On All Domestic Orders Over $60
- Knife Brands
Knife Brands- Anryu Knives
- CCK Cleavers
- Doi Knives
- Dojo Knives
- Fujiwara Knives
- Gihei Knives
- Goko Knives
- Harukaze Knives
- Hinoura Knives
- Ikeda Knives
- Ishikawa Knives
- Kajiwara Knives
- Kamo Knives
- Kanehide Knives
- Yoshimi Kato Knives
- Kikuichi Knives
- Kitaoka Knives
- Kohetsu Knives
- Konosuke Knives
- Kurosaki Knives
- MAC Knives
- Makoto Knives
- Masakage Knives
- Masamoto Knives
- Masutani Knives
- Matsubara Knives
- Minamoto Knives
- Misono Knives
- Knife Types
Knife Types- Boning Knives
- Bunka Knives
- Bread Knives
- Chef Knives
- Carving Knives
- Cleavers
- Deba Knives
- Eel Knives
- Fillet Knives
- Folding and Hunting Knives
- Funayukis
- Gokujos
- Gyutos
- Hankotsus
- Honesukis
- Japanese Knives
- Kiritsukes
- Kogatanas
- Kurouchi knives
- Left Handed Knives
- Nakiris
- No Handle Knives
- Oyster Knives
- Paring Knives
- Petty Knives
- Santokus
- Steak Knives
- Sujihikis
- Sushi Knives
- Shop All
- Accessories
- Shop by Steel
- Suppliers
- New Arrivals
- Resources
- forum
This small Chinese chef’s knife is called a Sangdao and is a great cleaver at an even greater price. It is made from carbon steel with a tough kurouchi finish. It requires extra care to keep from rusting, so it is vital to keep it clean and dry between uses.
The CCK Small Cleaver is our best selling cleaver at CKTG. It is a wonderful introduction to the world of Chinese chef knives. The blade is quite thin for a knife of this type and has a very sharp edge. There is a very slight belly to the edge profile which reduces the chance of the end sticking into the cutting board.
Sangdao are the perfect knives to quickly and precisely chop, julienne, and slice meats and vegetables, but it will not cut any bones...so please don’t try!
This is a great choice for those wanting their first cleaver or for chefs who are looking for a workhorse for vegetable prep.Weight: 9.8 ounces
Blade Length: 214 mm (8.5")
Overall Length: 315 mm (12.5")
Thickness at Heel: 1.9 mm
Blade Height: 95 mm (3.75")
The CCK Small Cleaver is our best selling cleaver at CKTG. It is a wonderful introduction to the world of Chinese chef knives. The blade is quite thin for a knife of this type and has a very sharp edge. There is a very slight belly to the edge profile which reduces the chance of the end sticking into the cutting board.
Sangdao are the perfect knives to quickly and precisely chop, julienne, and slice meats and vegetables, but it will not cut any bones...so please don’t try!
This is a great choice for those wanting their first cleaver or for chefs who are looking for a workhorse for vegetable prep.
Product Reviews
Super Slicer, October 20, 2017
OK, a little disapointed, October 19, 2017 Nice, but not that nice, October 19, 2017Posted By: Tom Maynard - verified customer
It takes an edge, it's fun to use, but is it really a $70 blade? Not really. Still, if you want a veggie cleaver that will go the distance you're going to have to fork over the cash. Mine arrived with a bent corner (on the spine opposite the handle -- no effect on the edge (purely cosmetic) but indicative of what you should expect. I've been using mine exclusively since it arrived and I like it quite a bit.
It takes an edge, it's fun to use, but is it really a $70 blade? Not really. Still, if you want a veggie cleaver that will go the distance you're going to have to fork over the cash. Mine arrived with a bent corner (on the spine opposite the handle -- no effect on the edge (purely cosmetic) but indicative of what you should expect. I've been using mine exclusively since it arrived and I like it quite a bit.
Light and sharp, October 2, 2017Posted By: Cheryl - verified customer
2 people found this review helpful
I saw this knife mentioned in Milkstreet magazine. I trust Christopher Kimball and I was not disappointed with this knife. Very sharp and light as a feather to hold. I'm so happy that I found this knife at chef knives to go and that I chose the sharpening service. I am a very happy customer..
2 people found this review helpful
I saw this knife mentioned in Milkstreet magazine. I trust Christopher Kimball and I was not disappointed with this knife. Very sharp and light as a feather to hold. I'm so happy that I found this knife at chef knives to go and that I chose the sharpening service. I am a very happy customer..
I opted for this, September 26, 2017Posted By: Perry
after looking at lots of Nakiri knives. The extra blade height and length are a real plus for working with larger produce and it doesn't feel like a large object in your hand at all when using it. In fact, it put me in mind of my Takeda in that regard. Heavier, but still nimble and very comfortable and pleasurable to use. Balance point is just ahead of the pinch grip and 10 minutes on the stones and it is scary sharp. I turned about 10 apples into wafer thin slices for stewing, did some salad prep and potatoes too. I'm loving it. This thing, properly used and cared for is a great prep knife, workhorse. I don't work in commercial kitchens anymore but would have this with me if i did. I don't particularly care for "pretty" knives. So long as the steel is good and it functions well i enjoy the rustic appearance and the ritual of caring for and respecting your tools. At this price point i would recommend that anyone curious enough to be reading these opinions, grab one ! Its not going to break the bank and i'll wager it will be a keeper. Really glad i bought it.
after looking at lots of Nakiri knives. The extra blade height and length are a real plus for working with larger produce and it doesn't feel like a large object in your hand at all when using it. In fact, it put me in mind of my Takeda in that regard. Heavier, but still nimble and very comfortable and pleasurable to use. Balance point is just ahead of the pinch grip and 10 minutes on the stones and it is scary sharp. I turned about 10 apples into wafer thin slices for stewing, did some salad prep and potatoes too. I'm loving it. This thing, properly used and cared for is a great prep knife, workhorse. I don't work in commercial kitchens anymore but would have this with me if i did. I don't particularly care for "pretty" knives. So long as the steel is good and it functions well i enjoy the rustic appearance and the ritual of caring for and respecting your tools. At this price point i would recommend that anyone curious enough to be reading these opinions, grab one ! Its not going to break the bank and i'll wager it will be a keeper. Really glad i bought it.
really sharp, August 4, 2017 CCK SMALL CLEAVER, June 23, 2017Posted By: Jim martin - verified customer
1 people found this review helpful
Been looking to get a cleaver for very long time but could not find the one that would fit my requirements. I took a chance on this one from another website. It has been the best knife I have ever put in my hands. I am very pleased on how it just slides through the item I'm cooking, and how easy to sharpen. It really holds its sharpness. Cannot Express how much I love this knife.
1 people found this review helpful
Been looking to get a cleaver for very long time but could not find the one that would fit my requirements. I took a chance on this one from another website. It has been the best knife I have ever put in my hands. I am very pleased on how it just slides through the item I'm cooking, and how easy to sharpen. It really holds its sharpness. Cannot Express how much I love this knife.
intro to chinese knives, June 22, 2017Posted By: Cris - verified customer
2 people found this review helpful
Hey, this was my first intro to the whole chinese chef knife approach, and glad I did it. The overall size sounds 'big' on paper, but once in my hand it's seems just fine, even a few more mm's in higher/longer would be fine as well. The materials seems a little 'crude' but I enjoy the rustic approach. All the elements are here for a great knife. I sanded lightly the handle with a 150grit by hand for few mins. The wood handle seems untreated and left in natural state. I used a good oil based outdoor deck primer/stain for the handle treatment. After 24hr+ of drying its really nice now. People complain about the 'lacquer' on the metal, but seems to be holding up fine so far, and keeps corrosion (like none) down. Overall, nice buy for good price. Only recommendation is if Mr Richmond could increase his CCK line to more products; Ie: Bone-choppers, duck (dimsum) slicers, etc...
2 people found this review helpful
Hey, this was my first intro to the whole chinese chef knife approach, and glad I did it. The overall size sounds 'big' on paper, but once in my hand it's seems just fine, even a few more mm's in higher/longer would be fine as well. The materials seems a little 'crude' but I enjoy the rustic approach. All the elements are here for a great knife. I sanded lightly the handle with a 150grit by hand for few mins. The wood handle seems untreated and left in natural state. I used a good oil based outdoor deck primer/stain for the handle treatment. After 24hr+ of drying its really nice now. People complain about the 'lacquer' on the metal, but seems to be holding up fine so far, and keeps corrosion (like none) down. Overall, nice buy for good price. Only recommendation is if Mr Richmond could increase his CCK line to more products; Ie: Bone-choppers, duck (dimsum) slicers, etc...
Cleavr, June 20, 2017 CCK small, June 13, 2017 Love this knife, May 24, 2017 Great Knife, May 18, 2017Posted By: Nat - verified customer
2 people found this review helpful
I bought the cleaver on the recommendation of Christopher Kimball . And I'm very pleased. The cleaver is sharp , a big enough cleaver but not too heavy.
My only complaint is that the handle isn't finished wood .
