Chinese cleavers are popular across the globe as a butcher or kitchen knife, and it has a broadside that comes in handy during food preparation. It is a favorite among Chinese chefs since it can perform multiple tasks within the kitchen setup. Although it is very similar to the ordinary cleaver, the Chinese variation has a thinner cross-section. The design of this kitchen tool relies on absolute momentum to cut through meat or any other food without the sawing motion. This blade type is popular in China and some other countries.
In this review, we evaluate ten of the best Chinese cleavers with the DALSTRONG Cleaver being at the top of the list. It is the editor’s choice in our assessment since it’s construction features quality materials and top-notch craft. This model boasts of award-winning work with cutting-edge breakthrough technology that ensures peak performance and absolute comfort during use. It is a medium-duty cleaver that is highly versatile. It is suitable for chopping fish, boneless meats, leafy greens, vegetables, and fruits.
Using top features, we came up with a collection of best Chinese cleavers that are ideal for home use when it comes to chopping meat or vegetables. The material used for the blade and handle and the weight of the cleaver are the features we gave prominence in our assessment. Herein, we include a comparison table, an in-depth review of each of the models, and a buying guide. All these are critical in helping you make an informed choice when shopping for a Chinese cleaver.
More features: vacuum treated; polished using the 3-step traditional method; stain-resistant blade; military-grade handle; professional use
DALSTRONG has been in operation since 2012, and it has since grown to be among the leading brands in the pro kitchen knives realm. This Chinese cleaver from them has a host of qualities that we can exhaust here. The culinary revolution, which combines craft and technology, has been used by the manufacturer to make an excellent piece. These two elements come together to give rise to an outstanding medium-duty Chinese cleaver that is adaptable in the kitchen.
This Chinese cleaver has a 7-inch blade made of AUS-10V, Vacuum-Sealed Japanese super steel cutting core at 62+ Rockwell hardness. It is ultra-sharp, and the scalpel-like edge has a mirror polish finish, which is done by skillful artisans. The sixty-six layers of top-grade stainless steel provide robustness for the Chinese cleaver. It also guarantees durability, making this piece a great pick for a demanding kitchen. The handle design utilizes military-grade fiberglass resin, which is hard-wearing. The ergonomic shape gives you superior hand domination over the knife for utmost comfort and dexterity. The 12.8 oz. is evenly spread on the blade and handle to eliminate any resistance during use.
The tapered blade also does a good job of reducing surface resistance for smooth cuts. The blade also has non-stick properties, and it is stain-resistant, making it the best Chinese cleaver for professional use. You can get it for home use as well since it has flawless features. This model is available in different blade sizes availing choice for home use.
More features: triple-riveted handle
Chinese cleavers are known to be strong, and this particular model from Wusthof is the embodiment of this fact. If you are looking for a model that will handle the extra tough chopping tasks in your kitchen, then do not hesitate to order this one. The blade measures seven inches, and it is of high carbon stainless steel. It is robust and hard-wearing; hence this piece is the perfect buy for any kitchen. The Wusthof Precision Edge Technology makes it easy to maintain the razor-sharp edge, which has a high-retention edge.
The long-straight blade makes this model an excellent pick for chopping vegetables. The blade has an ideal surface area that can crush garlic and other ingredients that need it. The flat blade also comes in handy when you need to transport ingredients from the chopping board to the plate or pan. This part has multiple uses including to tenderizing meat before the sharp edge chops it into the size that you want. The handle is made of synthetic material, and this may be a deal-breaker for some people. This handle is sturdy, but its robustness cannot on the same level as others made from better quality materials.
The handle has a triple rivet, and it has an ergonomic design that allows for ease of use and control. The finish is seamless, making this model hygienic for kitchen use. The full-length tang provides exceptional toughness, and the full bolster keeps the fingers from slipping.
More features: anti-slip handle; non-stick coating; 3-layer steel blade; ultra-sharp blade edge design
This SHI BA ZI ZUOKitchen Knife has many pleasing qualities that make it one of the best Chinese cleavers for home use. The nine-inch blade provides enough coverage to chop most ingredients ranging from meat to vegetables and leafy greens. The stainless-steel blade with a top-notch three-layer construction that is extremely hard and remains sharp for a long time. The 80Cr13 high carbon core steel ensures durability, and the outer 10Cr17 layer prevents corrosion and enhances the toughness of the blade.
