Gerber Legendary Blades Recalls Machetes Due to Laceration Hazard

Recalled March 9, 2010 · CPSC recall 10157 · Gerber Legendary Blades

The Gator Machete with the original handle - Included in this recall

Close-up: Machete with the original handle - Included in this recall

Close-up: Machete with the modified handle (with extended hand guard) - NOT included in this recall

Hazard

The saw side of the machete can stick in wood during use, and if the user's hand slips off the handle and slides forward across the machete blade, this poses a laceration hazard.

Remedy

Consumers should stop using the recalled machetes immediately and contact Gerber to receive instructions on how to return the machete for a free replacement machete.

Units

About 149,000 Gator Machetes and 6,000 Gator Machetes Jr.

Incidents / injuries

Gerber has received five reports of individuals cutting themselves while using the Gator Machete, all of whom required stitches. Gerber has received no reports of injuries associated with use of the Gator Machete Jr.

Description

This recall involves the Gerber Gator Machete and Gator Machete Jr. with the original handle (see picture). The Gator Machete is approximately 25 1/2" long and the Machete Jr. is approximately 18 3/4" long. The blade is marked with the "Gerber" trademark. The Gator Machete and Machete Jr. with a modified handle (an extended hand guard) are not included in this recall (see picture). Consumers should visually inspect their machete to determine if it is included in this recall.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled machetes immediately and contact Gerber to receive instructions on how to return the machete for a free replacement machete.

Contact

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 the firm's Web site at www.gerbergear.com

Product

Gerber® Gator® Machete and Gator® Machete Jr.

Imported by

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

Retailers

Retail stores nationwide, including The Sportsman's Guide, Dick's Sporting Goods and Bass Pro Shops/American Rod & Gun, and through on-line stores from March 2007 through February 2010 for between $16 and $25.

Made in

China

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Official recall notice on cpsc.gov →