.). 
     The locations of the positioning apertures  148 ′,  150 ′,  152 ′ can be adjusted to accommodate for differently-sized handles  104 ′,  106 ′ as well. As depicted in  FIG. 32 , each positioning aperture  148 ′,  150 ′,  152 ′ is spaced, equidistantly, from one of the connection apertures  146 ′. Each aperture  148 ′,  150 ′,  152 ′ can be positioned about and extend away from a reference circle RC concentric with the connection apertures  146 ′. In some embodiments, the open position apertures  148 ′ and the closed position apertures  152 ′ are aligned with one another to extend coaxially away from the nearby connection aperture  146 ′. Accordingly, the open position apertures  148 ′ and the closed position apertures  152 ′ are positioned 180 degrees apart from one another on the reference circle RC. Additionally or alternatively, the blade  102 ′ can defined by the various angular and axial relationships described above with respect to the blade  102  in the folding machete  100 . 
     In operation, a user may use the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′ with the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ in the open positions. In this configuration, the catches  350 ,  350 ′ hold the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ in place. When the user is done operating the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′, they may press all of the catches  350 ,  350 ′ toward the disengaged positions. The user may then apply a torque to one or both of the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ to rotate the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ toward the closed positions. The user may choose to apply the torque to only one of the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′, as the gears  270 ,  270 ′ cause the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ to rotate in unison. Once the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ are out of the open positions, the user may release the catches  350 ,  350 ′, which then engage the flat portions  122 ,  122 ′ of the main surface  120 ,  120 ′ of the blade  102 ,  102 ′. 
     Once the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ reach the intermediate position, the biasing members  280 ,  280 ′ rotate the catches  350 ,  350 ′ into the engaged positions, forcing the protrusions  258 ,  258 ′ into the intermediate position apertures  150 ,  150 ′. As shown in  FIGS. 7 and 32 , the intermediate position apertures  150 ,  150 ′ are closer to the closed position apertures  152 ,  152 ′ than the open position apertures  148 ,  148 ′. Accordingly, the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ are closer to the closed position than to the open position when in the intermediate position. The intermediate position facilitates stopping the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ near the closed position, providing the user with an opportunity to readjust their grip on the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and/or the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′. The intermediate position prevents the user from accidentally pinching their fingers between the blade  102 ,  102 ′ and the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ or the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′. 
     To move from the intermediate position to the closed positions, the user may again press all of the catches  350 ,  350 ′ toward the disengaged positions. The user may then apply a torque to one or both of the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ to rotate the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ toward the closed positions. Once the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ are out of the intermediate positions, the user may release the catches  350 ,  350 ′, which then engage the flat portions  122 ,  122 ′ of the main surface  120 ,  120 ′ of the blade  102 ,  102 ′. Once the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ reach the closed positions, the biasing members  280 ,  280 ′ rotate the catches  350 ,  350 ′ into the engaged positions, forcing the protrusions  258 ,  258 ′ into the closed position apertures  152 ,  152 ′, holding the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ in the closed positions. To again reach the open position, the user may complete this process again in reverse order. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1, 5, 6, 23, 24, 26, and 35A-37B , the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′ further includes a locking member, shown as latch  400 ,  400 ′. The latch  400 ,  400 ′ defines an aperture, shown as pin aperture  402 ,  402 ′. The pin aperture  402 ,  402 ′ is configured to receive the pivot pin  226 ,  226 ′, thereby pivotably coupling the latch  400 ,  400 ′ to the frame  200 ,  200 ′. The latch  400 ,  400 ′ is received within the slots  108 ,  108 ′ of the top handle  104 ,  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ,  106 ′ near the distal end portions  112 ,  112 ′. The latch  400 ,  400 ′ is configured to rotate about an axis of rotation  404 ,  404 ′ relative to the frame  200 ,  200 ′ that extends laterally. The latch  400 ,  400 ′ extends away from the axis of rotation  404 ,  404 ′ about an axis of extension  406 ,  406 ′. The axis of extension  406 ,  406 ′ extends perpendicular to the axis of rotation  404 ,  404 ′. A first surface of the latch  400 ,  400 ′, shown as first side  408 ,  408 ′, extends on a first side of the axis of extension  406 ,  406 ′, and a second surface of the latch  400 ,  400 ′, shown as second side  410 ,  410 ′, extends on an opposite side of the axis of extension  406 ,  406 ′. 
     In some embodiments, the latch  400  defines a first recess, groove, notch, or slot, shown as open position groove  420 . The open position groove  420  extends toward the axis of extension  406  from the first side  408  (e.g., extends laterally outward from the axis of extension  406 ). The open position groove  420  has a first section  422  that is nearest the first side  408  (e.g., defines the opening to the open position groove  420 ) and a second section  424  that is positioned farther from the first side  408 . Accordingly, the first section  422  is positioned between the first side  408  and the second section  424 . The first section  422  has a first width, and the second section  424  has a second width greater than the first width. The first width is less than the thickness (e.g., diameter) of the latch pin  230 . 