Vacuum heat treatment bequeaths the steel with the fines mechanical property. The non-stick coating used in the finish prevents the food from sticking on the blade. The edge design provides the balance needed for chopping, slicing, dicing, and mincing meat. The wide blade can smash garlic. The classic rosewood handle complements the wide blade, and it is anti-slip and antifreeze. These properties provide the ideal safety measures for the kitchen, keeping your hands safe. The full tang is wire integrated into the handle provides for safety and stability when this Chinese cleaver is in use.
This piece is suitable for home and restaurant use. It comes in a gift box package that is aesthetic and functions to keep the Chinese cleaver safe. External factors that could damage it during shipping are kept at bay by this packaging. This unit is made from combining two plates of steel that are perfect for the kitchen, and loved ones who are cooking fanatics will be above the moon to receive such a gift.
More features: comes in a gift box; inspired by ancient Japanese knife-making traditions; professional-grade; lifetime warranty
KATSURA draws the inspiration for this Chinese cleaver from the traditions of ancient Japan. The aesthetic value of this model is top-notch, and the finish showcases excellent skill from the artisans. The Damascus steel used in the construction of this Chinese cleaver is rust-resistant, very sharp, and it has an impeccable edge retention capability. The blade measures 6.5 inches long, making this model appropriate for diverse tasks within the kitchen.
The blade spine is suitable for pounding meat, while the flat surface known as the Chukabocho is just right for crushing garlic cloves. The handle of this Chinese cleaver is appropriate for chefs and other people in the culinary world. The handle is comfy, giving users a chance to make clean cuts without necessarily being a pro in the culinary world. The grip is steady, and the shape of the handle positions your hand for proper cutting methodology. Ease of use and efficiency are the top giving that this handle has in store for you is you order this Samurai inspired piece.
The three-pin full tang design joins the blade to the handle flawlessly. This gives the users a perfect grip on the tool. The middle rivet is decorated with a mosaic to elevate the aesthetic value of the piece and pay homage to its origin. The Katsura customer support team is available to help with any issues concerning the knife. The lifetime warranty, on the other hand, covers any production defects that this Chinese cleaver might have during delivery or after use.
More features: extra sharp steel; ergonomic handle; lifetime guarantee
TUO is a manufacturer with some of the best-designed products in the market. The popularity of this brand has gone over the roof since its inception. This is due to the competitive rates they offer to consumers. This stylish Chinese cleaver from them has some of the best qualities that we interacted with, and it retails for less than $35 on Amazon. The conspicuous grain of the polished pakkawood handle is among the main features that capture attention. This cleaver is a piece that can add value to your kitchen due to the design concept used for the handle. Other than its beauty, this ergonomic handle is highly functional and offer stability and control in the kitchen.
Premium German high carbon stainless steel makes up the blade of this Chinese cleaver. Polishing at the edge of the blade has been done by hand at 12-15 degrees on either side. The steel used is stain resistant, and its hardness goes up to HRC56±2. High tech vacuum heat treatment is put to use to achieve this level of hardness. The material used alongside the vacuum heat treatment make this Chinese cleaver razor-sharp, and the blade is resilient to normal wear and tear that these types of tools go through.
The packaging of this Chinese cleaver makes it a perfect gift. The manufacturer guarantees 100% satisfaction for anyone who buys this product. If you do not like it, you can return it and get your money back. If you want it, there’s a lifetime warranty from TUO.
More features: lightweight; rust-resistant; durable; ergonomic design; lifetime warranty
This model from MAD SHARK is another giftable Chinese cleaver that you will find in the market. It is a beautiful piece with many desirable qualities. It is ideal for home and pro use, but cutting meat with bones is not possible with this unit. It can handle the day to day tasks in the kitchen, such as chopping boneless meat, poultry, and tough vegetables. This Chinese cleaver has the approval of the FDA. The blade is seven inches long, and it has a unique design that elevates the utility of this Chinese cleaver. The high carbon German steel the manufacturer uses to make the blade has a host of benefits. It is robust and long-lasting, making sure that this piece caters to your wants for as long as possible.
The stainless-steel blade is resistant to wear, rust, and stains, making it perfect for the kitchen setup. The wide blade is thin and ultra-sharp to help you get the best cuts. Re-sharpening ought to be a regular exercise to ensure that the blade does not become useless in the long run.
The ergonomic shape permits an excellent balance between the handle and thin blade, making work effortless. The full tang offers stability and strength needed for the various chopping tasks that this model can handle. This design has a single rivet centrally placed on the handle to offer resilience. Money-back guarantee is available for users who will not find this Chinese cleaver worthwhile for those who will; a lifetime warranty is available.
