Are you looking for a knife that can cut through meat, chop bones, and perform heavy-duty work without any trouble? Look no further than a cleaver knife. In this article we will be showing you the best cleaver knives there are in the market.
A clever is a kitchen wonder utensil that is known for its power and versatility. It does not matter whether you are an amateur or a professional chef. A well-chosen cleaver makes cutting a difficult piece of meat feel like a child’s play.
We looked for cleavers that are sharp and have a strong build. The ones that are best for chopping, slicing, and mincing.
Deciding the best one for the kitchen can be a head-scratcher as there are many models out there. Here’s where we at Best Knife For You come in! We have researched the entire market, found the ten best cleavers available and compiled them into a list of 10 best cleavers of 2024.
Each one of these cleavers have the quality and the best results to make you feel like a seasonal chef.
Let’s begin your kitchen upgrade adventure! Let’s blitz the competition and fix the right cleaver for your cooking needs!
Top 10 Best Meat Cleaver Knives In the Market
1. Best Overall: Lamson 7.25″ Heavy Duty Meat Cleaver
One of the best cleaver knife in the market is the Lamson 7.25” Heavy Duty Meat Cleaver. A perfect example of this great company bearing its tradition of manufacturing exclusive kitchen utensils.
Lamson dating back to 1837 is one of the oldest cutlery manufacturers in Massachusetts,United States and their products are crafted from premium materials to give a long lasting durability.
This cleaver reflects the brand’s character of professional, durable and timeless.
The 7.25 inch heavy duty meat cleaver is made up of a heavy material that means it is perfect for chopping through bone, cutting chunky portions of meat, etc. and handling large vegetables like cabbage.
The manufacturing quality of the knife is flawless because of its high carbon stainless steel which makes the blade super sharp and durable. The aesthetically crafted walnut handle of the knife guarantees a firm grip.
Key Features & Dimensions:
- Blade length: 7.25 inches
- Handle length: 1.33 inches
- Blade width: 3.25 inches
- Weight: 0.9 pounds
Pro: The weight distribution of the cleaver brings power on the blade that enables it to cut through ingredients that are tough,the handle is made up of walnut and gives a good grip, making it easy to hold while preparing any meal. Its aesthetic look will add glamor to your kitchen knife set.
Con: Largely, it can be said that the cleaver is too bulky for subtle and fine slicing jobs, and it’s pretty handle, made of walnut, needs to be oiled from time to time in order not to look worn out.
This cleaver offers the best of both worlds- tradition and modernity making it ideal for professional and home use. If you are looking for the best meat cleaver for cutting bone that is stylish and won’t let you down, then this is your go-to knife.
2. Best Overall: WÜSTHOF Classic 6″ Cleaver Knife
One of the best meat cleaver in the market is from WÜSTHOF. A company which has been producing professional and high-quality kitchen knives for the past 200 years.
Its latest addition is the WÜSTHOF Classic 6″ Cleaver Knife which is a great example that showcases the craftsmanship and quality of this company.
The company originated in 1814 in Solingen, a city that has long been labeled as the “City of Blades”. The brand is famous for German steel knives and their professional quality.
The blade of this meat cleaver is made of high carbon stainless steel which makes it possible to have and retain a sharp cutting edge for prolonged periods of time. It is free from corrosion and stain-resistant.
The knife is designed with a full tang enhancing balance and control, while the precisely designed synthetic handle brings about stability and comfort especially when handling tough cutting-jobs.
Key Features & Dimensions:
- Blade length: 6 inches
- Handle length: 4. 5 inches
- Blade width: 3.2 inches
- Weight: 1. 25 lbs
Pro: The 6” blade is slightly larger than the 4 ½” blade while at the same time being lighter and more flexible making it a perfect all purpose blade in large and small kitchen tasks. It has a synthetic handle that does not fade or get discolored easily and is therefore very durable.
Con: The blade might also be slightly shorter as compared to other cleavers, which is not so suitable for some individuals when it comes to chopping bones or very thick portions of meat.
The WÜSTHOF Classic 6-Inch Cleaver is one of the best meat cleaver knives that you will have for years in your kitchen because of the German engineering behind the piece.
3. Best For Gifting: Victorinox 40091 7″ Cleaver
The best cleaver knife for gifting is one from Victorinox. It is a Cutlery brand well known in the global markets for its quality and precision that originated from Switzerland and is also famous for manufacturing Swiss Army Knives.