     The latch  400  can define a second recess, groove, notch, or slot, shown as closed position groove  430 . The closed position groove  430  extends toward the axis of extension  406  from the second side  410  (e.g., extends laterally outward from the axis of extension  406 ). The closed position groove  430  has a first section  432  that is nearest the second side  410  (e.g., defines the opening to the closed position groove  430 ) and a second section  434  that is positioned farther from the second side  410 . Accordingly, the first section  432  is positioned between the second side  410  and the second section  434 . As such, the open position groove  420  and the closed position groove  430  extend in substantially opposite directions. The first section  432  has a third width, and the second section  424  has a fourth width greater than the third width. The third width is less than the thickness (e.g., diameter) of the latch pin  230 . The first width may be substantially equal to the third width, and the second width may be substantially equal to the fourth width. 
     The open position groove  420  can be positioned a first distance away from the axis of rotation  404 . The closed position groove  430  is positioned a second distance away from the axis of rotation  404 . When the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106  are in the open position, as shown in  FIG. 24 , the pivot pin  226  and the latch pin  230  are spaced apart by the first distance such that the latch  400  can be rotated to receive the latch pin  230  within the open position groove  420 . When the open position groove  420  receives the latch pin  230 , the latch  400  prevents the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106  from moving out of the open position. When the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106  are in the closed position, the pivot pin  226  and the latch pin  230  are spaced apart by the second distance such that the latch  400  can be rotated to receive the latch pin  230  within the closed position groove  430 . When the closed position groove  430  receives the latch pin  230 , the latch  400  prevents the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106  from moving out of the closed position. Accordingly, the latch  400  may be used with or without the catches  350  to hold the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106  in the desired position. 
     Because the first section  422  and the first section  432  are narrower than the latch pin  230 , the first section  422  and the first section  432  interfere with the latch pin  230  as the latch pin  230  is moved into or out of the open position groove  420  or the closed position groove  430 . Accordingly, to enter the second section  424  or the second section  434 , the latch pin  230  deforms the latch  400 . The latch  400  may be made from a material that elastically deforms under such loading (e.g., plastic, etc.). As such, the reduced width of the first section  422  and the first section  432  ensure that the latch pin  230  has a “snap fit” into the open position groove  420  or the closed position groove  430 . This provides resistance to entering and exiting the open position groove  420  or the closed position groove  430 , preventing the latch  400  from accidentally becoming engaged or disengaged. 
     Alternatively, the latch  400 ′ can have a locking pin design that selectively engages the bottom handle  106 ′. The latch  400 ′ can have a series of grooves  436 ′ formed into the first side  408 ′ and second side  410 ′ of the latch  400 ′. The grooves  436 ′ can extend partially or entirely through the latch  400 ′, and can be sized to receive fasteners  222 ′. The grooves  436 ′ formed in the first side  408 ′ of the latch  400 ′ can face away from the grooves  436 ′ formed in the second side  410 ′ of the latch  400 ′. The latch  400 ′ can further define a groove wall  438 ′ positioned axially between each groove  436 ′. In some embodiments, the latch  400 ′ is formed by a sandwich assembly of latch bodies. Two external bodies  440 ′ surround an internal body  442 ′ having a different profile than the external bodies  440 ′. The internal body  442 ′ may not include grooves  436 ′, and can extend across each groove  436 ′ to define the groove walls  438 ′. In some embodiments, the external bodies  440 ′ are formed of a different material than the internal body  442 ′. For example, the internal body  442 ′ may be formed from metal, while the external bodies  440 ′ can be formed of a polymeric or, more specifically, an elastomeric material like rubber. 
     The latch  400 ′ further defines a locking pin aperture  444 ′. The locking pin aperture  444 ′ is positioned opposite the pin aperture  402 ′ and can extend entirely through the latch  400 ′ (e.g., through each of the latch bodies  440 ′,  442 ′). The locking pin aperture  444 ′ is sized to receive and secure a locking pin  446 ′. The locking pin  446 ′ can form an interference fit with the locking pin aperture  444 ′ and can be positioned within the locking pin aperture  444 ′ to extend axially outward beyond the external bodies  440 ′ equally in both directions. 
