So... I just have to say Something about a certain person giving a certain 9 year old boy-child a dangerous weapon to have all for himself. I don't care that it was given to him in order to "help" him be better suited for a camping trip... or survival in a rain forest, for that matter.
Before you deem a young child prepared to weild a Foot-and-a-half long bladed instrument; perhaps you should speak to the Custodial parent of said child regarding this decision.
Perhaps the custodial parent would be a bit put off by the thought of her young son trying to cut wood or other random objects with such a dangerous weapon. Why would a machete be the first option for such excursions. Not that a child should have sole posession of something like a hatchet, either; but I think this might have been a better option for the given circumstances.
Also, when said custodial parent has other small, younger, and oh-so-curious children in the house; considerations for safety must be made regarding what is allowed to come into the home.
I am sure the custodial parent loves not being offered a choice in the matter regarding the giving of a dangerous weapon to her child. And I am sure said custodial parent adores the fact that in attempting to relieve the boy-child of this dangerous weapon, the boy deems that as a direct attack on themselves, as well as the non-custodial parent. Leaving one of them feeling a bit backed against a wall, so to speak.
I am so happy I don't have to deal with situations such as the above circumstance. ...Not ever...