2 people found this review helpful
I bought the cleaver on the recommendation of Christopher Kimball . And I'm very pleased. The cleaver is sharp , a big enough cleaver but not too heavy.
My only complaint is that the handle isn't finished wood .
CCK small cleaver, May 10, 2017 Impressive, April 27, 2017Posted By: Rick S
1 people found this review helpful
I bought this cleaver last year and have used it almost every day and mine still looks brand new. I wipe it dry after each use and wash it by hand as needed. So far no rust or patina. I have no complaints about edge retention. The edge holds up well even under heavy use and it is easy to redress. In spite of its appearance in the photo this cleaver is light as a feather and it is comfortable in my hand. I do own another carbon steel slicer but I reach for this CCK every time. Would I buy another. In a heartbeat. I think that's the best I can say.
1 people found this review helpful
I bought this cleaver last year and have used it almost every day and mine still looks brand new. I wipe it dry after each use and wash it by hand as needed. So far no rust or patina. I have no complaints about edge retention. The edge holds up well even under heavy use and it is easy to redress. In spite of its appearance in the photo this cleaver is light as a feather and it is comfortable in my hand. I do own another carbon steel slicer but I reach for this CCK every time. Would I buy another. In a heartbeat. I think that's the best I can say.
Small Cleaver......Workhorse In The Kitchen, April 24, 2017 Excellent slicer!, April 15, 2017 The sharpest!!!, April 11, 2017 CCK Vegetable Cleaver, April 5, 2017Posted By: Greg Grace - verified customer
2 people found this review helpful
This Chinese vegetable cleaver cuts through most vegetables as if they are made of cooled butter. I have been using Asian style cleavers ever since I bought my first complete wok system in the 80s. Over the years I have lost the cleaver, but I always loved its cutting ease compared to the best of the western-styled knifes. The company CCK has the western high-end market on these cleavers. Yet, I believe they could produce a better finished product for the price point. The knife comes sharp, but really needs a very good knife honing and dressing to finish it up. The Cleavers blade tang is just smashed into the wooden handle and the handle needs to be oiled and protected. All this is necessary for a $70 carbon-steel knife. I own many fine western made knifes around this price point and they do not need any of this additional help to really work at their best. Sadly, even after this initial work I did on my cleaver, it immediately developed a 3/16 inch round notch as I was enjoying it to slice through its first 4 peeled carrots. This cleaver had to suffer from a bad batch of steel with impurities that greater increased the blades brittleness about 1 1/4 inches from the end of the outer edge. So, I talked with Mark the owner and he is sending me a replacement cleaver. A cleaver of this style will completely change your mind concerning vegetable prep and workflow. It is that good. I just received a dud, so to speak. I just have to wait again to enjoy the Asian ease of vegetable prep. Do not use this as a cleaver for any boning tasks it is not designed for that. The blade is too narrow and thin. This is not to be used as a meat cleaver in a pinch too. So I suggest that you watch anyone who is unfamiliar with it the first time they start cutting with it. That was not my problem with this cleaver either, I've recently lost my all family members to - the circle of life - so to speak. Just remember the blade will rust, but sharpens very quickly and stays that way even longer. It needs more TLC than most western knife due and has to be dried instantly after use, but it will make you a believer in a couple of slices. It is a safer cleaver/knife design. It has a very tall blade that make slicing even safer, because the knuckles are in touch with the slide of the blade all the chopping cycle. I cannot say that about my largest ultra-sharp 12 inch chef-style knife; its not as safe to use and it takes more power and skill to cut as well.It is a cut above the others!
2 people found this review helpful
This Chinese vegetable cleaver cuts through most vegetables as if they are made of cooled butter. I have been using Asian style cleavers ever since I bought my first complete wok system in the 80s. Over the years I have lost the cleaver, but I always loved its cutting ease compared to the best of the western-styled knifes. The company CCK has the western high-end market on these cleavers. Yet, I believe they could produce a better finished product for the price point. The knife comes sharp, but really needs a very good knife honing and dressing to finish it up. The Cleavers blade tang is just smashed into the wooden handle and the handle needs to be oiled and protected. All this is necessary for a $70 carbon-steel knife. I own many fine western made knifes around this price point and they do not need any of this additional help to really work at their best. Sadly, even after this initial work I did on my cleaver, it immediately developed a 3/16 inch round notch as I was enjoying it to slice through its first 4 peeled carrots. This cleaver had to suffer from a bad batch of steel with impurities that greater increased the blades brittleness about 1 1/4 inches from the end of the outer edge. So, I talked with Mark the owner and he is sending me a replacement cleaver. A cleaver of this style will completely change your mind concerning vegetable prep and workflow. It is that good. I just received a dud, so to speak. I just have to wait again to enjoy the Asian ease of vegetable prep. Do not use this as a cleaver for any boning tasks it is not designed for that. The blade is too narrow and thin. This is not to be used as a meat cleaver in a pinch too. So I suggest that you watch anyone who is unfamiliar with it the first time they start cutting with it. That was not my problem with this cleaver either, I've recently lost my all family members to - the circle of life - so to speak. Just remember the blade will rust, but sharpens very quickly and stays that way even longer. It needs more TLC than most western knife due and has to be dried instantly after use, but it will make you a believer in a couple of slices. It is a safer cleaver/knife design. It has a very tall blade that make slicing even safer, because the knuckles are in touch with the slide of the blade all the chopping cycle. I cannot say that about my largest ultra-sharp 12 inch chef-style knife; its not as safe to use and it takes more power and skill to cut as well.It is a cut above the others!
Arrived on time, as advertised., April 3, 2017 Great knife, but consider . . ., March 26, 2017Posted By: S. Wheeler - verified customer
1 people found this review helpful
Incredible knife as reviewed by Cook's Illustrated. Great for meats and veggies, crushing, and gathering; this is now my go-to knife for everyday use over my Chef's knives. However, it does shred plastic cutting boards quickly (a good indicator of how well it cuts), and the steel rusts rather quickly; I have to dry it immediately after washing to prevent it from rusting in the dish rack.
1 people found this review helpful
Incredible knife as reviewed by Cook's Illustrated. Great for meats and veggies, crushing, and gathering; this is now my go-to knife for everyday use over my Chef's knives. However, it does shred plastic cutting boards quickly (a good indicator of how well it cuts), and the steel rusts rather quickly; I have to dry it immediately after washing to prevent it from rusting in the dish rack.
Wonderful, March 22, 2017 Arrived on time, as advertised., March 21, 2017 A little large, March 18, 2017Posted By: Frank Gargiulo - verified customer
Blade is very sharp, cuts very nice.balance is ok keeps an edge .For me I wish it was about 3 or 4 inches shorter. Im used to Hinckel knifes for the past 30 years, I purchased this knife to experiment with these type of knifes before I indulge in a more expensive model.
Blade is very sharp, cuts very nice.balance is ok keeps an edge .For me I wish it was about 3 or 4 inches shorter. Im used to Hinckel knifes for the past 30 years, I purchased this knife to experiment with these type of knifes before I indulge in a more expensive model.
CCK Small cleaver, March 9, 2017 Very sharp, nicely weighted., March 9, 2017Posted By: Lawrence Weilandw - verified customer
2 people found this review helpful
I had heard that some chefs preferred Chinese vegetable cleavers to western style chef's knives. i was skeptical, but after using this knife for a couple of weeks, I'm a believer. I'm still learning, but I find this knife comfortable and efficient.
2 people found this review helpful
I had heard that some chefs preferred Chinese vegetable cleavers to western style chef's knives. i was skeptical, but after using this knife for a couple of weeks, I'm a believer. I'm still learning, but I find this knife comfortable and efficient.
Great product - I recommend the 1303, March 8, 2017Posted By: Ben - verified customer
This was my first foray into carbon steel cleavers. I spent some time getting it ready, removed clear coat, sharpened, and treated the handle with boiled linseed oil. This knife is incredibly thin and after getting r day it's a pretty excellent knife. Much thinner than you would expect which makes it an excellent slicer. I would describe it as not mind blowing but simply better than my previous cleaver and any other I've ever used. I like it more and more the more I used it. I recommend it for sure.
This was my first foray into carbon steel cleavers. I spent some time getting it ready, removed clear coat, sharpened, and treated the handle with boiled linseed oil. This knife is incredibly thin and after getting r day it's a pretty excellent knife. Much thinner than you would expect which makes it an excellent slicer. I would describe it as not mind blowing but simply better than my previous cleaver and any other I've ever used. I like it more and more the more I used it. I recommend it for sure.
Superb little cleaver, March 8, 2017Posted By: Dan B - verified customer
I saw this reviewed in the cooking magazine Milk Street and thought I'd give a cleaver a try. I've long had a meat cleaver for hacking through bones, but had never considered a thin cleaver for veggies. And this cleaver is very thin indeed! Needs a little sharpening on arrival, but it comes alive right away and just goes through vegetables like a hot knife through butter. Very impressed. A worthy addition to any kitchen at a reasonable price.
