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10 Best Meat Cleaver 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

HexClad Cleaver Knife, 7-Inch Japanese Damascus Stainless Steel Blade, Pakkawood Handle

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,204
Handle Material
Weight
Balance

Most important from
865 reviews

Handle Material
The craftsmanship and overall feel of the knife is superior, particularly the stunning dark green wooden handle.
Weight
The knife has a good weight to it and the ergonomic handle sits well in the hand.
Balance
The blade quality is incredible, with an awesome edge and well-balanced design.

The HexClad Cleaver Knife is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and sharp meat-cleaver. Its 7-inch Japanese Damascus stainless steel blade is crafted with 67 layers, producing a strong and durable cutting edge that stays sharp longer. This knife is particularly effective for chopping through tough ingredients like turnips, squash, and even bones, making it ideal for home cooks who frequently prepare hearty meals. The ergonomic Pakkawood handle is another highlight, providing a comfortable grip that helps improve control during use.

One of the standout features of this cleaver is the exceptional 12-degree cutting edge achieved through the advanced Honbazuke method. This gives the knife a nice balance of hardness and flexibility, perfect for precision cutting. Additionally, the lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects adds peace of mind for buyers, although it's important to note that this warranty does not cover damage from misuse.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The knife requires hand washing, as it is not dishwasher safe, which might be inconvenient for some users. Maintaining its sharpness will require regular honing, so those looking for a low-maintenance option may want to think twice. At 1.56 pounds, it’s slightly heavier than other cleavers, which may affect maneuverability for some users. The HexClad Cleaver Knife is well-suited for home chefs who value quality and performance in their kitchen tools. Its strengths in sharpness and handle comfort make it a great addition to any kitchen, but potential buyers should be prepared for the maintenance and care involved.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,204
Handle Material
Weight
Balance

Most important from
865 reviews

Handle Material
The craftsmanship and overall feel of the knife is superior, particularly the stunning dark green wooden handle.
Weight
The knife has a good weight to it and the ergonomic handle sits well in the hand.
Balance
The blade quality is incredible, with an awesome edge and well-balanced design.
#2

Babish High-Carbon 1.4116 German Steel 6.5 Inch Full Tang, Forged Cleaver Kitchen Knife

Rating
9.8
Handle Material
Weight
Balance

Most important from
9556 reviews

Handle Material
It's well packaged, a nice weight, pretty well balanced, and sharp. The handle is comfortable and it looks nice.
Weight
It's well packaged, a nice weight, pretty well balanced, and sharp.
Balance
It's well packaged, a nice weight, pretty well balanced, and sharp.

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.

Rating
9.8
Handle Material
Weight
Balance

Most important from
9556 reviews

Handle Material
It's well packaged, a nice weight, pretty well balanced, and sharp. The handle is comfortable and it looks nice.
Weight
It's well packaged, a nice weight, pretty well balanced, and sharp.
Balance
It's well packaged, a nice weight, pretty well balanced, and sharp.
#3

imarku Cleaver Knife 7 Inch Meat Cleaver - SUS440A Japan High Carbon Stainless Steel Butcher Knife with Ergonomic Handle, Ultra Sharp Knife, Kitchen Gadgets for Home/Restaurant, Father's Day Gifts

Rating
9.7
Handle Material
Weight
Balance

Most important from
4662 reviews

Handle Material
Comfortable handle enhances usability and control.
Weight
Lightweight design makes it easy to handle.
Balance
The weight and feel strike a perfect balance for various kitchen tasks.

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.

Rating
9.7
Handle Material
Weight
Balance

Most important from
4662 reviews

Handle Material
Comfortable handle enhances usability and control.
Weight
Lightweight design makes it easy to handle.
Balance
The weight and feel strike a perfect balance for various kitchen tasks.

Buying Guide for the Best Meat Cleaver

Choosing the right meat cleaver can make a significant difference in your kitchen experience, especially if you frequently work with large cuts of meat or bone. A meat cleaver is a heavy-duty knife designed to cut through thick meat and bone with ease. When selecting a meat cleaver, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the main factors to consider and how to navigate them.
Blade MaterialThe blade material of a meat cleaver is crucial because it affects the knife's durability, sharpness, and ease of maintenance. Common materials include stainless steel, high-carbon steel, and composite materials. Stainless steel is resistant to rust and easy to maintain, making it a good choice for general use. High-carbon steel is harder and can hold a sharper edge for longer, but it requires more maintenance to prevent rust. Composite materials can offer a balance of both. Choose stainless steel if you prefer low maintenance, high-carbon steel for superior sharpness, and composite if you want a mix of both.
Blade SizeBlade size determines the cleaver's ability to handle different tasks. Meat cleavers typically range from 6 to 12 inches in length. Smaller blades (6-8 inches) are easier to handle and maneuver, making them suitable for smaller cuts of meat and vegetables. Larger blades (10-12 inches) provide more power and are better for cutting through large cuts of meat and bone. Consider a smaller blade if you need more control and a larger blade if you need more cutting power.
Blade ThicknessBlade thickness affects the cleaver's strength and ability to cut through tough materials. Thicker blades (around 4-6mm) are more robust and can handle heavy-duty tasks like chopping through bone. Thinner blades (2-3mm) are lighter and more precise, making them better for slicing meat and vegetables. Choose a thicker blade for heavy-duty tasks and a thinner blade for more delicate work.
Handle MaterialThe handle material impacts the cleaver's comfort and grip. Common materials include wood, plastic, and stainless steel. Wooden handles offer a traditional look and a comfortable grip but require more maintenance to prevent cracking. Plastic handles are durable, easy to clean, and provide a good grip. Stainless steel handles are very durable and hygienic but can be slippery when wet. Choose a handle material that feels comfortable in your hand and suits your maintenance preferences.
WeightThe weight of a meat cleaver affects its balance and ease of use. Heavier cleavers provide more force, making it easier to cut through tough meat and bone, but they can be tiring to use for extended periods. Lighter cleavers are easier to handle and maneuver but may require more effort to cut through tough materials. Consider a heavier cleaver for heavy-duty tasks and a lighter one for more frequent, general use.
BalanceBalance refers to how the weight is distributed between the blade and the handle. A well-balanced cleaver feels comfortable and stable in your hand, reducing fatigue and improving control. To test the balance, hold the cleaver at the point where the blade meets the handle. If it feels evenly weighted, it is well-balanced. Choose a cleaver that feels balanced and comfortable in your hand to ensure ease of use.

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