I was skeptical when I first saw it. It does appear cheaply made. And as another reviewer said "When I first purchased this five-dollar prop machete, I was for sure it would be broken within a few days, and I would be cleaning "blood" off the carpet." I too am still timid. Have only played with it a few times. But if it ever breaks I'll be back to complain  :)
Until then, it's fun! My 10 year old got such a kick out of it. It's sure to be a hit at his zombie themed bday party!