10 Best Chinese Cleavers 2025 in the United States

The HOSHANHO Cleaver Knife is designed to be a versatile tool for both home cooks and professionals, making it a solid contender in the category of Chinese cleavers. One of its standout features is the blade, made from Japanese AUS-10 high carbon stainless steel, which offers excellent sharpness and durability. With a sharp edge angle of 15° on each side, it allows for clean cuts, whether you're slicing vegetables or tackling tougher meats. The blade's hardness of 58+2 HRC ensures that it maintains its sharpness over time, which can be especially beneficial for those who cook frequently.

Its ergonomic handle, crafted from Pakkawood, is another highlight. It provides a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use, which is appreciated by both amateur cooks and professional chefs alike. The knife has a blade thickness of 2.3mm, making it robust enough for heavy-duty tasks while remaining nimble for delicate preparations.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. While the knife excels in functionality, it is not dishwasher safe, which may be inconvenient for some users looking for easy maintenance. Hand washing and proper care are essential to keep the knife in optimal condition, which might be a hassle for those with busy kitchens. Additionally, its 7-inch blade length may not be ideal for everyone. Some users might prefer a longer or shorter cleaver depending on their cooking style and needs.

The Dalstrong 9" Chinese Cleaver Knife from the Gladiator Series is a well-crafted kitchen tool designed for versatility, making it suitable for both vegetable chopping and cutting boneless meats. Its blade is made from high-carbon 7CR17MOV steel, providing a strong and sharp edge ideal for precise cuts. With a thickness that promotes efficient push cuts, it excels in dicing, mincing, and chopping tasks. The ergonomic G-10 handle adds comfort and control, enhancing user experience during prolonged use.

One of the standout features is the knife's design, which combines functionality with an aesthetic appeal. The full-tang construction ensures durability, while the NSF certification reassures users about hygiene standards. The included saya adds practicality for storage or travel, making it a thoughtful gift option.

It's important to note that this knife is not dishwasher safe, which might be a drawback for those seeking low-maintenance tools. Weighing just 0.353 ounces, it might feel light to some users who prefer a heftier blade for more power in their cuts. Additionally, its broad blade design, while excellent for transferring food, may not suit everyone's chopping style, especially for those accustomed to narrower blades.

The Dalstrong Meat Cleaver Knife from the Shogun Series ELITE is a high-quality kitchen tool designed for versatility and durability. This cleaver features a 7-inch blade made from AUS-10V Japanese super steel, which boasts a Rockwell hardness of 62+, ensuring exceptional edge retention and sharpness. The blade is also vacuum-sealed and nitrogen-cooled for enhanced hardness, flexibility, and corrosion resistance. With 66 layers of high-carbon stainless steel, the blade is incredibly strong and durable, while the hammered finish reduces surface resistance and adds non-stick properties, making cutting smoother and easier. The blade is hand-finished to a mirror polish at an 8-12° angle per side using the traditional Honbazuke method, ensuring a razor-sharp edge suitable for cutting fish, boneless meats, vegetables, and fruits.

The handle is made from military-grade Ultra-G-10 material, offering excellent durability and comfort. It is ergonomically designed for control and agility, and the full tang construction, along with triple rivets, provides superb robustness. As a plain edge cleaver, it is best suited for slicing and chopping rather than tasks that require serration.

This knife is a great fit for those looking for a versatile and durable kitchen tool, especially if they appreciate high craftsmanship and performance. It also makes an excellent gift due to its impressive design and lifetime durability.