10 Best Chinese Cleavers 2025 in the United States

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.

The Shun Classic 7" Cleaver is a top-quality kitchen tool designed specifically for handling large vegetables, making it an excellent choice for home cooks and culinary enthusiasts. Its blade is made from VG-MAX steel with 68 layers of Damascus stainless steel cladding, giving it superior sharpness and durability. This sharpness is coupled with a precise 16-degree edge, which is ideal for slicing and dicing with ease. The cleaver's Pakkawood handle is thoughtfully designed for comfort, providing a secure grip for both right and left-handed users.

One significant strength of this cleaver is its exceptional craftsmanship, as each knife is handcrafted in Japan, ensuring high-quality construction and attention to detail. Additionally, Shun offers free sharpening and honing services, which adds great value, helping to maintain the blade's performance over time.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The weight of 13.6 ounces may feel a bit heavy for some users, especially those new to using a cleaver. Also, while the price point reflects its quality, it may be considered steep for casual cooks or those on a budget. The blade length is 7 inches, which is versatile, but it might not be suitable for very large cuts or heavier tasks compared to larger cleavers.

The Shun Classic 7" Cleaver is an outstanding choice for anyone looking to elevate their vegetable preparation game, particularly if they appreciate fine craftsmanship and are willing to invest in a durable and efficient kitchen tool. It is best suited for serious cooks or those who frequently work with large vegetables, while casual users might find it on the higher end of the price spectrum.

The Wüsthof Classic 6-inch cleaver is a solid choice for anyone needing a versatile kitchen tool capable of chopping, slicing, and dicing. Made from high carbon stainless steel, its blade is forged from a single piece of metal, which means it’s very durable and resists rust and dulling well. With a 6-inch length and a plain edge, it strikes a good balance between control and power for everyday cooking tasks.

The handle is made from alloy and stainless steel with a full tang and triple rivets, offering a comfortable and secure grip, which is important when using a heavier cleaver. Weighing about 1 pound (460 grams), it’s on the lighter side for a cleaver, making it easier to handle for extended use without fatigue. However, it is not dishwasher safe, so it requires hand washing to maintain its quality.

This cleaver is not a traditional Chinese cleaver designed specifically for heavy bone chopping, but its sharpness and edge retention make it great for general kitchen prep, including vegetables and boneless meats. Its solid construction and lifetime warranty reflect Wüsthof’s long-standing reputation for quality. The main drawback might be the price point, as Wüsthof knives tend to be an investment, but for those wanting a dependable, long-lasting cleaver in their kitchen, this product fits well.