I saw this reviewed in the cooking magazine Milk Street and thought I'd give a cleaver a try. I've long had a meat cleaver for hacking through bones, but had never considered a thin cleaver for veggies. And this cleaver is very thin indeed! Needs a little sharpening on arrival, but it comes alive right away and just goes through vegetables like a hot knife through butter. Very impressed. A worthy addition to any kitchen at a reasonable price.
my kind of knife, March 4, 2017Posted By: Bob
Yes it's pricier than some, but it's a thing of functional beauty. Excellent edge, I like the heft (more than some knives, but not too much), the stability. The wide blade is nice for scraping up the chopped veggies off the board. The slight curvature of the blade at each end works well. The visible marks of forging lend it character. It doesn't pretend to be a polished piece of chrome. Arrives sharp. The steel responds well to a sharpening stone. Some wet vegetable slices do stick to the knife a bit, but push off easily. It's a special tool for the kitchen.
Yes it's pricier than some, but it's a thing of functional beauty. Excellent edge, I like the heft (more than some knives, but not too much), the stability. The wide blade is nice for scraping up the chopped veggies off the board. The slight curvature of the blade at each end works well. The visible marks of forging lend it character. It doesn't pretend to be a polished piece of chrome. Arrives sharp. The steel responds well to a sharpening stone. Some wet vegetable slices do stick to the knife a bit, but push off easily. It's a special tool for the kitchen.
Everything I expected, February 26, 2017 New knife, February 25, 2017 Love it !, February 22, 2017Posted By: Ted Bell - verified customer
2 people found this review helpful
I saw this knife reviewed in " Milk Street" magazine and they gave nit a great review. I have many different knives but not a Chinese cleaver so I thought I'd give it a try. This is now my favorite knife. It beat out my Santoku and Nakiri knives. It is very sharp and has a SUPER thin blade so it flies through food. The handle is very basic but very comfortable and that's what counts. The high carbon steel will require a little more care, but it will take on a cool patina over time. I would recommend this to anyone that appreciates knives.
2 people found this review helpful
I saw this knife reviewed in " Milk Street" magazine and they gave nit a great review. I have many different knives but not a Chinese cleaver so I thought I'd give it a try. This is now my favorite knife. It beat out my Santoku and Nakiri knives. It is very sharp and has a SUPER thin blade so it flies through food. The handle is very basic but very comfortable and that's what counts. The high carbon steel will require a little more care, but it will take on a cool patina over time. I would recommend this to anyone that appreciates knives.
CCK, February 10, 2017 cck 1303, January 8, 2017Posted By: teofilo paulissen-dougan - verified customer
1 people found this review helpful
First, I wold like to thank Susan for her high level customer service skills and the swift despatch of the knife in record time. This is an example of how business should be done.
Despite the crude nature of how the knife was built, i still give it 5 stars because of the extreme comfort I feel when prepping. I use it mode than I use my more expensive knives. Boy, did they have comfort in mind when making this knife. With the slight heft and the thinness of the edge, it just flies through produce. I never was a cleaver guy and now I am head over hills in love. I now see why the Chinese use cleavers for everything. A crude knife that has a comfortable spine and choil; you can't ask for anything better at this price point. I also think having the knife with an option of a saya helped the push toward getting my first cleaver. Kudos to Mark for making this knife available with its authenticity laid bare.
1 people found this review helpful
First, I wold like to thank Susan for her high level customer service skills and the swift despatch of the knife in record time. This is an example of how business should be done.
Despite the crude nature of how the knife was built, i still give it 5 stars because of the extreme comfort I feel when prepping. I use it mode than I use my more expensive knives. Boy, did they have comfort in mind when making this knife. With the slight heft and the thinness of the edge, it just flies through produce. I never was a cleaver guy and now I am head over hills in love. I now see why the Chinese use cleavers for everything. A crude knife that has a comfortable spine and choil; you can't ask for anything better at this price point. I also think having the knife with an option of a saya helped the push toward getting my first cleaver. Kudos to Mark for making this knife available with its authenticity laid bare.
AWESOME, December 26, 2016 AWESOME, December 25, 2016 Cck 1303, December 1, 2016 Tons of fun, August 22, 2016Posted By: Jsgillis86
4 people found this review helpful
What a great intro to the style. Uniformly thin blade, quite light considering the size, sharpens easily, nice flat edge profile for chopping, much tougher than you'd expect. The handle and install job are kinda crude, but this knife ain't about glamour, it's about getting the job done well and not breaking the bank doing it. Even when she starts to dull her extreme thinness and the weight backing her keep her going. Fun knife. Would definitely buy again.
4 people found this review helpful
What a great intro to the style. Uniformly thin blade, quite light considering the size, sharpens easily, nice flat edge profile for chopping, much tougher than you'd expect. The handle and install job are kinda crude, but this knife ain't about glamour, it's about getting the job done well and not breaking the bank doing it. Even when she starts to dull her extreme thinness and the weight backing her keep her going. Fun knife. Would definitely buy again.
best cleaver for the $$$, August 14, 2016Posted By: kevin N
6 people found this review helpful
had this for 6 months now and i am very happy to include this into my culinary set. makes very quick work doing veggie prep and also a decent slicer. carbon steel has been very easy to maintain a sharp edge on a honing rod, i have whetstones in 5k and 10k but with this knife i found that honing rods do just fine. love that i can scoop a mass amount of product with this knife, makes life easier. but bc this is a carbon steel knife, it is very reactive and must be wiped dry after every use. this doesnt bother me one bit, although when the knife was shipped over it didnt have a very sharp ooftb edge that i was hoping for, although it was a really easy solution to fix. my only dislike of the knife is the amount of lacquer they put on the blade, i understand its for protection, just looks kinda gross and feels sticky. it can also discolor some foods, but again, you have to wipe it down when youre done using the knife. overall, this is a fantastic and practical knife to have in your set.
6 people found this review helpful
had this for 6 months now and i am very happy to include this into my culinary set. makes very quick work doing veggie prep and also a decent slicer. carbon steel has been very easy to maintain a sharp edge on a honing rod, i have whetstones in 5k and 10k but with this knife i found that honing rods do just fine. love that i can scoop a mass amount of product with this knife, makes life easier. but bc this is a carbon steel knife, it is very reactive and must be wiped dry after every use. this doesnt bother me one bit, although when the knife was shipped over it didnt have a very sharp ooftb edge that i was hoping for, although it was a really easy solution to fix. my only dislike of the knife is the amount of lacquer they put on the blade, i understand its for protection, just looks kinda gross and feels sticky. it can also discolor some foods, but again, you have to wipe it down when youre done using the knife. overall, this is a fantastic and practical knife to have in your set.
A beaut for its price, July 25, 2016Posted By: Rodrigo Batista - verified customer
3 people found this review helpful
Easily one of the best deals I've made in the last months. Great chinese cleaver for its price.
Regarding CKTG's services, I keep repeating myself: best cutomers service around... The world!
*Ps: just got another two blades. Can't wait to get them!
3 people found this review helpful
Easily one of the best deals I've made in the last months. Great chinese cleaver for its price.
Regarding CKTG's services, I keep repeating myself: best cutomers service around... The world!
*Ps: just got another two blades. Can't wait to get them!
New favorite, July 1, 2016Posted By: Jeff Boudreaux - verified customer
7 people found this review helpful
I like it better than the large cleaver because the large cleaver is blade heavy and can tire your wrist when cutting cases of vegetables. In my opinion this makes the smaller one better suited for a professional kitchen. The large one will be retired to the house.
7 people found this review helpful
I like it better than the large cleaver because the large cleaver is blade heavy and can tire your wrist when cutting cases of vegetables. In my opinion this makes the smaller one better suited for a professional kitchen. The large one will be retired to the house.
A Hong Kong Classic, June 25, 2016Posted By: Nick
5 people found this review helpful
I got mine from CCK's retail storefront in Hong Kong, but wouldn't hesitate to buy here if I were in the market for a replacement or gift. This is the real deal, a Hong Kong workhorse that you will see if you peek through kitchen windows while walking around the city.
One of the best features of the blade, which seems off-putting in a cleaver, is that it tapers to a very thin blade and edge. Because the blade is so thin, I would not recommending it for chopping bones, but as a general-purpose knife to replace most chef knife duties it is really great. Wide blade is super easy to grip and control, can scoop a lot of chopped food to transfer, and it is easy to sharpen to a ridiculously high degree. Once you've had the pleasure of working with a blade this big that can scrape hairs off your forearms, everything else is a disappointment.
I can compare this to the cheaper "No. 3" Chinese cleavers available on the web and while this is sold at a premium I don't even use the No. 3 after buying this and will probably give it away. Really good knives are one-time buys so I would always recommend getting something that you will enjoy using.
5 people found this review helpful
I got mine from CCK's retail storefront in Hong Kong, but wouldn't hesitate to buy here if I were in the market for a replacement or gift. This is the real deal, a Hong Kong workhorse that you will see if you peek through kitchen windows while walking around the city.
