I've never been a fan of big knives either. The only one I've ever bought is a 9" fillet knife. It's useful when camping, but I don't bring it anymore. I have a tiny pocket knife I bring.

I did become fascinated with how machetes were used in Mexico and Belize. They cut brush, cinder block, hammered nails, and more with them.

I bought one and tried hacking my way through some thick bramble here but it just bent it over. Now it hangs on the wall in my garage.

I have watched hunters field dress deer with big knives made just for that and used properly they are a very good tool for the purpose.