Wüsthof Classic 6-Inch Cleaver

Part of the Classic series, this cleaver represents two centuries of unexcelled Wüsthof craftsmanship. Like other cutlery in the series, it's hand-forged from a single piece of stainless steel for maximum strength; the hand-polished blade is exactingly calibrated to be hard enough to resist dulling yet soft enough to take a keen edge when it's honed or sharpened. Dishwasher-safe and with a traditionally shaped, ergonomically designed handle that is triple-riveted for durability, this cleaver brings a guaranteed lifetime of low-maintenance cutting to its owners. --Arthur Boehm

Having said that, this cleaver is about as good as it gets. Well-balanced, very sharp. and able to easily cut through bone, this is as good as it gets for the home kitchen. I recently upgraded from a Henckel International, and the difference is profound. While the Henckel is perfectly fine for light duty and playing "Yan Can Cook", the Wusthof is the one you want for serious business.


Love It!   April 10, 2004
cat lover (MN USA)
2 out of 3 found this review helpful

This is my first cleaver ever and I love having it. Works great, just the right size and heft.


Important piece of cutlery set!   March 22, 2003
H. Row (Arvada, CO United States)
16 out of 17 found this review helpful

The Classic 6 inch cleaver belongs in any serious set of home or professional cutlery. It has numerous uses from overkill smashing of garlic cloves, use as a scraper to pick up prepared food and place in bowls, mixer or pan. It can quarter poultry, separate beef or pork ribs with ease. If you buy large cuts of meat, you can cut into smaller portions for extra savings.
The Wusthof 6 inch Cleaver is a high performance, high quality kitchen tool. The handle (as in the whole Classic line) is comfortable. The finish on all Wusthof knives and instruments is excellent and will provide long years of use and easy cleaning.
A good purchase that I'm happy with!
John Row


Good Cleaver, But Will You Use It?   November 16, 2001
D (Metro Detroit, MI USA)
30 out of 37 found this review helpful

There are really two main competitors in the high-end mainstream kitchen knife market: Henckels and Wusthof. Those who have used both usually have a preference. My preference (and therefore bias you should know about) is for the Wusthofs.

The Wusthof Classic line is the more conservative counterpart to the Grand Prix line. The only difference, however, is the handle style. I personally prefer the Grand Prix, but this is an issue of personal preference. The balance and grip of these knives are as close to perfect as I have found. For those wondering what benefits a higher priced knife provides, one benefit is that the blade (or tang) is one piece all the way through the handle. This makes the blade much stronger, and less likely to snap.

This particular model, the 6 inch cleaver, is a good cleaver. Most people really don't use a cleaver anymore, as they buy either pre-cut/pre-packaged meats, or they have the butcher cut the meat into loins or steaks for them. If you really are going to use a cleaver, this one is my favorite. The weight and balance are very good.