One of the best features of the blade, which seems off-putting in a cleaver, is that it tapers to a very thin blade and edge. Because the blade is so thin, I would not recommending it for chopping bones, but as a general-purpose knife to replace most chef knife duties it is really great. Wide blade is super easy to grip and control, can scoop a lot of chopped food to transfer, and it is easy to sharpen to a ridiculously high degree. Once you've had the pleasure of working with a blade this big that can scrape hairs off your forearms, everything else is a disappointment.
I can compare this to the cheaper "No. 3" Chinese cleavers available on the web and while this is sold at a premium I don't even use the No. 3 after buying this and will probably give it away. Really good knives are one-time buys so I would always recommend getting something that you will enjoy using.
Awesome knife, May 6, 2016Posted By: Chris
5 people found this review helpful
For the price, this is one of the best knives you can buy. Incredibly fun to use, makes quick work of anything. I've used it on chickens, carrots, squash, chiffonading parsley, sashimi, breaking down fish, onions, everything. I use it nearly every day in a professional kitchen. The edge is very quick and easy to sharpen, it holds up very well, good weight, heavy enough to assist with strong veg, but light enough to crush herbs.
5 people found this review helpful
For the price, this is one of the best knives you can buy. Incredibly fun to use, makes quick work of anything. I've used it on chickens, carrots, squash, chiffonading parsley, sashimi, breaking down fish, onions, everything. I use it nearly every day in a professional kitchen. The edge is very quick and easy to sharpen, it holds up very well, good weight, heavy enough to assist with strong veg, but light enough to crush herbs.
product review, March 17, 2015Posted By: Mark
9 people found this review helpful
I've had this knife for a little over a year. Sharpens to a great edge, pretty decent retention. I'd say mine has hit the stones twice and it sees heavy use in a busy kitchen. Both corners chipped away pretty quickly, and the edge is delicate, but as long as you use as intended, this won't be problematic.
The only time I use the handle is for chopping, and it serves its purpose very adequately. Most of the time I just hold the blade...which is really why you'd want one of these anyway. I read people note the fit and finish isn't fantastic, but I think it lends to the rustic aesthetic.
I'll probably get a second one for home use. Really solid knife, easy to use, easy to sharpen.
9 people found this review helpful
I've had this knife for a little over a year. Sharpens to a great edge, pretty decent retention. I'd say mine has hit the stones twice and it sees heavy use in a busy kitchen. Both corners chipped away pretty quickly, and the edge is delicate, but as long as you use as intended, this won't be problematic.
The only time I use the handle is for chopping, and it serves its purpose very adequately. Most of the time I just hold the blade...which is really why you'd want one of these anyway. I read people note the fit and finish isn't fantastic, but I think it lends to the rustic aesthetic.
I'll probably get a second one for home use. Really solid knife, easy to use, easy to sharpen.
Brilliant!, January 24, 2015Posted By: Anton
5 people found this review helpful
Stunning shipping! Got to the uk from the US in just two days! This is my first cleaver and thought I would give a cck a try. Love it. Sure the finish isn't the greatest, but thats not the point at this price level. A joy to use with great weight and feel. I am certainly a convert to these and it's at risk of becoming my new go to knife. Try one.
5 people found this review helpful
Stunning shipping! Got to the uk from the US in just two days! This is my first cleaver and thought I would give a cck a try. Love it. Sure the finish isn't the greatest, but thats not the point at this price level. A joy to use with great weight and feel. I am certainly a convert to these and it's at risk of becoming my new go to knife. Try one.
My favorite knife, December 14, 2014 Product Review, May 12, 2014Posted By: Bill Hartig - verified customer
5 people found this review helpful
I purchased this knife about a year ago and have since upgraded to the 1103. This knife is an absolute laser. I'm pretty sure they use magic to create the steel, pretty good retention, and so mind bogglingly thin behind the edge that after sharpening you can conceivably split atoms. Edge is easily maintained on a honing steel. Kurouchi is smooth and not at all grabby. This is the ultimate cleaver if you want to try out that technique.
5 people found this review helpful
I purchased this knife about a year ago and have since upgraded to the 1103. This knife is an absolute laser. I'm pretty sure they use magic to create the steel, pretty good retention, and so mind bogglingly thin behind the edge that after sharpening you can conceivably split atoms. Edge is easily maintained on a honing steel. Kurouchi is smooth and not at all grabby. This is the ultimate cleaver if you want to try out that technique.
Product Review, January 28, 2014Posted By: Mike - verified customer
8 people found this review helpful
Cleaver is great, very thin behind the edge. The steel is on the reactive side of the spectrum. Take that with a grain of salt though as my only experience with carbon steel has been with old french carbon steel knives and they didn't react as much. Speaking of those old knives, I love their look so I removed the lacquer on this knife with acetone and then sanded off the finish. Stained the knife brown with an apple cider vinegar soak followed by a rinse in hot water. Scrubbed the loose oxide off and now my knife looks like it is a hundred years old. I wouldn't recommend doing that to your knife if it is to be your go to knife. Removing the lacquer will leave more of the taste of iron on reactive foods. It diminishes with wear, but it will always be there and it is much more noticeable with the lacquer off. Not a big deal on potatoes that you cook or on onions that have such a strong taste, but it is quite noticeable on something like an apple slice.
8 people found this review helpful
Cleaver is great, very thin behind the edge. The steel is on the reactive side of the spectrum. Take that with a grain of salt though as my only experience with carbon steel has been with old french carbon steel knives and they didn't react as much. Speaking of those old knives, I love their look so I removed the lacquer on this knife with acetone and then sanded off the finish. Stained the knife brown with an apple cider vinegar soak followed by a rinse in hot water. Scrubbed the loose oxide off and now my knife looks like it is a hundred years old. I wouldn't recommend doing that to your knife if it is to be your go to knife. Removing the lacquer will leave more of the taste of iron on reactive foods. It diminishes with wear, but it will always be there and it is much more noticeable with the lacquer off. Not a big deal on potatoes that you cook or on onions that have such a strong taste, but it is quite noticeable on something like an apple slice.
Product Review, January 7, 2014Posted By: James Piazzola - verified customer
8 people found this review helpful
I'm sorry to be a downer, I have other knives from you I love but this one is a big disappointment. It chips way too easily. The edge on ours looks like a saw blade and we take very good care of it, no rust, but the edge is badly chipped. We have not used it as a cleaver...only to cut. Maybe I just got a bad one.
8 people found this review helpful
I'm sorry to be a downer, I have other knives from you I love but this one is a big disappointment. It chips way too easily. The edge on ours looks like a saw blade and we take very good care of it, no rust, but the edge is badly chipped. We have not used it as a cleaver...only to cut. Maybe I just got a bad one.
Product Review, December 7, 2013 Product Review, September 25, 2013Posted By: jake - verified customer
5 people found this review helpful
this knife is a steal. its my first chinese style cleaver and i love it. feels good in hand. not quite so small. the saya (unfortunately almost the price of the knife) is also a very nice piece. very sturdy
5 people found this review helpful
this knife is a steal. its my first chinese style cleaver and i love it. feels good in hand. not quite so small. the saya (unfortunately almost the price of the knife) is also a very nice piece. very sturdy
Product Review, July 4, 2013Posted By: Harrison - verified customer
5 people found this review helpful
Cleaver very sharp right out of the box. Hit it on a 10k just to be safe. Has become my go to veg knife. It is a wonderful intro cleaver. I am already planning buying another cleaver. My only complaint is the barrel handle. But what do you expect for 40 bucks. Wonderful knife. I would buy it again.
5 people found this review helpful
Cleaver very sharp right out of the box. Hit it on a 10k just to be safe. Has become my go to veg knife. It is a wonderful intro cleaver. I am already planning buying another cleaver. My only complaint is the barrel handle. But what do you expect for 40 bucks. Wonderful knife. I would buy it again.
Product Review, June 21, 2013Posted By: Palaia - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
Great utility knife. Light and nimble and best of all it's carbon. Had to tweak it a bit on my stones to get the edge I am used to. Great all around knife and an excellent choice for anyone's first foray into the world of Chinese style cutlery.
6 people found this review helpful
Great utility knife. Light and nimble and best of all it's carbon. Had to tweak it a bit on my stones to get the edge I am used to. Great all around knife and an excellent choice for anyone's first foray into the world of Chinese style cutlery.
Product Review, July 12, 2012Posted By: P.W. - verified customer
5 people found this review helpful
Might not be the prettiest knife on the planet, but it makes up for it in outstanding performance. Takes a great edge, a breeze to sharpen, and stands up to hours upon hours of being brutalized in every manner possible in a professional kitchen.
5 people found this review helpful
Might not be the prettiest knife on the planet, but it makes up for it in outstanding performance. Takes a great edge, a breeze to sharpen, and stands up to hours upon hours of being brutalized in every manner possible in a professional kitchen.
Product Review, July 11, 2012Posted By: adam a - verified customer
8 people found this review helpful
i was disapointed with the sharpness. It works fine but dont expect effortless cutting. this knife is just as sharp as my victronix chef knife but nowhere near a higher quality knife. i really dont enjoy using it and use it to cut big things mainly like a block of butter or if i really need to beat up on something.
