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Best Cleaver Knife of 2022: Top-rated and Buying Guides

If you are looking for a knife suitable for chopping thick bones. Look no further, we have the top picks here. Choose for yourself the best cleaver knives and everything will become much simpler. In this article, Battersby will introduce you to the top 10 of the best cleavers in 2022.

Contents

In-depth Reviews of the Best Cleaver Knife in 2022

1. Purple Dragon Boning Knife – Best for Versatile Use

Product highlights

The first thing you should notice is this is a hand forged knife from high manganese steel and high carbon steel. But high carbon steel is better able to maintain sharp edges than stainless steel. 

Our cleavers rockwell hardness are as high as 60-62HRC. It will assist you to make every perfect cut. Reasonable maintenance after each use, it will prolong the service life.

Full-Tang design, anti-slip ridge design on the back. Large finger hole provides a solid grip. The bottle opener design on the front part makes the knife unique and practical at the same time. Letting it become your perfect BBQ & Beer knife.

Boning Knife Hand Forged Chef Knife with Leather Sheath Gift Box Bottle Opener Design Sharp Meat Butcher Cleaver Kitchen Knife for Kitchen Outdoor BBQ Camping

Amazon.com
as of April 18, 2024 10:03 am

Pros

  • Ultra sharp blade edge.
  • Heavy duty cleaver.
  • High carbon steel blade.
  • Leather packaging.
  • Multifunctional.

Cons

  • It is not stain resistant.

Bottom line

This Boning cleaver can easily handle your daily kitchen tasks such as mincing and slicing fruits, vegetables and several types of meat including fish, stove and beef. 

As a paring knife, it is also suitable for use. It is definitely your practical assistant whether you are indoors or outdoors!

2. Utopia Kitchen Cleaver Knife – Best Value for Money

Product highlights

This 7 inch meat slicer has the lowest price on the market today but has some useful features. It can pass like an expensive knife. If you are looking for a meat slicer that fits your budget and can still cut tough bones and thick meat. This knife is the best choice.

This best meat cleaver has a sharp stainless steel blade that can cut accurately and easily. It is durable and can last longer even after using it for a long time. The edge of the knife has a longer sustain, which means it stays sharp longer than most blades.

The blade has some heaviness to it, suitable for cutting meat and bones. This is one of the advantages of Utopia among competitors in the same price range. Its razor sharp edge can handle the job. This knife is also dishwasher safe but should be washed by hand to maintain quality.

Utopia Kitchen 7 Inches Cleaver Knife Chopper Butcher Knife Stainless Steel for Home Kitchen and Restaurant

Amazon.com
as of April 18, 2024 10:03 am

Pros

  • The blade is sharp and provides precision.
  • Balanced weight.
  • It is easy to handle even for small-handed people.
  • Can handle all cuts of meat and vegetables.
  • Reasonable price.

Cons

  • Comes with poor packaging.

Bottom line

The weight is well proportioned so it is suitable for use even by petite women. With a combination of stainless steel and plastic handle for a good grip. It is also easy to maneuver, as it is very comfortable to use.

Related: Kiridashi Knife

3. Mueller Meat Cleaver Knife – Best for Cutting Through Bone

Product highlights

To your kitchen knife set, Mueller’s 7-inch butcher knife is the perfect companion. Mueller Australia has been able to set a number of milestones in the production of slicing knives and knives. Making it one of the best meat slicer brands and an excellent partner in the cooking sector.

With this Mueller meat slicer, you don’t need to worry about getting around bones. You can go straight through it. Meat knives are more compact and often heavier than butcher knives, so they can easily cut through bones. Just make sure your cutting board is as heavy as this knife.

Mueller 7-inch Meat Cleaver Knife, Stainless Steel Professional Butcher Chopper, Stainless Steel Handle, Heavy Duty Blade for Home Kitchen and Restaurant

Amazon.com
as of April 18, 2024 10:03 am

Pros

  • Strong and solid build quality.
  • Sharp blades for precious and perfect cuts.
  • Dishwasher safe.
  • Impressive and handy design.
  • Perfect for meat and bone.

Cons

  • Blade will quickly tarnish after a while.

Bottom line

This high quality cleaner is designed with the needs of the user in mind. This knife has a one-piece design that puts an end to the worry of the handle falling off. The knife is also made of premium stainless steel that is resistant to rust and scratches. 

This makes it stay in top condition longer. Other impressive features included in this model are the 3.0mm guard blade that stays sharp for longer and the refined design that gives you a comfortable grip and easy handling.

4. GRANDKNIFE Meat Cleaver – Best for Grinding Vegetables

Product highlights

The Chinese Chef Knife is a multi-functional kitchen knife. It’s simple to handle your daily kitchen tasks like grinding vegetables or meat. Even cheese and so on. Easy re-sharpening, cleaning and maintenance. It really is an all-round cooking knife!