More features: razor-sharp ice-hardened blade, dishwasher safe, edge angle 15˚ per side
The Zwilling Twin Signature Cleaver is stamped from a single piece of German steel and then put through a 4-step Friodur process that includes freezing the steel to -94 degrees to produce a very sharp yet flexible blade that offers the ultimate in hygiene and safety.
Seven inches is a very handy length for a cleaver, and the fact that it is so lightweight makes it easy for any chef to handle. It is lightweight at only 10 oz., so it is the ideal chopping cleaver to take on the road if you are a celebrity chef, tableside chef, or hunter.
We liked the light feeling of this blade in our hand and the slight bevel on the cutting edge to help us have more control over cutting hard vegetables. The handle is triple-riveted, making it easy on the fingers and hands, especially if you have to do a lot of chopping. It is also hard enough to cut through animal bone. This is also the classic Chinese vegetable cutting knife that should be appreciated for its traditional Asian versatility and styling.
The handle seems a bit thin and made for someone with smaller hands, which is a styling accent that actually makes it an authentic Chinese knife, although it is ergonomic and has three gripping areas, it may be fatiguing for someone with large hands to use. This type of handle also gets quite slippery if it gets wet, and it would be great if the knife came with some kind of portable carry case of its very own.
More features: normal straight edge
The Victorinox Stainless Steel cleaver looks like the standard heavy Chinese cleaver, but it has a lighter feel. This is a great straight-edged to take camping or to a culinary competition where you are the star as it only weighs 3.53 oz.
Victorinox makes quality Swiss Army knives. Anything Victorinox makes is meant to be kept for a lifetime. That has been their policy all along regarding their famous Swiss army knives. Like their other knives, this lightweight cleaver can become a keepsake and a conversation piece,
This high-quality knife has the Victorinox symbol right on the blade, so it can be the pride and glory of your kitchen. The blade is tempered, and despite its lightweight, can chop hard through hot meat. We like that the handle is made of thermoplastic rubber called Fibrox, so if you accidentally set it down on a hot stove, it won’t melt, and it won’t melt in the dishwasher either.
Consumer reviews have noted that the knife needs sharpening after you take it out of the box, which may be for safety reasons while shipping, but note that you do possibly need a knife sharpener. This could be a challenge if you don’t already own one, and it would be ideal if this knife came with one. The higher set handle where the top of the handle is flush with the top of the blade may also not work for everyone.
More features: lifetime warranty, ultra-sharp, cobalt-added, cryogenically treated steel cutting core, edge angle 13-15˚ per side, matching guard and sheath included
This ultra-sharp knife has a cryogenically treated steel cutting cor3 and a very sharp beveled edge with a 13; to 15″ per side, making it ideal for chopping and mincing anything. It is a heavier knife, so it can chop anything hot or cold without shattering.
One of the three pins in the handle of the Kyoku 7″ cleaver is a tiny circular red, yellow and white mosaic that gives this knife an elegant touch. The Pakkawood handle is also very unique, with its natural wood grain that resists heat, cold, and moisture.
We liked that the decorative handle with the mosaic, natural pakkawood, and stainless steel capped handle end gives this ultra-sharp knife a very elegant look. The brushed steel of the blade also flows nicely into the wood handle with a shinier look., This blade has also been hardened to HRC 56-58, and it boasts a Rockwell hardness of 56+. It can last a lifetime without chipping or cracking. It is also great that it comes with a sheath for safety and also a case.
This is a very professional knife with an extreme bevel on an incredibly sharp blade. Anyone who used it should be skilled in how it works as it would be quite easy to have a terrible accident if it fell from your fingers. People who are not used to cleavers like this should go slow when using it. It also has the potential to hack up the surface of a wooden chopping board seriously.
More features: anti-slip handle, corrosion-resistant
This authentic-looking cleaver looks like it belongs in the kitchen of a heavy-duty Chinese restaurant. Its longer 7.7 blade and heaviness make it ideal for cutting pork, duck, and lobster; it hacks easily through any type of raw vegetable or fruit, but it could shatter if you use it on frozen food or ice blocks.
This very sharp, heavy cleaver is a full .7 inches longer than most cleavers on our Editor’s Choice list, which makes it more suitable for professional use. The black brushed flatness of the blade also makes it a unique and industrial look. The top right corner of the blade also has a hole in it, which allows it to be hung on a hook in a kitchen.