8 people found this review helpful
i was disapointed with the sharpness. It works fine but dont expect effortless cutting. this knife is just as sharp as my victronix chef knife but nowhere near a higher quality knife. i really dont enjoy using it and use it to cut big things mainly like a block of butter or if i really need to beat up on something.
Product Review, June 12, 2012Posted By: mrsupport - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
Not a premium cleaver but a superior kitchen tool. All I did was strop it on leather to achieve an excellent edge. This cleaver/knife is becoming my new goto chef knife. Today it amazed me cutting a whole watermelon easier than any other knife I ever used. Why care about average looks?
6 people found this review helpful
Not a premium cleaver but a superior kitchen tool. All I did was strop it on leather to achieve an excellent edge. This cleaver/knife is becoming my new goto chef knife. Today it amazed me cutting a whole watermelon easier than any other knife I ever used. Why care about average looks?
Product Review, June 4, 2012 Product Review, May 22, 2012Posted By: John - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
Great knife, Razor sharp. Nice wooden handle although total knife weight is pretty light would like to have a little more weight. Had to re adjust while cutting from a french chef's knife. But I love this knife does its job.
6 people found this review helpful
Great knife, Razor sharp. Nice wooden handle although total knife weight is pretty light would like to have a little more weight. Had to re adjust while cutting from a french chef's knife. But I love this knife does its job.
Product Review, May 19, 2012Posted By: Arthur - verified customer
5 people found this review helpful
Bought this as an all-purpose knife; was raised in a chinese household, so I prefer the feel of this cleaver. As other people said, the blade is very thin, and it is carbon steel, so it does require some extra care. This knife is fantastic to use for veggies, and it's easy and quick to sharpen. For the price, there's no better bargain if you're looking for this kind of knife. I highly recommend this knife.
5 people found this review helpful
Bought this as an all-purpose knife; was raised in a chinese household, so I prefer the feel of this cleaver. As other people said, the blade is very thin, and it is carbon steel, so it does require some extra care. This knife is fantastic to use for veggies, and it's easy and quick to sharpen. For the price, there's no better bargain if you're looking for this kind of knife. I highly recommend this knife.
Product Review, February 21, 2012Posted By: Len Thiel - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
OK, I don't know anything about knives. When I retired, I decided to take a cooking class. She said the CCK 1303 was the nu plus ultra of Chinese Cleavers. Since I was a young man, I have put up with using dull knives and hating the process of trying to hack through vegetables and making a mess of every attempt. With this cleaver, not only is every cut clean and precise, it is just a joy to work with. If you are tired of stainless steel knives that don't hold an edge, this is the vegetable cleaver for you! Buy one and see if I'm not right.
6 people found this review helpful
OK, I don't know anything about knives. When I retired, I decided to take a cooking class. She said the CCK 1303 was the nu plus ultra of Chinese Cleavers. Since I was a young man, I have put up with using dull knives and hating the process of trying to hack through vegetables and making a mess of every attempt. With this cleaver, not only is every cut clean and precise, it is just a joy to work with. If you are tired of stainless steel knives that don't hold an edge, this is the vegetable cleaver for you! Buy one and see if I'm not right.
Product Review, January 29, 2012Posted By: Cory - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
Love this thing! was my first cleaver and i gotta say this thing takes a wicked edge! just a quick run on a 1k Arashiyama and a hone on an 8k Kitayama and it push cuts newspaper / printer paper and rips through veggies with a purpose! would recommend this knife to anyone.
6 people found this review helpful
Love this thing! was my first cleaver and i gotta say this thing takes a wicked edge! just a quick run on a 1k Arashiyama and a hone on an 8k Kitayama and it push cuts newspaper / printer paper and rips through veggies with a purpose! would recommend this knife to anyone.
Product Review, January 25, 2012Posted By: Jeremy - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
For the forty dollars I spent on it, I really love this knife! I've purchased other Chinese cleaver, but I've never been able to find one with such a thin blade. It makes for an awesome slicer. The steel takes a pretty steep, refined edge and holds it well. After several nights of moderate to heavy home use, the blade still shaves the hair off my arm after a bit of stropping. The only issue I've had with it is chipping of the blade. After dicing some sweet potatoes with it (yea, probably a dumb idea to begin with - I almost went with a heftier knife, but decided to test the cck instead)there were several small chips all along the length of the edge. I sharpened it at 15 degrees per side, so that may have contributed to the problem. The blade was still shaving sharp except for the chipped areas, though!
6 people found this review helpful
For the forty dollars I spent on it, I really love this knife! I've purchased other Chinese cleaver, but I've never been able to find one with such a thin blade. It makes for an awesome slicer. The steel takes a pretty steep, refined edge and holds it well. After several nights of moderate to heavy home use, the blade still shaves the hair off my arm after a bit of stropping. The only issue I've had with it is chipping of the blade. After dicing some sweet potatoes with it (yea, probably a dumb idea to begin with - I almost went with a heftier knife, but decided to test the cck instead)there were several small chips all along the length of the edge. I sharpened it at 15 degrees per side, so that may have contributed to the problem. The blade was still shaving sharp except for the chipped areas, though!
Product Review, January 12, 2012Posted By: Lloyd Bruney - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
I heard about this cleaver on Kitchen Knife Forums. I received it as a Christmas gift and was thrilled with the sharpness out of the box! The cleaver is rustic, and I wish I could have afforded the custom handle. I feel that it would have been worth the upgrade. However, the standard handle is sufficient. The cleaver is worthy of a custom handle! As stated earlier, it was sharp out of the box. Once it was put on the stones, it became extremely sharp and it is a fantastic knife!
6 people found this review helpful
I heard about this cleaver on Kitchen Knife Forums. I received it as a Christmas gift and was thrilled with the sharpness out of the box! The cleaver is rustic, and I wish I could have afforded the custom handle. I feel that it would have been worth the upgrade. However, the standard handle is sufficient. The cleaver is worthy of a custom handle! As stated earlier, it was sharp out of the box. Once it was put on the stones, it became extremely sharp and it is a fantastic knife!
Product Review, January 6, 2012Posted By: Keith - verified customer
7 people found this review helpful
I must say it is a rough finish,but an outstanding production blade.It is thin esp. at the tip,I put a double blended shinoge line on the edge,very sharp.I also like the rocker on this cleaver some have too much,& I dont like the totally straight ones either.The gentle rocker of this vegitable cleaver puts alot of blade edge on the board making it good for chopping & forward push cuts as well.If you do not mind it's rough looks & the little extra care of carbon,you cannot lose at this price.
7 people found this review helpful
I must say it is a rough finish,but an outstanding production blade.It is thin esp. at the tip,I put a double blended shinoge line on the edge,very sharp.I also like the rocker on this cleaver some have too much,& I dont like the totally straight ones either.The gentle rocker of this vegitable cleaver puts alot of blade edge on the board making it good for chopping & forward push cuts as well.If you do not mind it's rough looks & the little extra care of carbon,you cannot lose at this price.
Product Review, January 1, 2012Posted By: James B - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
Awesome tool!! I am a chef and one of my coworkers recommended this cleaver and I got one from CKTG. It holds a really great edge, it's great with vegetables, and it is so big you can use it as a board scraper. You will enjoy this cleaver for sure!
6 people found this review helpful
Awesome tool!! I am a chef and one of my coworkers recommended this cleaver and I got one from CKTG. It holds a really great edge, it's great with vegetables, and it is so big you can use it as a board scraper. You will enjoy this cleaver for sure!
Product Review, December 23, 2011Posted By: Brandon - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
love the knife for all the right reasons. good price, holds an edge wonderfully and sharpens easily, now i just have to get used to a chinese chef knife, but so far for prep alone i love the multi-tasking ability of the knife. not to mention the quality service of CKTG.
6 people found this review helpful
love the knife for all the right reasons. good price, holds an edge wonderfully and sharpens easily, now i just have to get used to a chinese chef knife, but so far for prep alone i love the multi-tasking ability of the knife. not to mention the quality service of CKTG.
Product Review, September 23, 2011Posted By: Coulter Kirkpatrick - verified customer
7 people found this review helpful
I originally bought this for my Taiwanese mom-in-law whose decreasing strength made her long ago retire her crude heavy chinese cleaver. I have a Chan Chi Kee #3 large cleaver that I love and use extensively, esp. when faced with large amounts of asian root vegetables. However I've found the #3 small cleaver is very well-balanced, agile, and makes short work of small veggies and herbs. AND it looks awfully cool. So, I've selfishly decided to keep the it for myself and maybe order another for mom-in-law or perhaps a Nakiri. While I've found Chan Chi Kees are extremely sharp right out-of-the-box, they can be sharpened to razor sharpness. And they have a big WOW factor for easily impressed foodies when you hang them on a magnetic strip next to your Japanese, German, French and other kitchen knives. Seriously though, if you're toying with the idea of a chinese cleaver, they are awesome tools and Chan Chi Kees are the best.