Originally created back in 1884, Victorinox has also become a quality manufacturer of professional and household cutlery. They offer the latest designs, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly products.
These knives are ideal for professional use as well as a domestic one. Making them one of the top meat cleavers you can gift to someone.
This slicer is one of the most impressive knives as it is constructed for intense cleaving activity in restaurants. This cleaver, whether used in food services or in the home kitchen, allows the efficient cutting of bones, large pieces of meat and even vegetables.
Carbon stainless steel is used on the blade to keep it sharp and with stain resistant properties, the handle is made of walnut for that country appeal and for better grip.
It is a versatile cutlery that will meet the needs of people who want functional knives which all look beautiful in the kitchen. Making it the perfect gift to give to your loved ones.
Key Features & Dimensions:
- Blade length: 7 inches
- Handle length: 5 inch
- Blade width: 3. 5 inches
- Weight: 1lbs
Pro: The walnut handle of the knife gives the impression of nature and the modern cleaver like blade on the knife is proficient in slicing through bones or carving meat.
Con: The walnut handle might actually split or dry if not frequently cleaned and oiled. Thus, it may not last as long as synthetic handles of other meat cleavers.
The Victorinox 40091 is a well designed and beautifully crafted cleaver with the highly regarded blade and comfortable grip, as well as being one that will be suitable for chefs, butchers, and anyone who wants a good quality but attractive meat cleaver.
4. Best Budget: Mueller 7-inch Meat Cleaver Knife
The best cleaver knife within a budget comes from- Mueller. A brand that has been established and has grown based on certain key selling points. Such as, being able to provide a good range of innovative and quality kitchen tools at affordable prices.
Mueller earned its reputation for marrying today’s technically advanced steel engineering with practical design ideals that can benefit aspiring and experienced home cooks along with professional chefs.
Their products are made to suit their clients’ needs, which are precise and reliable, the same as their 7-Inch meat cleaver knife.
The Mueller 7-Inch Meat Cleaver Knife is endowed with a variety of general and specific uses, from chopping and cutting various vegetables to cutting through bones and even through various types of meat.
It is constructed of high-carbon stainless steel, this translates to sharp edge, hardness, and resistance to corrosion that would make the blade long lasting provided it is well maintained.
The designed handle of this product is ergonomic; it means that it gives the operator a comfortable and firm surface to hold to avoid the problem of a fatigued hand as people end up using the knife for a long time period.
Key Features & Dimensions:
- Blade length: 7 inches
- Handle length: 5 inches
- Blade width: 3 inches.
- Weight: 1.12 lbs
Pro: The Mueller cleaver is a durable product which is designed to be lightweight so that it can provide the right control and balance suitable for different tasks in the kitchen. Its blade is made from high-carbon stainless steel which gives this knife a long life and sharp cutting edge.
Con: It is a versatile tool for most everyday home cooking tasks, although the blade might not be very durable if used for cutting through big bones, which requires more force and thus is not more suited for challenging butchery work.
All in all, this cleaver can be seen as a great purchase for a decent budget and for people who need good tools without overpaying making it the best budget knife in the market.
5. Best For High Budget: Global G-12-6 1/4″ Meat Cleaver
The best meat cleaver within a high budget comes from Global. This is a Japanese brand which manufactures exceptional kitchen knives. Each knife/cleaver has been designed in a way that is different from the dimension and the perceptions of any other ordinary knife.
The brand was born in 1985, and its knives have been made from a special kind of stainless steel called CROMOVA 18. It is due to this material that Global knives are one of the best knives in the market.
There is something about the design and the razor sharpness of Global knives that makes many professional and home cooks gravitate towards these knives since they offer accuracy and durability while doing kitchen cutouts.
The Global Meat Cleaver G-12 6 1/4” is one of the best cleavers of this range. This cleaver is ideal for serious cutting work & capable of even cutting through bones with relative ease due to its rather thin yet sharpened edge and heavy blade. ‘
The stainless steel is joint-less, which ensures that the appearance of this knife is elegant and hygienic. Its blade is corrosion free while its dimpled handle provides a comfortable anti-slip grip that caters for long working hours in the kitchen.
Key Features & Dimensions:
- Blade length: 6.5 inches
- Handle length: 4.5 inches
- Blade width: 3 inches
- Weight: 1 lbs
Pro: The G-12 cleaver is fine tuned, sharp and perfectly balanced for heavy meat cutting, as well as intricate chopping. The unit’s handle is made of stainless steel and that makes it easier to grip and it does not slip away from the user even when wet.