We liked the rustic look of this knife with its black and silver steel blade and unvarnished wood handle. There is true beauty in the pragmatic simplicity of its design, which matches the blackened looks of most cast-iron stoves and woks. It is a very strong handcrafted item made by a company that has been hand-forging cleavers for over 100 years. It also comes with a 100% money-back guarantee.
We were not as impressed with the wooden handle, which may not last as long as other materials and can be easily burnt if laid on a hot surface. Although bolted with three pins, the wood in the handle is not varnished, which makes it more vulnerable to splitting from an impact. The wooden handle may wear out if you put it in the dishwasher, water may swell the handle and, over time, separate it from the cleaver blade.
Chinese cleavers are a great addition to any kitchen. The various models of the same available in the market can replace the ordinary kitchen knife. They have a myriad of benefits, but only if the right one for your kitchen is bought. Numerous factors have to be taken into consideration before placing an order. Our buying guide will point you in the right direction regarding which model to buy for yourself or as a gift to someone else. Do not hesitate to read the guide through to the end. We discuss some of the intrinsic elements that one ought to know about Chinese cleavers.
Many reasons push people to acquire Chinese cleavers. You might think that you do not need this tool, but buying one will open you to a whole new world of possibilities. Some of the reasons why you need a Chinese knife are in the discourse below.
The Chinese cleaver combines the properties of a kitchen knife and that of the regular cleaver in one tool. It, therefore, has a thin blade and is sharp like the ordinary chef’s knife, but the weight is higher. The additional weight that Chinese cleavers bring to the table makes it easier to cut through vegetables, boneless meat, and poultry. Controlling the falling of the Chinese knife is all you have to do to get the finest cuts.
Chinese cleavers are lighter than other knives, but multiple layers of steel are used in the building of the blade. This technique ensures that the blade is sturdy. It can, therefore, withstand heavy cutting through foods without any significant damage. Most of the Chinese cleavers, even those we review above, have full tang designs; hence they cannot break or falter quickly.
One important feature that stands out for all Chinese cleavers is their ability to handle numerous tasks in the kitchen. They can be used to chop boneless meat, poultry, and different kinds of vegetables. This, in turn, limits the number of knives that you have to use during food preparation. Other than cutting food, Chinese cleavers have a flat surface that can be used to scope food and transfer it with ease. This flat side also comes in handy when you want to crush garlic cloves, ginger, or tenderize meat.
Before you choose among the many in the market place, you must be aware of the crucial features of Chinese cleavers. Consider reading through the elements we discuss below to get a better picture of Chinese cleavers and their essential characteristics.
Blade lengthThe purpose of the Chinese cleaver is the perfect guide in helping you decide the blade length. Models that are medium in size are recommended over smaller or larger variations. Small ones may not be able to perform while big ones may be hard to handle. The MAD SHARK Cleaver Knife and others that are within the same length are appropriate.
The material used for the blade is a feature you cannot afford to ignore. High-quality Chinese cleavers are made from treated stainless steel.
The German high carbon stainless steel and Damascus steel are currently among the best.
Your grip on the knife depends on the type of material used for the handle. Wood and plastic are among the common types of materials that you will find on Chinese cleavers. The SHI BA ZI ZUO Kitchen Knife we discuss above is an example of Chinese cleavers with the best handles. It has an anti-slip and antifreeze designed handle.
The mass of a Chinese cleaver has implications on the functionality.
Identify the tasks that the knife is likely to handle. This way, you can pick the correct model because weight is critical for chopping food when using a Chinese cleaver.
This review and buying guide that we bring to you may be your stepping stone to getting the finest Chinese cleaver for your kitchen. The assortments we assess above consist of both Chinese knives for home use and professional ones as well.
The leading brand that we have in this review, as per our evaluation is the DALSTRONG Cleaver. It is the editor’s choice since it features a culinary revolution that brings together technology, creativity, and skill. It is a professional Chinese cleaver with a military-grade handle and a sturdy blade made from vacuum heated Japanese steel.
The premium pick in this article is the exceptional Wusthof Chinese Cleaver. It is a product of one of the leading manufacturers in the knife business: the razor-sharp blade and an ergonomic handle made from premium materials. The TUO Cleaver Knife is our best value pick. It is sold at a fair price, and it is among the best Chinese cleavers with pakkawood handle.
