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10 Best Cleaver Knives 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

KYOKU Vegetable Cleaver Knife - 7" - Shogun Series - Japanese VG10 Steel Core Forged Damascus Blade - with Sheath & Case

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,144
Blade Material
Handle Material
Weight

Most important from
3643 reviews

Blade Material
The Damascus steel is subtle but beautiful and tasteful.
Handle Material
Superb handle design fits large hands perfectly.
Weight
Weighty and stout in the hand, screams quality construction.
Edge Type
Incredibly sharp and cuts through just about anything, including tough avocado pits with ease.

The KYOKU Vegetable Cleaver Knife from the Shogun Series is a 7-inch blade crafted with VG10 Japanese Damascus steel. This steel is known for its strength, sharpness, and edge retention, making it a highly efficient tool for slicing vegetables and meat. The blade's HRC 58-60 hardness indicates it is durable and maintains its sharp edge over time.

The ergonomic and well-balanced design of the knife helps reduce fatigue and discomfort during extended use, which is beneficial for both professional chefs and home cooks. Additionally, the knife includes a protective sheath and case to keep it secure and maintain its condition when not in use. The handle, made from triple-riveted G10 material, is resistant to heat, cold, and moisture, enhancing its longevity and providing a comfortable grip.

However, one drawback is that it is not dishwasher safe, requiring careful hand washing to maintain its quality. Also, the knife's weight at 0.35 ounces may seem light for a cleaver, which could affect its performance in heavy-duty chopping tasks. Nevertheless, the knife's sharpness and construction quality make it a strong contender for those in need of a reliable vegetable cleaver.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,144
Blade Material
Handle Material
Weight

Most important from
3643 reviews

Blade Material
The Damascus steel is subtle but beautiful and tasteful.
Handle Material
Superb handle design fits large hands perfectly.
Weight
Weighty and stout in the hand, screams quality construction.
Edge Type
Incredibly sharp and cuts through just about anything, including tough avocado pits with ease.

Buying Guide for the Best Cleaver Knives

Choosing the right cleaver knife can make a significant difference in your kitchen experience. Cleaver knives are versatile tools used for chopping through bones, slicing meats, and even dicing vegetables. To find the best cleaver knife for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they impact performance. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting a cleaver knife.
Blade MaterialThe blade material of a cleaver knife determines its durability, sharpness, and ease of maintenance. Common materials include stainless steel, high-carbon steel, and Damascus steel. Stainless steel is resistant to rust and easy to maintain, making it a good choice for everyday use. High-carbon steel is known for its sharpness and edge retention but requires more care to prevent rust. Damascus steel offers a combination of sharpness, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Choose a blade material based on your preference for maintenance and performance.
Blade SizeThe size of the blade affects the knife's versatility and ease of use. Cleaver blades typically range from 6 to 12 inches. Smaller blades (6-8 inches) are easier to handle and more suitable for precise tasks like chopping vegetables or slicing boneless meat. Larger blades (9-12 inches) provide more power and are better for heavy-duty tasks like cutting through bones. Consider the types of tasks you'll be performing most often to determine the right blade size for you.
Blade ThicknessBlade thickness influences the knife's strength and cutting ability. Thicker blades (4-6 mm) are more robust and can handle tougher tasks like breaking down large cuts of meat and bones. Thinner blades (2-3 mm) are lighter and more agile, making them ideal for slicing and dicing. If you need a cleaver for heavy-duty tasks, opt for a thicker blade. For more delicate work, a thinner blade will be more suitable.
Handle MaterialThe handle material affects the knife's comfort, grip, and durability. Common handle materials include wood, plastic, and composite. Wooden handles offer a traditional look and feel but may require more maintenance to prevent cracking. Plastic handles are durable, easy to clean, and often have a textured grip for better control. Composite handles combine the benefits of both wood and plastic, providing durability and a comfortable grip. Choose a handle material that feels comfortable in your hand and suits your maintenance preferences.
WeightThe weight of a cleaver knife impacts its balance and ease of use. Heavier cleavers provide more power for cutting through bones and tough materials, but they can be tiring to use for extended periods. Lighter cleavers are easier to maneuver and more suitable for tasks that require precision. Consider your strength and the types of tasks you'll be performing to determine the right weight for your cleaver knife.
Edge TypeThe edge type of a cleaver knife affects its cutting performance and maintenance. Straight edges are common and provide a clean cut, making them suitable for general use. Granton edges have small dimples along the blade that reduce friction and prevent food from sticking, which is useful for slicing. Serrated edges are less common in cleavers but can be helpful for cutting through tough materials. Choose an edge type based on the tasks you'll be performing and your preference for maintenance.

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