7 people found this review helpful
I originally bought this for my Taiwanese mom-in-law whose decreasing strength made her long ago retire her crude heavy chinese cleaver. I have a Chan Chi Kee #3 large cleaver that I love and use extensively, esp. when faced with large amounts of asian root vegetables. However I've found the #3 small cleaver is very well-balanced, agile, and makes short work of small veggies and herbs. AND it looks awfully cool. So, I've selfishly decided to keep the it for myself and maybe order another for mom-in-law or perhaps a Nakiri. While I've found Chan Chi Kees are extremely sharp right out-of-the-box, they can be sharpened to razor sharpness. And they have a big WOW factor for easily impressed foodies when you hang them on a magnetic strip next to your Japanese, German, French and other kitchen knives. Seriously though, if you're toying with the idea of a chinese cleaver, they are awesome tools and Chan Chi Kees are the best.
Product Review, September 14, 2011Posted By: Jack - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
5 stars, particularly for value. Not bad fit and finish out of the box. Haven't had a chance to sharpen it yet but it is a great knife, fun to use, and will only get better once it sees the stone.
6 people found this review helpful
5 stars, particularly for value. Not bad fit and finish out of the box. Haven't had a chance to sharpen it yet but it is a great knife, fun to use, and will only get better once it sees the stone.
Product Review, September 1, 2011Posted By: MXM - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
I didn't really know what to expect when I ordered this knife. It was an impulse buy. It comes nicely sharpened and looks awesome hanging on my magnetic knife strip. So far I have used it to chop up vegetables and apples. It is comfortable to use and is a nice option to have in my knife collection.
6 people found this review helpful
I didn't really know what to expect when I ordered this knife. It was an impulse buy. It comes nicely sharpened and looks awesome hanging on my magnetic knife strip. So far I have used it to chop up vegetables and apples. It is comfortable to use and is a nice option to have in my knife collection.
Product Review, August 4, 2011 Product Review, June 23, 2011Posted By: Bill - verified customer
5 people found this review helpful
Order arrived quickly and the order experience was excellent. I grew up in a rural area where functional wood handles and non stainless steel butcher and pocket knives were normal. I have a few that are 60 or more years old and still work fine. But they need to be kept relatively clean and dry when not in use. This cleaver is sharp and has easily cut everything I've used it for. I like the height that keeps fingers away from what is being cut and the shape that allows putting pressure on the front top. I like it for pizzas better than the rolling style cutters.
5 people found this review helpful
Order arrived quickly and the order experience was excellent. I grew up in a rural area where functional wood handles and non stainless steel butcher and pocket knives were normal. I have a few that are 60 or more years old and still work fine. But they need to be kept relatively clean and dry when not in use. This cleaver is sharp and has easily cut everything I've used it for. I like the height that keeps fingers away from what is being cut and the shape that allows putting pressure on the front top. I like it for pizzas better than the rolling style cutters.
Product Review, May 26, 2011Posted By: Andrew - verified customer
7 people found this review helpful
This knife arrived today, so I have only a dinner's worth of experience to review... But I'm crazy for this cleaver. The handle is rustic but flawless, in this case. The blade thin and sharp and made very short work of some very precise cuts of veggies. Being a vegetarian, I won't test on proteins as the word is used in culinary circles. But this thing is super sharp, super easy to handle, unbelievably well priced for wat I have. It seems robust enough, too, though I won't test it as a lobster cracker or some such thing. When I get my sharpening skills together I can review it from that side, too... but given that it's an inexpensive carbon-steel cleaver, it promises to be one of the easier knives in my collection in this regard, too. Thanks!
7 people found this review helpful
This knife arrived today, so I have only a dinner's worth of experience to review... But I'm crazy for this cleaver. The handle is rustic but flawless, in this case. The blade thin and sharp and made very short work of some very precise cuts of veggies. Being a vegetarian, I won't test on proteins as the word is used in culinary circles. But this thing is super sharp, super easy to handle, unbelievably well priced for wat I have. It seems robust enough, too, though I won't test it as a lobster cracker or some such thing. When I get my sharpening skills together I can review it from that side, too... but given that it's an inexpensive carbon-steel cleaver, it promises to be one of the easier knives in my collection in this regard, too. Thanks!
Product Review, May 10, 2011 Product Review, May 6, 2011Posted By: DennisL - verified customer
7 people found this review helpful
If you have been on the fence about getting this item, just do it! You will not regret. 5 star is for the value of the price/performance. I spray painted mine with the black pasticote style paint from Lowes.
7 people found this review helpful
If you have been on the fence about getting this item, just do it! You will not regret. 5 star is for the value of the price/performance. I spray painted mine with the black pasticote style paint from Lowes.
Product Review, April 22, 2011Posted By: chobint - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
This is an excellent knife that gets very sharp on the chosera outfitted edge pro that I bought along with it. The blade seems to be mostly happy with the screaming sharp 12 degree primary edge I put on it. However at 12 degrees, I find that the blade needs a run across the steel about every 45 min of service to keep it scary sharp. After putting a microbevel on the blade, I find that the edge stability is much better without any sacrifice in sharpness (reducing the need to steel). Minus one star for lacquered blade and a handle that still looks ugly even when drowned in mineral oil. On a final note, this blade is a great value well deserving of it's cult status on the cutlery forums. If you want to watch vegetables melt before you, this knife is a great starting point.
6 people found this review helpful
This is an excellent knife that gets very sharp on the chosera outfitted edge pro that I bought along with it. The blade seems to be mostly happy with the screaming sharp 12 degree primary edge I put on it. However at 12 degrees, I find that the blade needs a run across the steel about every 45 min of service to keep it scary sharp. After putting a microbevel on the blade, I find that the edge stability is much better without any sacrifice in sharpness (reducing the need to steel). Minus one star for lacquered blade and a handle that still looks ugly even when drowned in mineral oil. On a final note, this blade is a great value well deserving of it's cult status on the cutlery forums. If you want to watch vegetables melt before you, this knife is a great starting point.
Product Review, April 12, 2011Posted By: Marc T - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
I've been using the blade for about a week, and I love it. Light and comfortable, then and great for slicing and chopping.
There are two minor complaints. One is the decision to round out the edge. Though they justify this by saying the edge would otherwise catch on the cutting board, that's really only a result of improper use. I think a flat edge is better on a cleaver, because when you're chopping fast you don't want the outer edges of the blade to leave ingredients uncut.
The second is in how well the edge holds. It does well for the value, but if you're using the knife in a professional environment, heavy use will quickly dull the blade. If this is important to you, invest in a Japanese-made Chinese chef's knife, though if you're only using this at home I doubt you'll have anything to complain about!
For 35 bucks though, these complaints are really minor...
6 people found this review helpful
I've been using the blade for about a week, and I love it. Light and comfortable, then and great for slicing and chopping.
There are two minor complaints. One is the decision to round out the edge. Though they justify this by saying the edge would otherwise catch on the cutting board, that's really only a result of improper use. I think a flat edge is better on a cleaver, because when you're chopping fast you don't want the outer edges of the blade to leave ingredients uncut.
The second is in how well the edge holds. It does well for the value, but if you're using the knife in a professional environment, heavy use will quickly dull the blade. If this is important to you, invest in a Japanese-made Chinese chef's knife, though if you're only using this at home I doubt you'll have anything to complain about!
For 35 bucks though, these complaints are really minor...
Product Review, March 30, 2011 Product Review, February 7, 2011Posted By: JeffS - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
I ordered one to see what everyone was talking about. After about a year of using mine I can say that I love it.
Love the profile on the blade. Thinned mine just a little and couldn't be happier for the price.
Holds a nice sharp edge, and I smile ever time it falls cleanly though carrots and onions.
6 people found this review helpful
I ordered one to see what everyone was talking about. After about a year of using mine I can say that I love it.
Love the profile on the blade. Thinned mine just a little and couldn't be happier for the price.
Holds a nice sharp edge, and I smile ever time it falls cleanly though carrots and onions.
Product Review, January 20, 2011Posted By: Haifeng Jiang - verified customer
7 people found this review helpful
This knife is ok, if you really want a Chinese cleaver, buy other models, not this one, the blade is as thin as a piece of paper, which a real Chinese cleaver will never be like. I grew up in China, the real cleavers all have thin edge, but the back spine is usually pretty thick, I'd say at least 3 times thicker than the edge part, that gives the cleaver a very good feeling. Well the CCK is just too thin all over the blade which makes it too light to handel. Other than that, the knife is built with ok quality, the blade body is not flat, the edge is not straight, the handel is cheap, I have to say I'm really disappointed with it. It's not even as good as the one I use to have, and I got it from a local blacksmith in a really small town where I grew up. I'd say that one is at least 3 times better and the price is 10 times cheaper.
7 people found this review helpful
This knife is ok, if you really want a Chinese cleaver, buy other models, not this one, the blade is as thin as a piece of paper, which a real Chinese cleaver will never be like. I grew up in China, the real cleavers all have thin edge, but the back spine is usually pretty thick, I'd say at least 3 times thicker than the edge part, that gives the cleaver a very good feeling. Well the CCK is just too thin all over the blade which makes it too light to handel. Other than that, the knife is built with ok quality, the blade body is not flat, the edge is not straight, the handel is cheap, I have to say I'm really disappointed with it. It's not even as good as the one I use to have, and I got it from a local blacksmith in a really small town where I grew up. I'd say that one is at least 3 times better and the price is 10 times cheaper.