     The locking pin  446 ′ can engage and interact with different portions of the bottom handle  106 ′ to secure the top handle  104 ′ and the bottom handle  106 ′ to one another. In the closed position illustrated in  FIGS. 35A-35B , the latch rotates into selective engagement with a hook-and-spring locking mechanism  448 ′. Hooks  450 ′ extend away from the distal end portion  112 ′ of the handle  106 ′, and define a gap  452 ′ that can receive a portion of the latch  400 ′. In some examples, the hooks  450 ′ are formed integrally with each frame  212 ′,  214 ′ of the bottom handle frame  210 ′. The hooks  450 ′ define a concave surface  454 ′ that can be sized to receive and secure the locking pin  446 ′. In some embodiments, the concave surface  454 ′ includes a peak  456 ′ formed at an outermost edge of each hook  450 ′. A spring bar  458 ′ can be formed integrally with the bottom handle frame  210 ′ as well. The spring bar  458 ′ cantilevers outward from the frame  210 ′, and includes a downward-extending projection  460 ′. The downward extending projection  460 ′ can contact and secure the locking pin  446 ′ into the hook-and-spring locking mechanism  448 ′. When the latch  400 ′ is swung to a closed position, the locking pin  446 ′ contacts the peak  456 ′ and the projection  460 ′, urging the hooks  450 ′ downward and urging the spring bar  458 ′ upward. The resilience of the hooks  450 ′ and the spring bar  458 ′ allow limited rotation relative to the frame  210 ′, which allows the locking pin  446 ′ to pass beyond the peak  456 ′ and projection  458 ′, where it can be received and secured upon the concave surfaces  454 ′ of each hook  450 ′. Simultaneously, the grooves  436 ′ receive fasteners  222 ′ extending through each frame  200 ′,  210 ′. The hooks  450 ′ and spring bar  458 ′ attempt to return to rest positions, and engage the locking pin  446 ′ to further secure the locking pin  446 ′ within the hook-and-spring locking mechanism  448 ′ because the gap between the protrusion  460 ′ and the concave surface  454 ′ is smaller than a diameter defining the locking pin  446 ′. Rotation in the opposite direction can be used to unlock the latch  400 ′ from the hook-and-spring locking mechanism  448 ′. 
     The latch  400 ′ can lock the handles  104 ′,  106 ′ in the open position as well. As depicted in  FIGS. 36A-36B , the latch  400 ′ can engage the bottom handle frame  210 ′, opposite the hook-and-spring locking mechanism  448 ′. For example, concave locking surfaces  462 ′ can be formed in each plate  212 ′,  214 ′. The locking surfaces  462 ′ can include multiple inflection points and can be sized to receive and secure the locking pin  446 ′, which then prevents rotation between the two handles  104 ′,  106 ′. To lock the handles  104 ′,  106 ′ in the open position, the latch  400 ′ is rotated from the top handle  104 ′ toward the bottom handle  106 ′. As the latch  400 ′ rotates toward the handle  106 ′, the locking pin  446 ′ initially engages an entrance peak  464 ′ formed in the locking surface  462 ′. Additional rotational force allows the latch  400 ′, handle  106 ′, or a combination of the two components to flex slightly, allowing passage of the locking pin  446 ′ beyond the entrance peak  464 ′. Continued rotation of the latch  400 ′ allows the locking pin  446 ′ to rotate into engagement with the locking surface  462 ′, which can be defined by a radius similar to that of the locking pin  446 ′. When the locking pin  446 ′ rotates into engagement with the locking surface  462 ′, the grooves  436 ′ each rotate into engagement with fasteners  222 ′ extending inward from the frames  200 ′,  210 ′. Rotational force in the opposite direction can swing the latch  400 ′ and the locking pin  446 ′ outward, where the handle  106 ′ and/or the latch  400 ′ flex until the locking pin  446 ′ has advanced beyond the entrance peak  464 ′, when the latch  400 ′ can swing freely. 
     In some embodiments, the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′ is a machete having dimensions that facilitate use as a machete. As shown in  FIG. 3 , with the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106  in the open positions, a distance D 1  is defined between the latch  400  and the ends of the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106  opposite the latch  400 , a distance D 2  is defined between the ends of the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106  opposite the latch  400  and the tip of the blade  102 , and an overall length of the folding machete  100  is defined as a distance D 3 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , with the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106  in the closed positions, an overall length of the folding machete  100  is defined as a distance D 4 . In one embodiment, the distance D 1  is approximately 8.4 inches, the distance D 2  is approximately 7.0 inches, the distance D 3  is approximately 15.4 inches, and the distance D 4  is approximately 9 inches. In other embodiments, these dimensions may vary. By way of example, the distance D 2  may be 5 inches, 6 inches, 8 inches, or more. Similar dimensional relationships can be used in the folding machete  100 ′. 
     Various modifications of the folding machete  100 ,  100 ′ are contemplated. In one alternative embodiment, the top handle  104  and the latch  400  are omitted, and solely the bottom handle  106  is used to manipulate the folding machete  100 . In such an embodiment, the catches  350  stop the bottom handle  106  from moving inadvertently. In other alternative embodiments, one or more of the catches  350  are omitted. With only one catch  350 , the gears  270  prevent the handle without the catch from moving inadvertently. With no catches  350 , the latch  400  prevents the top handle  104  and the bottom handle  106  from moving out of the closed position or the open position inadvertently. In another alternative embodiment, the frame  200  and the top scales  300  are integrally formed as a single body, and the frame  210  and the bottom scales  302  are integrally formed as a single body. 
     The construction and arrangement of the apparatus, systems and methods as shown in the various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.). For example, some elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed from multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. 
     As utilized herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially”, and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges or geometric relationships provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the invention as recited in the appended claims