The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·10157·Announced 2010-03-09

Gerber Recalls Gator Machetes Due to Laceration Hazard

Gerber is recalling Gator Machetes and Machetes Jr. with original handles because the saw side can stick in wood, causing users to slip and cut themselves.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product (laceration) where injury has been reported (five incidents requiring stitches), but no fatalities or severe injuries are noted, fitting the 'High' severity criteria.

Plain-English summary

Gerber Legendary Blades is recalling approximately 149,000 Gator Machetes and 6,000 Gator Machetes Jr. with the original handle. The recall does not include machetes with a modified handle featuring an extended hand guard. The products were sold at retail stores nationwide, including The Sportsman's Guide, Dick's Sporting Goods, and Bass Pro Shops, as well as online, from March 2007 through February 2010 for between $16 and $25.

The saw side of the machete can stick in wood during use. If a user's hand slips off the handle and slides forward across the blade, it poses a laceration hazard. Gerber has received five reports of individuals cutting themselves while using the Gator Machete, all of whom required stitches. There are no reported injuries associated with the Gator Machete Jr.

Consumers should stop using the recalled machetes immediately and contact Gerber to receive instructions on how to return the machete for a free replacement. For more information, contact Gerber Legendary Blades toll-free at (877) 314-9130 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT, Monday through Friday, or visit www.gerbergear.com.

The recalled product

Product
Gerber® Gator® Machete and Gator® Machete Jr.
Manufacturer
Gerber Legendary Blades, of Portland, Ore., a division of Fiskars Brands Inc., of Madison, Wis.
Category
Consumer Product — Knives/Cutters/Blades
Hazard
Affected units
149,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

Related recalls

Same manufacturer · Gerber Legendary Blades, of Portland, Ore., a division of Fiskars Brands Inc., of Madison, Wis.

See all →

Same hazard · laceration

See all →