Product Review, January 18, 2011 Product Review, January 18, 2011Posted By: chris - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
Being forewarned that the fit and finish of this knife was sub-par, I have to say that bang for buck, this knife cannot be touched. It holds a true razor edge, and is very versatile and fun as heck!
6 people found this review helpful
Being forewarned that the fit and finish of this knife was sub-par, I have to say that bang for buck, this knife cannot be touched. It holds a true razor edge, and is very versatile and fun as heck!
Product Review, December 29, 2010Posted By: M - verified customer
7 people found this review helpful
After i got this knife I was surprised at how much faster I rip through prep work. the knife is amazing and I recommend it to everyone. sure it looks like someone hammered a railroad spike to make a knife but it works. The only reason i give it a 4 and not a five is that the blade needed a sharpening when it arrived, but after I took it to a wet stone I have not had a better knife ever. This is always welcome on the line with me.
7 people found this review helpful
After i got this knife I was surprised at how much faster I rip through prep work. the knife is amazing and I recommend it to everyone. sure it looks like someone hammered a railroad spike to make a knife but it works. The only reason i give it a 4 and not a five is that the blade needed a sharpening when it arrived, but after I took it to a wet stone I have not had a better knife ever. This is always welcome on the line with me.
Product Review, December 24, 2010Posted By: Jacob MacGown - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
I bought this knife for an experiment on the different styles of chef knife and cooking around the world. i have to say after trying the standard french knife, the gyuto, the santoku, and the american chef knife. this knife takes the cake. after getting this i have never worked faster and more accurate on the line. i love the weight and the length of the handle. it's short but the way a knife is supposed to be held it's perfect. sure handle is unfinished and the blade looks like someone took a steel train rail and turned it into a knife but that adds to the character. and personally who cares about what the knife looks like as long as it performs well. i love this knife and it is always welcome on the line at work
6 people found this review helpful
I bought this knife for an experiment on the different styles of chef knife and cooking around the world. i have to say after trying the standard french knife, the gyuto, the santoku, and the american chef knife. this knife takes the cake. after getting this i have never worked faster and more accurate on the line. i love the weight and the length of the handle. it's short but the way a knife is supposed to be held it's perfect. sure handle is unfinished and the blade looks like someone took a steel train rail and turned it into a knife but that adds to the character. and personally who cares about what the knife looks like as long as it performs well. i love this knife and it is always welcome on the line at work
Product Review, December 23, 2010 Product Review, December 12, 2010Posted By: Cameron Gunn - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
I doubt You could find a better veg cleaver for even twice the money. Yes, it's rustic with its kurouchi-esq finish and raw wood handle, but this is a serious chunk of steel that will take a very keen edge. It's thin, lite, and makes me want to make dishes that require a lot of fussy veg prep. It's straight high carbon, and mine's starting to patina, but this knife is all about performance, not looks. Did I mention that it's a breeze to sharpen too? I'm only deducting a star for the unfinished handle.
6 people found this review helpful
I doubt You could find a better veg cleaver for even twice the money. Yes, it's rustic with its kurouchi-esq finish and raw wood handle, but this is a serious chunk of steel that will take a very keen edge. It's thin, lite, and makes me want to make dishes that require a lot of fussy veg prep. It's straight high carbon, and mine's starting to patina, but this knife is all about performance, not looks. Did I mention that it's a breeze to sharpen too? I'm only deducting a star for the unfinished handle.
Product Review, November 3, 2010Posted By: Alou - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
Got mine in the mail today, was a bit nervous after seeing reviews saying they got bent tips, edges, got it out of the box and was pleasantly surprised. Looks good to me, decently sharp, feels great in my hand, puts my chefs knife to shame. A great knife even better that it was cheap.
6 people found this review helpful
Got mine in the mail today, was a bit nervous after seeing reviews saying they got bent tips, edges, got it out of the box and was pleasantly surprised. Looks good to me, decently sharp, feels great in my hand, puts my chefs knife to shame. A great knife even better that it was cheap.
Product Review, October 5, 2010Posted By: Ed - verified customer
10 people found this review helpful
you know, I read the reviews about the fit/finish. I was hesitant as this was also my first carbon knife. Wow, Mark got me a nice one and it is great. Thin! Sharp! I'm using it as my primary knife now. What a deal for the price.
10 people found this review helpful
you know, I read the reviews about the fit/finish. I was hesitant as this was also my first carbon knife. Wow, Mark got me a nice one and it is great. Thin! Sharp! I'm using it as my primary knife now. What a deal for the price.
Product Review, September 26, 2010 Product Review, September 23, 2010Posted By: Ryan - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
This cleaver is pretty awesome. The thin blade is great for all veggies, I use it for precise cuts on carrots, brunoise of shallots, chiffonade of herbs. It does the range of work I need it to do. I am still thrown off by its balance but can't set it down. This thing has earned a place in my knife roll.
6 people found this review helpful
This cleaver is pretty awesome. The thin blade is great for all veggies, I use it for precise cuts on carrots, brunoise of shallots, chiffonade of herbs. It does the range of work I need it to do. I am still thrown off by its balance but can't set it down. This thing has earned a place in my knife roll.
Product Review, September 20, 2010 Product Review, September 15, 2010Posted By: Andre - verified customer
5 people found this review helpful
For the price I don't think it can be beat.
Edge shape is pretty flat and makes sharpening easy. Handle was good, I just added a thin coat of wax.
It was also a bit bigger than I expected, and I'm glad I didn't get the larger CCK on here as I think it would have been too big for my needs.
5 people found this review helpful
For the price I don't think it can be beat.
Edge shape is pretty flat and makes sharpening easy. Handle was good, I just added a thin coat of wax.
It was also a bit bigger than I expected, and I'm glad I didn't get the larger CCK on here as I think it would have been too big for my needs.
Product Review, August 21, 2010 Product Review, August 6, 2010Posted By: Sam - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
This cleaver may be small when compared to their large cleaver, but at 8+ inches, it dwarfs my German meat cleaver. The balance and heft is perfect, though. It's already an extension of my hand.
Let me add myself to the 'looks rustic' crowd. It looks like a lawnmower blade thinned to cardstock proportions, but oh, is it ever sharp. Out of the box, it was as sharp as I've ever gotten a knife, though I will have to smooth the secondary bevel to make the knife really perform. That said, tomatoes, onions, rhubarb, carrots, celery, all fell to this new weapon today. It's also very good for firm cheese and chocolate.
The one problem is that it practically takes two hands to release it from the magnetic knife strip, but I'll get used to that.
I may be done with Stain resistant steel forever. Even with the rustic finish, I prefer this look to the shiny blades right next to it.
Thanks, Mark for providing this service so well. Once again I had my knife less than 72 hours after ordering, and I live 1000 miles away.
6 people found this review helpful
This cleaver may be small when compared to their large cleaver, but at 8+ inches, it dwarfs my German meat cleaver. The balance and heft is perfect, though. It's already an extension of my hand.
Let me add myself to the 'looks rustic' crowd. It looks like a lawnmower blade thinned to cardstock proportions, but oh, is it ever sharp. Out of the box, it was as sharp as I've ever gotten a knife, though I will have to smooth the secondary bevel to make the knife really perform. That said, tomatoes, onions, rhubarb, carrots, celery, all fell to this new weapon today. It's also very good for firm cheese and chocolate.
The one problem is that it practically takes two hands to release it from the magnetic knife strip, but I'll get used to that.
I may be done with Stain resistant steel forever. Even with the rustic finish, I prefer this look to the shiny blades right next to it.
Thanks, Mark for providing this service so well. Once again I had my knife less than 72 hours after ordering, and I live 1000 miles away.
Product Review, July 8, 2010Posted By: Simon - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
Oustanding knife from CCK. Shipped promptly all the way to Ireland. Makes veg prep a breeze, but used it for slicing meat wafer thin too! Got a present of a Damascus steel blade from my Girlfriend and shes not impressed that my little cleaver is never out of my hand. @ $29 you just cant go wrong!
6 people found this review helpful
Oustanding knife from CCK. Shipped promptly all the way to Ireland. Makes veg prep a breeze, but used it for slicing meat wafer thin too! Got a present of a Damascus steel blade from my Girlfriend and shes not impressed that my little cleaver is never out of my hand. @ $29 you just cant go wrong!
Product Review, June 29, 2010 Product Review, June 25, 2010Posted By: c9 - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
Its dirt cheap, and its great too. Thanks to its extremely thin grind, it can perform on par with many Japanese knives, but it can be a bit lacking in edge retention and might not support as acute of an angle. If you're looking for a fun toy to play with, this one is highly recommended.
6 people found this review helpful
Its dirt cheap, and its great too. Thanks to its extremely thin grind, it can perform on par with many Japanese knives, but it can be a bit lacking in edge retention and might not support as acute of an angle. If you're looking for a fun toy to play with, this one is highly recommended.
