Wüsthof Classic 6 Inch Cleaver (Black Handle, 16cm Blade)

What makes this cleaver different from a regular chef's knife?

Cleavers are specifically designed for heavy-duty tasks that would damage regular chef's knives. The thick, heavy blade provides the mass needed to chop through bones, joints and tough cartilage. The rectangular blade shape offers more cutting surface area and the substantial weight does most of the work, requiring less force from the user compared to thinner knives.

Can this cleaver handle all types of bones?

This cleaver excels at chopping through poultry bones, fish bones and smaller meat bones like ribs or lamb chops. However, it's not recommended for extremely hard bones like large beef leg bones or frozen bones, which could damage the blade edge. For best results, use on fresh or thawed bones and let the weight of the cleaver do the cutting work.

How should I maintain the blade's sharpness?

Hand wash immediately after use and dry thoroughly to prevent corrosion. The high carbon steel can be sharpened using whetstones, with 1000-grit stones suitable for regular maintenance. Professional sharpening services can restore the original factory edge. Avoid dishwashers as the harsh chemicals and heat can damage both the blade and handle materials.

Is the handle comfortable for extended use?

The triple riveted handle is designed for professional kitchen use and provides excellent grip security. The balanced weight distribution reduces hand fatigue, though cleavers naturally require more strength than lighter knives. The handle shape accommodates different grip positions, allowing users to adjust their hold based on the specific cutting task.

What cutting board should I use with this cleaver?

Use end-grain wooden cutting boards or high-quality plastic boards that won't dull the blade. Avoid glass, stone, or ceramic surfaces which will quickly damage the cutting edge. The cutting board should be thick enough to absorb the impact from chopping motions and large enough to provide stable working space for the cleaver's size.

How heavy is this cleaver compared to regular knives?

At 460g, this cleaver is significantly heavier than most chef's knives which typically weigh 150-250g. The extra weight is intentional - it provides the momentum needed for effective chopping through tough materials. New users may need time to adjust to the weight, but the mass actually reduces the effort required for cutting tasks.

Can I use this for vegetables as well as meat?

Yes, cleavers are excellent for preparing large vegetables like winter squash, cabbage, or root vegetables. The wide blade is particularly useful for crushing garlic or transferring chopped ingredients. However, avoid delicate tasks like fine julienne cuts or precise knife work where a chef's knife would be more appropriate.

What's included with the cleaver purchase?

The purchase includes only the Wüsthof Classic 6 Inch Cleaver itself. No storage sheath, knife block, or sharpening tools are included. Consider purchasing a magnetic knife strip or knife block separately for safe storage, as the heavy blade requires secure storage to prevent accidents and edge damage.