The handle of the cleaver knife is made from Pakkawood. This is a material known for its comfort, strength and stability. In terms of color, different colors complement each other. Giving the knife a very strong visual impulse and perception ability.

Besides, it offers excellent comfort and a non-slip grip to minimize finger fatigue, numbness or pain. Very suitable for those who often cook or like to be in the kitchen.

Cleaver Knife, GRANDKNIFE 7 inch Meat Cleaver, High Carbon German Stainless Steel Kitchen Knife, Professional Chef Knife for Home, Restaurant

Amazon.com
as of April 18, 2024 10:03 am

Pros

  • Pakkawood ergonomic handle.
  • High quality meat cleaver.
  • Anti-slip.
  • Stain resistant.
  • German stainless steel.

Cons

  • It does not work well with boning.

Bottom line

The Chinese knife has a wide blade that keeps the cook’s fingers away from the cutting surface. The hammer-shaped blade surface minimizes the chance of food sticking to the blade. Making it easier to slice food. Sharpness is further enhanced using the latest technology.

5. KITORY Chinese Knife Set – Best for Cleaver Knife Set

Product highlights

These are probably the best looking knives in the test group. With a continuity in style through the 5 blades included in the set. In addition to beauty, heavy duty blades can cost a lot. 

The carbon content and metallurgical technology are really big costs. The end result is very resilient blades that are lighter and more flexible than Western blades. These knives retain their edge. And if necessary Kitory will sharpen them for you as long as you own them.

The package includes one meat cleaver for slicing meat, chopping bones and vegetables. A vegetable cutter can be used to cut vegetables and fruits. Nakiri knife is used for slicing and dicing vegetables. Multi-function scissors and a large capacity black knife holder that will make your kitchen more neat and beautiful.

KITORY Chinese Knife Set 5-Piece Meat Cleaver/Nakiri Knife/Chinese Chef's Knife/Multi-purpose Shears/Universal Block Practical Kitchen Knife German Steel with Ergonomic Handle for Home&Restaurant&Farm

Amazon.com
as of April 18, 2024 10:03 am

Pros

  • Lightweight design.
  • Flexible.
  • Longer than the average blade.
  • Durable.
  • German stainless steel material.

Cons

  • The finishing can be better.

Bottom line

The stainless steel blade design, which cuts longer. Combined with the thick Pakkawood handle, makes this knife both user-friendly and durable. 

While it must be hand washing, it is a low-maintenance cleaver that holds the edge well. Meaning you won’t need to sharpen it as often. It’s also a great choice for budget-conscious cooks looking for a high-quality, lightweight razor that’s sturdy and affordable.

6. Freelander Hand Forged Meat Cleaver – Best for Forged Meat Cleaver

Product highlights

The sturdy chef’s knife is made of special quality 5Cr15Mov high carbon steel and reaches a hardness of 58 HRC. It works better to maintain sharp edges than regular stainless steel. The red sandalwood handle is anti-slip. The curved design is perfect for your hand to hold.

Each hand-polished 16-degree edge makes the blade extremely sharp and helps you cut smoothly with ease. Seamless full tang design prevents the blade from falling off easily. The blade is hand-forged with a unique 45-degree angle at the top and it undergoes multi-channel fusion processes for smooth sharpening and durability.

Hand Forged Meat Cleaver 6.3 Inch Kitchen Chef Knife with Leather Sheath and Gift Box Outdoor Butcher Knife Hammered Chopper Boning Knife for Home, Camping, BBQ (Brown)

Amazon.com
as of April 18, 2024 10:03 am

Pros

  • Wooden handle.
  • Easy to sharpen.
  • Made from high carbon German steel.
  • Reasonable price.
  • Sharp razor cutting edge.

Cons

  • It needs frequent hand washing.

Bottom line

The cutter is equipped with a practical soft leather sheath. It can protect the blade well and you can wear a belt to easily carry it when camping outdoors. With a stylish leather case and elegant box. This is a great gift for your lover, parents, friends, and cooking enthusiasts.

View more: Kamikoto Knives Review

7. Dexter Russell S5288 Cleaver – Best for Heavy Duty Cleaver

Product highlights

I have many reasons why I put this in this best cleaver knife list. If you are looking for a cutter that has a reputation for this when it comes to ingenious design and craftsmanship. This is the right meat cleaver for you.

This product is definitely one of the good meat slicers made by Dexter-Russell. In fact, this is a destroyer! It is capable of penetrating thick meat without any problem. It can easily chop even the stiffest joints.

Heavy duty is a fitting designation for this 2.5-pound tough cutter that can be used by professionals and home users alike. The clear with a Rosewood handle adds style to the décor of any kitchen. Knives are reasonably priced.