Product Review, June 15, 2010 Product Review, June 1, 2010Posted By: Bryan G - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
If you want to try a cleaver out to get a change from the standard chef/gyuto ... this is the one. There is a reason these things have a cult following. The finish on these are pretty poor as mentioned elsewhere. They look like they were hand made in a back room. With that said, for the money I doubt you could get better. The profile is fantastic, the steel is good solid performing Carbon in terms of sharpness, edge retention and ease of sharpening. And personally I prefer a nice patina over scuffed up stainless. If you can't keep your knife clean and dry you should be shopping BB&B for kitchen aid knives. Just my two sense. I am always telling Mark to rehandle some of the cheaper knives and sell them for a little more. This is one of those knives. If it have a better finished handle I would spend 50-60$ for this knife. This gets 4 stars based solely on the price. I would give it 3 if priced higher, but for 30$ the rough finish is acceptable.
Thanks to my cleaver buddy Salar B. for purchasing this for me. I thought my small was a good size but it's nothing to the Large CCK he has. Thanks again buddy.
6 people found this review helpful
If you want to try a cleaver out to get a change from the standard chef/gyuto ... this is the one. There is a reason these things have a cult following. The finish on these are pretty poor as mentioned elsewhere. They look like they were hand made in a back room. With that said, for the money I doubt you could get better. The profile is fantastic, the steel is good solid performing Carbon in terms of sharpness, edge retention and ease of sharpening. And personally I prefer a nice patina over scuffed up stainless. If you can't keep your knife clean and dry you should be shopping BB&B for kitchen aid knives. Just my two sense. I am always telling Mark to rehandle some of the cheaper knives and sell them for a little more. This is one of those knives. If it have a better finished handle I would spend 50-60$ for this knife. This gets 4 stars based solely on the price. I would give it 3 if priced higher, but for 30$ the rough finish is acceptable.
Thanks to my cleaver buddy Salar B. for purchasing this for me. I thought my small was a good size but it's nothing to the Large CCK he has. Thanks again buddy.
Product Review, May 20, 2010Posted By: Richard - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
This is my second purchase and thus second review. I like to add that I have switched from the Dexter-Russell Chinese Chef's knife to this CCK KF1303 knife as my main knife. They are both good knives, but KF 1303 has two big advantages. First, KF1303 can make thin and precise cuts because it is a much thinner blade knife. Second, the knife can be easily sharpened (thinner blade) and it remains sharp longer for it is made from harder steel knife.
Buyers should be aware that this KF1303 is a carbon steel knife, so it can rust and it does require more care than a stainless steel knife. In addition, it is a thin blade knife, so it cannot work on heavy duty stuffs.
The knife is just great, especially for its ridiculous low price. It out-performs knives which are twice and three times of its price.
6 people found this review helpful
This is my second purchase and thus second review. I like to add that I have switched from the Dexter-Russell Chinese Chef's knife to this CCK KF1303 knife as my main knife. They are both good knives, but KF 1303 has two big advantages. First, KF1303 can make thin and precise cuts because it is a much thinner blade knife. Second, the knife can be easily sharpened (thinner blade) and it remains sharp longer for it is made from harder steel knife.
Buyers should be aware that this KF1303 is a carbon steel knife, so it can rust and it does require more care than a stainless steel knife. In addition, it is a thin blade knife, so it cannot work on heavy duty stuffs.
The knife is just great, especially for its ridiculous low price. It out-performs knives which are twice and three times of its price.
Product Review, May 12, 2010Posted By: chooch - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
This knife is by far one of the best knives for the money. I have owned several Chinese cleavers and it out performs all of them. BUY THIS KNIFE!!!!! Also the whole process of ordering and shipping was a breeze here, and was very prompt. The package took only three days to arrive.
6 people found this review helpful
This knife is by far one of the best knives for the money. I have owned several Chinese cleavers and it out performs all of them. BUY THIS KNIFE!!!!! Also the whole process of ordering and shipping was a breeze here, and was very prompt. The package took only three days to arrive.
Product Review, April 22, 2010 Product Review, March 24, 2010Posted By: dbmiller5 - verified customer
7 people found this review helpful
What a fun knife to use!! It takes an edge very easily and is a joy to sharpen. Since I received this knife, I have used it for just about everything I do in the kitchen.
It makes food prep fun again.
As others have said, the fit and finish of this knife is not good, but for the price, you just cant beat it.
7 people found this review helpful
What a fun knife to use!! It takes an edge very easily and is a joy to sharpen. Since I received this knife, I have used it for just about everything I do in the kitchen.
It makes food prep fun again.
As others have said, the fit and finish of this knife is not good, but for the price, you just cant beat it.
Product Review, March 3, 2010 Product Review, March 1, 2010Posted By: T - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
I grew up in a household that almost exclusively used this kind of knife in the kitchen, so I was ecstatic when I found this particular knife online. Kudos to this company for doing its research! The CCK small carbon steel cleaver is an unlovely knife, but it is a workhorse when it comes to vegetable prep. It is also offered at an awesome price here. The blade is thin, easy to sharpen, and even for my small hands the handle fits comfortably. I used to always use a chef's knife when dicing onions and slicing tomatoes instead of my old $4 (now retired) Chinese vegetable cleaver which had a thicker blade, but this one glides through with no wedging. This knife has not let me down yet! If you're looking for an entry-level Chinese cleaver for slicing and general vegetable prep that won't break the bank but will introduce you to what this type of knife excels at, the CCK KF 1303 is for you. Just make sure you're willing to deal with extra hassle that comes along with carbon steel knife maintenance.
6 people found this review helpful
I grew up in a household that almost exclusively used this kind of knife in the kitchen, so I was ecstatic when I found this particular knife online. Kudos to this company for doing its research! The CCK small carbon steel cleaver is an unlovely knife, but it is a workhorse when it comes to vegetable prep. It is also offered at an awesome price here. The blade is thin, easy to sharpen, and even for my small hands the handle fits comfortably. I used to always use a chef's knife when dicing onions and slicing tomatoes instead of my old $4 (now retired) Chinese vegetable cleaver which had a thicker blade, but this one glides through with no wedging. This knife has not let me down yet! If you're looking for an entry-level Chinese cleaver for slicing and general vegetable prep that won't break the bank but will introduce you to what this type of knife excels at, the CCK KF 1303 is for you. Just make sure you're willing to deal with extra hassle that comes along with carbon steel knife maintenance.
Product Review, February 21, 2010Posted By: Richard - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
The CCK KF 1303 is a very thin blade Chinese carbon steel chef's knife. Because it is a carbon steel knife with laminated surface, it would not rust until the laminated surface is removed. I have sharpened my knife, giving it a 10o/15o compound edge. In doing so, the bevel has no lamination and will now easily taint/rust/patina. The knife can take on an edge. The original factory edge is not too bad either.
Unlike the Dexter-Russell Chinese chef's knife, which is also a good knife, this CCK KF1303 is a very thin blade knife. As such it is very light and can slice food with very little resistance. Excellent for most food preparation works. On the other hand, it does not have the same toughness of the thicker blade Dexter knife. I would not recommend using this thin blade knife to cut very hard objects like bones or heavy duty works.
The CCK KF 1303 does not have good finish. I bought two of these. One has a very small crack (1mm) on the handle and the other one has a very small bent at the tip of the spine. Neither has any real impact on performance, but potential buyers should not expect a great finish knife.
6 people found this review helpful
The CCK KF 1303 is a very thin blade Chinese carbon steel chef's knife. Because it is a carbon steel knife with laminated surface, it would not rust until the laminated surface is removed. I have sharpened my knife, giving it a 10o/15o compound edge. In doing so, the bevel has no lamination and will now easily taint/rust/patina. The knife can take on an edge. The original factory edge is not too bad either.
Unlike the Dexter-Russell Chinese chef's knife, which is also a good knife, this CCK KF1303 is a very thin blade knife. As such it is very light and can slice food with very little resistance. Excellent for most food preparation works. On the other hand, it does not have the same toughness of the thicker blade Dexter knife. I would not recommend using this thin blade knife to cut very hard objects like bones or heavy duty works.
The CCK KF 1303 does not have good finish. I bought two of these. One has a very small crack (1mm) on the handle and the other one has a very small bent at the tip of the spine. Neither has any real impact on performance, but potential buyers should not expect a great finish knife.
Product Review, February 3, 2010Posted By: Lawrence - verified customer
7 people found this review helpful
Great for chopping large quantities of veggies. Blade is very thin and glides through food without wedging. Very rustic looking with not good fit and finish and will patina/rust but still a bargain for this level of performance.
7 people found this review helpful
Great for chopping large quantities of veggies. Blade is very thin and glides through food without wedging. Very rustic looking with not good fit and finish and will patina/rust but still a bargain for this level of performance.
Click here to review this product
(Reviews are subject to approval)
(Reviews are subject to approval)
Sign up to receive news, special discounts and more!
Email Us: 