Con: The all-metal handle which provides durability, as well as, being appealing to what a tool handle should look like, is argued to be uncomfortable for some users who would otherwise appreciate the touch of wooden or synthetic handles.
Because of the integration of form and function, the Global G-12 6 1/4” Meat Cleaver serves as one the best professional meat cleavers that accurately and efficiently chops through the thickest of bones.
6. Best Cleaver Knife Set- Topfeel 3Pcs Butcher Knife Set
If you are looking for the best cleaver knife set, then you should try Topfeel. It is a brand that is uniquely catering to the old-world knife craft with a touch of new-world technology.
Their knives that are hand forged have been proving to be strong, durable and sharp as they perform their functions.
Topfeel knives are suitable for all the rigorous kitchen chores and offer a somewhat countryside feel to the cookware, thus suitable for indoor and outdoor cooking experts.
The Topfeel 3PCS Butcher Knife Set comes with a Nakiri knife which is an all round use knife, a Meat Cleaver/Chef Knife as well as a Boning Knife.
Each knife is crafted out of high carbon stainless steel that provides a sharp knife that doesn’t need to be sharpened again until a certain period of use.
The ergonomic wooden handles ensure that you will not slip as you move around a piece of meat in the kitchen or while preparing to cook at the campsite. All in all, Top 3PCS Butcher knife set is the best meat cleaver knife set you can get on the market.
Features & Dimensions:
Meat Cleaver/Chef Knife:
- Blade Length: 6 inches
- Handle Length: 4.55 inches
- Width: 2.5 inches
Nakiri Knife:
- Blade Length: 6 inches
- Handle Length: 4.5 inches
- Width: 2.5 inches
Boning Knife:
- Blade Length: 6 inches
- Handle Length: 4.8 inches
- Width: 2.5 inches
Weight:
- Meat Cleaver/Chef Knife: 1.5 lbs
- Nakiri Knife: 1.2 lbs
- Boning Knife: 0.9 lbs
Pros: It is hand-forged for exceptional durability and sharpness. It is versatile and suitable for a range of cutting tasks. And has an ergonomically designed handle for comfortable grip.
Cons: Heavier than some other knife sets. Thus, might not be ideal for those seeking lighter tools. Requires regular maintenance to keep the blades in optimal condition.
With Topfeel’s dedication to quality, this knife set promises to be a reliable addition to your culinary arsenal. It also provides a 12 month guarantee for its product.
7. Best Heavy: Duty TUO Meat Cleaver
One of the best cleaver knife for heavy-duty work is from TUO. It is a fashionable brand which represents the international tourist spirit of innovation and accuracy.
Beginning from the love of culinary art, TUO soon stepped up to the title of bringing some of the most modern knives to the world.
Being an embodiment of quality, durability and innovation in its products, TUO products are now prevalent in commercial and home cooking spaces that makes them unique and the most heavy duty cleaver anyone could get their hands on.
Premium Features:
High Carbon German Stainless Steel Blade: This cleaver’s blade is well-built and well-designed to withstand corrosion, giving you high performance in heavy-duty tasks.
Pakkawood Handle: Measuring 6 inches in length, its handle has been specifically designed to be comfortable for the user to hold and control it with ease while being moisture and rust proof.
Dimensions:
- Length of Blade: : is 6 inches
- Length of Handle: 4. 7 Inches
- Width: 5 inches
- Weight: 1.19lbs
Pros: It has high performance standards for butchery of meat, poultry, and fish. It does not require frequent maintenance. Very easy to clean and disinfect.
Cons: You may need to sharpen it from time to time, in order to get the best performance.This knife is not ideal especially for delicate or precision work since it is designed and built specifically for heavy cutting tasks.
Gift Box and Series: In addition, the TUO meat cleaver is a high-quality cleaver that comes with a fancy box and may be used as a gift for colleagues or friends who enjoy the culinary arts. This cleaver comes with a series Fiery Phoenix, and is meant for the cook who wants to get the most of the tool in terms of performance and life-span.
8. Best Chinese Cleaver For Vegetables: Shun Premier Vegetable Cleaver
The best Chinese meat cleaver comes from a company called Shun. Its Premier Vegetable Cleaver is a sure bet for fine culinary skills; it is the true definition of a Japanese knife.
Shun, the name famous for kitchen knives, is well-known for its outstanding quality and craftsmanship. Every single knife is crafted manually to deliver high performance and at the same time have an asthetic look.