The Dexter-Russell 8 inch Heavy-Duty Cleaver Knife is designed to work with ease in bone breaking and other kitchen cutting tasks that are difficult with conventional knives.

The 8-inch blade length is crafted from high carbon steel that is resistant to stains. Furthermore, the blade has a flat tip and razor sharp edges.

Dexter-Russell 8" Stainless Heavy Duty Cleaver, S5288, TRADITIONAL Series

4 new from $43.74
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of April 18, 2024 10:03 am

Pros

  • Can handle large cutting tasks.
  • Convenient storage of knives when not in use.
  • Very sharp and strong blades.
  • Rosewood handle.
  • High carbon stainless steel blade.

Cons

  • Too big for small handed people.

Bottom line

In addition to the well-considered ergonomic handling. The Rosewood handle is well-polished and well-balanced in the hand to provide the control needed to work with it. 

Furthermore, Dexter Russell S5288 is fixed on the blade by three brass studs to increase the service life. Besides, it comes with a hanging hole on the blade.

8. SHI BA ZI ZUO F208 Kitchen Cleavers – Best for Durable Use

Product highlights

When it comes to hands-on vegetable preparation. A knife with a straight and extremely sharp blade like this professional Chinese slicer SHI BA ZI ZUO is the best choice for you to choose. This Chinese cleaver is made of three layers of compound steel. Ensuring hardness and resilience for everyday use.

Along with its sharpness, this cleaver has double beveled corners. Allowing it to make ultra-thin cuts through a variety of vegetables and fruits. 

Since its edge is coated with a non-stick coating. Food is unlikely to stick to your blade, making slicing and handling easier.

SHI BA ZI ZUO 8-inch Kitchen Knife Professional Chef Knife Stainless Steel Vegetable Knife Safe Non-stick Coating Blade with Anti-slip Wooden Handle

Amazon.com
as of April 18, 2024 10:03 am

Pros

  • Good for all types of vegetables.
  • Multi-function for cutting, scraping and shredding.
  • Durable edge for the long haul.
  • Brings an organic and authentic feel to the kitchen.
  • Make a great gift for your beloved.

Cons

  • It’s a bit wide to perform simple tasks.

Bottom line

Besides, the meat cleavers are integrated with the user-friendly Rosewood handle. So you can grip comfortably and move smoothly at all times. While it’s not dishwasher safe. Hand washing and drying properly is just an easy one and tends to keep knives in top condition longer.

9. SKY LIGHT Cleaver Knife – Best for Full Tang Cleaver

Product highlights

SKY LIGHT cutters are top quality and affordable. With each knife made of premium, non-staining German steel. They are hand-polished by seasoned craftsmen and undergo hours of rigorous testing before reaching the customer.

The SKY LIGHT cutter is created with an ergonomic design for maximum comfort, perfect balance and easy handling. These cutters are precision tempered for added durability and also nitrogen cooled for increased hardness.

Another feature that sets it apart from the rest is the protective finger guard. Which protects your fingers from slipping to the blade when in use. This makes using the butcher knife more comfortable and safer.

Sharpness is also a positive point of this cleaver. It has a razor sharp edge with a 17 degree angle for a seamless and clean cut. The blade will be the sharpest when you buy the product and won’t dull quickly. It can cut every piece of meat perfectly.

Pros

  • Full tang Chinese cleavers.
  • Razor sharp edge retention.
  • Provides flexibility.
  • Ergonomically designed for safe and comfortable use.
  • Durable as it is made from high quality stainless steel.

Cons

  • It is fairly bulky and heavy.

Bottom line

The SKY LIGHT 7 Inch Chinese cleaver is the perfect candidate for a versatile cutting tool for both professional and home cooks. This cleaner’s premium blade has a 58 Rockwell hardness, making it strong, rust and stain resistant. This best meat cleaver is also extremely easy to change and boasts a super sharp 17 degree edge.

10. SHI BA ZI ZUO S2308_B Meat Cleaver – Best for Chopping Task

Product highlights

Are you ready to turn your ninja slashing skills into gear? This incredible Chinese cutter by Shi Ba Zi Zuo is the perfect meat cleaver to add to your kitchen arsenal. Whether you want to cook up some Chinese meat or you’re thinking of opening a butcher shop, this awesome cleaver can do it all!

This Chinese cutter has a strong blade and is 2.0-2.5mm thick. It also has a 30° smaller blade edge to make it as sharp as possible. It works faster when chopping and cutting in your kitchen prep time.

The full length shank is ideal for giving the knife a high degree of stability under extra weight. The handle is a well-polished rosewood, which is safe and comfortable to hold.

The cutter measures approximately 6.7 inches. In addition, the multifunction wide blade can cut garlic or tough meat.

