10 Best Meat Cleaver 2025 in the United States

The imarku Cleaver Knife is a versatile and well-crafted 7-inch meat cleaver that excels in handling various kitchen tasks like chopping, slicing, and boning. Made from high carbon stainless steel (SUS440A), it boasts impressive durability and sharpness, making it a reliable choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike. The blade’s 18° angle on both sides and its thin thickness of 2.3mm allow for precision cutting, and the wide design ensures that your fingers stay safe while you work.

One of the standout features is its ergonomic Pakkawood handle, which offers a comfortable grip and excellent maneuverability. It helps reduce slippage during use, enhancing safety and control, even for left-handed users. Weighing in at 13.1 ounces, it strikes a balance between being lightweight enough for easy handling and heavy enough to provide stability during cutting tasks.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The knife is not dishwasher safe, requiring hand washing to maintain its quality and sharpness. Additionally, some users might find the 7-inch blade a bit small for certain larger tasks compared to cleavers with longer blades. Moreover, since the knife is made in China, some consumers may have preferences for products made in other countries known for their knife craftsmanship.

The Dalstrong Obliterator Meat Cleaver from the Barbarian Series is a heavy-duty cutting tool designed for serious kitchen tasks. With a massive 9-inch blade made from 7CR17MOV high carbon steel, this cleaver promises excellent toughness and durability. The blade has a Rockwell hardness of 56+, meaning it will maintain a sharp edge and is easy to hone. Its innovative 'Battle Scar' blade pattern is not just for aesthetics; it also helps reduce friction for smoother cuts, while the arrowhead cutout decreases weight and boosts maneuverability.

One standout aspect is its weight – at 2.5 pounds, it is significantly heavier than average meat cleavers, which can be advantageous for cutting through tough meats and bones but might be cumbersome for some users. The handle is crafted from stabilized wood, offering a comfortable and secure grip, though its weight and size may be a challenge for prolonged use.

The cleaver comes with a Crazy Horse genuine leather sheath, making it suitable for outdoor adventures like hunting and camping, and a custom wooden stand for display purposes. While it’s not dishwasher safe, its premium construction ensures longevity. This cleaver is aimed at those who need a robust and versatile tool for heavy-duty kitchen work and outdoor activities. Its balance between weight and blade performance makes it a strong contender for users seeking power and durability in their meat cleaver.

The Babish High-Carbon 1.4116 German Steel 6.5 Inch Full Tang, Forged Cleaver Kitchen Knife is crafted from high-carbon German steel, known for its durability and sharpness. Its 6.5-inch blade is ideal for diverse kitchen tasks, from chopping meat to slicing through bones with ease. The blade's 13° cutting edge angle ensures maximum sharpness, though it requires careful maintenance to retain its edge.

The knife's full-tang design, where the steel extends through the handle, adds to its strength and balance, making it well-suited for heavy-duty chopping. The double-bolstered handle made of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) plastic is durable and provides a comfortable grip, though some might prefer a more traditional wooden handle. At an optimal weight, this cleaver offers excellent balance, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use.

However, it must be hand-washed and dried immediately to prevent rusting. This cleaver is a strong performer in its category, particularly for those who need a reliable tool for powerful cuts. Its combination of high-quality materials and thoughtful design makes it a compelling choice for both professional chefs and home cooks looking to handle tough meats and poultry efficiently.