Features & Dimensions:
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Handle Length: 5.2 inch
- Blade Width: 2 inch
- Weight: 1.55 lbs
Pros: Delicately forged by VG-MAX steel and comes with Damascus layers, which delivers precision, hardness and reliability. The design of this cleaver is borrowed from the Chinese and it is suitable for chopping large vegetables. The Pakkawood handle looks good and also makes it easy for the user to have a firm grip.
Cons: The width of the blade and its shape has the capacity of cutting large vegetables perfectly but may not efficiently cut thinner or smaller items. This meat cleaver should be carefully maintained to retain the sharpness of the edge which otherwise may get damaged over prolonged use.
The Shun Premier Vegetable Cleaver is a perfect example of Shun’s commitment, which focuses on creating unique and sharp cutting tools that make cooking easier. All in all, one of the best vegetable cleaver knives.
9. Best For Poultry: Huusk Japan Knives
The best Japanese cleaver knife comes from Huusk. A company which makes well-crafted Japanese knives that are rooted in Japanese culture.
This kitchen meat cleaver goes through the traditional process of “hammering and heating” to ensure accuracy and sustainability which is always appreciated by chefs and hunters.
Its steel alloy blade has the virtue of quality as it is forged and has a 16° sharp edge, which will not dull easily.
This Japanese meat cleaver is a great multi-purpose tool for any kitchen, fishing trip or outdoor barbecuing experience. It is extremely strong, durable and made through traditional hand forging techniques.
This meat cleaver is available for all sorts of chores from fileting fish to carving thick steaks and adding a traditional touch to your cooking experience..
The one-piece construction of the blade gives full tang and further guarantees that the blade will not be damaged and will offer good handling when it comes to heavy duty preparations.
Key Features:
- Blade Length: 6.3 inches
- Handle Length: 4. 9 inches
- Blade Width: 3 inches
- Weight: 0.8 lbs
Pros: The Huusk meat cleaver has a precise meat cutting feature due to its possessed razor sharp edge, as well as, easy deboning ability. Its Full tang design provides increased sturdiness and improved design for better dealing with control. An ergonomic handle design enhances the handling of the cleaver knife providing a firm grip, without the risk of slipping even when wet.
Cons: It is a known fact that any knife blade needs constant maintenance and sharpening, so as to meet its optimal functionality. Thus you will have to sharpen this cleaver on a daily-basis to maintain its efficiency.
It doesn’t matter if you are an active camper or a professional chef, the Huusk meat cleaver is a hand forged Viking knife that holds excellent functionality in design, as well as, flexibility.
10. Best Japanese Cleaver for Vegetables: Shun Cutlery Classic Cleaver
If you are looking for the best Japanese cleaver knife then you should try out Shun. Shun has a reputation for making high-quality cutlery.
They blend old-school methods with new-age advances to create knives that work well and look great.
This handmade cleaver is built to handle big vegetables with ease showing Shun’s dedication to accuracy and toughness.
Crafted from premium VG-MAX steel with Damascus cladding, this knife showcases exceptional sharpness, maintains its edge well, and fights off rust.
It has a Chinese-style cleaver design which excels at handling big veggies, chopping, and slicing without a yank.
Features & Dimensions:
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Handle Length: 5 inches
- Blade Width: 1 inches
- Weight:1.2 lbs
Pros: The Pakkawood handle looks great and works even better giving you a comfy grip and great balance as you work.
Cons: There is also a slight issue with the size and weight of the blade. It might not be perfect for fine cutting for some users. You will also have to sharpen it regularly so that the blade stays sharp and the handle stays smooth at all times.
The Shun Classic Vegetable knife is one of the best Japanese cleavers in the market. It is an act of mastery of the Shun company and its associated high quality workmanship making it a practical chopping tool for the kitchen.
Ending Remarks on the Best Cleaver Knives in the Market
To end it up, picking the best cleaver knife can change how you make food in the kitchen, whether you cook at home or in a restaurant. Our top 10 cleaver list shows the best choices out there each with special features for different cutting jobs.
You’ll find heavy meat cleavers for tough work and precise veggie cleavers for careful slicing – there’s a cleaver for every cooking need.
Think about things like what the blade is made of how the handle feels, and how much it weighs. This way, you can pick a cleaver that helps you cook better, lasts a long time, and feels good to use.
Choosing the right cleaver is not only a tool that helps you cook and gets the best results but also improves the quality of your meal.
If you are going to prepare a lot of portions of meat or raw vegetables, you will need a proper cleaver among other tools.