Chinese Knife SHI BA ZI ZUO Vegetable Meat Knife 6.7-inch Stainless Steel Slicer Cleaver, Wooden Handle with Moderate Weight

Amazon.com
as of April 18, 2024 10:03 am

Pros

  • 25-30° blade angle for maximum sharpness.
  • Well-polished full-length tang handle.
  • Excellent at cutting meat, vegetables, fruits and more.
  • Razor sharp meat cleaver.
  • Full tang vegetable cleaver.
  • 6 inch meat cleaver.

Cons

  • Not to be used to cut bones.

Bottom line

In the end, this is a great cutter because of its versatility, design, and an affordable price tag. We highly recommend this for chopping tasks.

Buying Guides

best cleaver knife battersby 1

There are many types of meat cleavers

1. Definition of cleaver knife

The meat cleaver is a large knife. While its applications are limited, there are a few things you can’t do in the kitchen without it. It is absolutely essential for slaughter, especially when cutting through bones or large joints. 

The flat side of the blade is ideal for pounding veal or chicken breasts. The backbone is the only thing in the kitchen you can use to crack a coconut. Meat cleavers aren’t entirely necessary for the casual cook. But they’re sure to impress a friend looking through your knife drawer.

Chinese and Japanese style cutters are completely different from Western style cutters. The Chinese cleaver serves as the chef’s knife in the Chinese kitchen. Longer, smaller Japanese knives are used mainly for slicing vegetables. 

  • The forged high carbon stainless steel blade is very sturdy and holds sharp and durable edges.
  • Complete full tang construction ensures strength, rigidity and balance.
  • The molded rubber and impregnated wood handles are durable, hygienic and easy to grip.

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Razor sharp edge stainless steel meat cleavers

2. The blades

Rectangular in shape, cleavers are short, thick and heavy. It is usually no more than 15 or 16 centimeters long. Although the cutter is stub in use and function, its construction should be as refined as possible.

You should always choose cutters forged from a high carbon stainless steel billet. The blade should be heavy duty enough to transmit force through bones and joints. It is sharp enough to cut meat without damaging it. And hard enough to stay sharp with rough and heavy use.

Porcelain blades are extremely hard, extremely sharp. And it will hold a cutting edge for months or years. The downside to ceramic knives is that they are very brittle and can be quite expensive. Ceramic knives will crack or break if misused or dropped. They must be returned to the manufacturer to be sharpened.

best cleaver knife battersby 3

Full tang meat cleavers will have more grip 

3. The handle

The first thing to look for in a handle is a full case. As the core of the handle, tang is the part of the blade. You can usually see a full stripe running from the center of the handle to the hilt. Although sometimes they are completely covered in molded rubber or completely replaced by the main weight stainless steel handle. 

The full knife is sturdy, durable and well balanced. Avoid partial tang knives altogether as they are too heavy and will crack or break over time.

In our opinion, the best handles are made from molded rubber and wood impregnated with hard plastics (like Pakkawood and Staminawood). Because they are durable, hygienic and provide excellent grip. 

Plastic and stainless steel handles are also acceptable, but many cooks find them slippery, especially when wet. Traditional rosewood handles are still useful. But to prevent them from warping and cracking, they need careful attention and regular maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

best cleaver knife battersby 4

Carbon German stainless steel meat cleavers provide ultra sharp cutting edge

1. What is the usage of meat cleaver?

The meat slicer is a versatile tool that lets you tenderize, mince, slice, and even flake any meat you have in your kitchen. This is especially helpful when buying cuts of meat with the bones on.

2. What cleaver a Chinese chef uses?

The Chinese slicing knife, also known as a vegetable slicing knife or cai dao. It is a useful tool for slicing, dicing, and mincing both meat and vegetables. 

In Chinese culture, a single knife is traditionally used for all kitchen work. That’s why this knife can also be called a Chinese chef’s knife.

best cleaver knife

You can hand the full tang cleaver with this hole

3. Why does the meat cleaver have a hole?

Meat cutters have a hole in the blade so that butchers or chefs can hang them up. Because cutters tend to be very large and hard to fit in a drawer, knife holder, or pretty much anywhere else you store your kitchen knives. It allows you to conveniently hang it on a hook or nail somewhere safe without taking up much space.

4. What size meat slicer is best?

The meat cleaver has a blade length of 6-9 inches. The best cleavers are the 7-8 inch knife as this blade has a lot of versatility. It can cut through thick meat, bones and vegetables. It makes the cutter easy to use as you cut and mince. 

5. Why do Asians love meat cleavers?

They work so well, it leads to their popularity. As two others have pointed out the “Chinese cutter” is actually a knife rather than an ax like a butcher’s knife. Think of them like chef knives with very deep blades. 

Conclusion

That is a long post. Hopefully through this article, you can find the right cleaver for your needs. Choose a high carbon steel blade to get a sharp cutting edge. If you want a gift box, consider products that come with a leather case!

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