Best Bushcraft Cleavers for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Bushcraft is all about surviving and thriving in the wilderness with minimal gear. When it comes to preparing food in the great outdoors, having the right tool can make all the difference. A bushcraft cleaver is a versatile and essential tool that can be used for chopping wood, butchering game, and preparing food.

A good bushcraft cleaver should be durable, sharp, and easy to handle. The blade should be made of high-quality steel that can withstand heavy use and abuse. The handle should be comfortable to grip and provide a secure hold, even in wet or slippery conditions.

When choosing a bushcraft cleaver, it’s important to consider the weight and size of the blade. A heavier blade can make chopping easier, but it can also be more tiring to use. A smaller blade may be more maneuverable, but it may not be as effective for heavier chopping tasks.

We spent hours researching and testing various bushcraft cleavers to identify the best ones on the market. In this article, we’ll share our top picks and provide a detailed analysis of each one. Whether you’re a seasoned bushcrafter or just starting out, having a reliable and effective bushcraft cleaver can make your outdoor adventures more enjoyable and successful.

Best Bushcraft Cleavers

If you’re an outdoors enthusiast, you know the importance of having the right tools when you’re out in the wilderness. A bushcraft cleaver is an essential tool for survivalists, campers, hikers, and hunters. It can be used for chopping wood, preparing food, and even building shelter. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best bushcraft cleavers on the market. We’ve considered factors such as durability, weight, blade sharpness, and handle grip to bring you a comprehensive list of high-quality cleavers that will serve you well on your next outdoor adventure.

HotSteel Damascus Steel Cleaver Knife

If you’re looking for a durable and multipurpose bushcraft cleaver, the HotSteel Damascus Steel Cleaver Knife is worth considering.

Pros

• The Damascus steel blade provides excellent edge retention and a longer service life.
• The full tang rosewood handle is dense and compact, making it easy to grip and minimizing the risk of water damage or splitting.
• The knife comes with a real leather sheath, making it easy to transport and store.

Cons

• The blade is not dishwasher-safe and requires immediate cleaning and drying after use to prevent rust.
• The knife is relatively heavy and may not be suitable for those who prefer a lighter weight.
• The knife is relatively expensive compared to other bushcraft cleavers on the market.

This handmade butcher knife is forged from Damascus Steel, which is a combination of high and low carbon steel (1095 and 15N20). The blade’s unique composition provides excellent hardness and edge retention, making it ideal for chopping, dicing, and slicing meat, vegetables, fruits, bread, and bones. The knife’s multipurpose design makes it suitable for both professional and home use.

The knife’s full tang rosewood handle is durable and ergonomic, providing a comfortable grip that enhances the cutting experience. The handle’s wooden design also enhances the handhold’s touch, making it easy to hold and control the knife’s movements. The knife’s superb balance and weight make cutting more pleasurable and powerful.

The knife comes with a real leather sheath, making it easy to transport and store. The sheath’s design also protects the blade from damage and ensures that the knife remains in excellent condition.

Overall, the HotSteel Damascus Steel Cleaver Knife is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a durable, multipurpose bushcraft cleaver. Its unique design, excellent performance, and comfortable grip make it a reliable choice for both professional and home use.

Mastiff Gears Rhino Horn Handcrafted Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife

If you’re looking for a heavy-duty bushcraft knife that can handle any task, the Mastiff Gears Rhino Horn Handcrafted Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife is a great option.

Pros

• Handcrafted from high-quality materials
• Thick, durable blade for baton splitting and chopping
• Ergonomic handle for a comfortable grip

Cons

• May rust if not properly cared for
• Heavy weight may be difficult for some to handle
• Price may be a bit high for some budgets

This knife is handcrafted by masters with over 40 years of experience, ensuring that each knife is unique and expertly crafted. The blade is made from high carbon steel and is carburized tempered to HRC 58-61, making it incredibly strong and able to handle tough situations in the wild. The blade is ground to a convex grind with a “micro” beveled edge, and the 90 degree back spine works perfectly for ferro rod sparking.

The handle is ergonomically curved and handcrafted from solid Ross wood with brass pins fixing and lanyard holes, providing a comfortable grip even during extended use. The sheath is hand-made from top grain cowhide leather with brass buttons and an end socket, ensuring that your knife stays protected when not in use.

While this knife is a bit heavy, weighing in at 325 grams, it’s perfect for those who need a durable, heavy-duty blade for baton splitting, bone chopping, and meat slicing. However, it may rust if not properly cared for, so rinsing, wiping, and even oiling treatment is highly recommended after use.

Overall, the Mastiff Gears Rhino Horn Handcrafted Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife is a great option for those who need a reliable and durable bushcraft knife. While the price may be a bit high for some budgets, the quality and craftsmanship of this knife make it well worth the investment.

Almazan Cleaver Knife

If you’re looking for a reliable, multi-use cleaver knife, the Almazan Cleaver Knife is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The high carbon steel blade is super sharp and durable, making it perfect for chopping, dicing, and slicing.
• The Micarta handle is comfortable and feels secure in your hand, making it easy to control while you work.
• The knife is lightweight and well-balanced, making it easy to use for extended periods of time.

Cons

• The blade may require frequent sharpening to maintain its sharpness.
• The large size of the blade may make it difficult to use for more delicate tasks.
• The knife does not come with a sheath for safe storage.

The Almazan Cleaver Knife is a powerhouse tool of ruthless chopping efficiency. The high carbon steel blade is incredibly sharp and durable, making quick work of even the toughest ingredients. The Micarta handle is simple but comfortable, providing a secure grip that allows for easy control while you work. The knife is also lightweight and well-balanced, making it easy to use for extended periods of time without causing fatigue.

One potential downside of the Almazan Cleaver Knife is that the blade may require frequent sharpening to maintain its sharpness. Additionally, the large size of the blade may make it difficult to use for more delicate tasks like peeling or trimming. Finally, it’s worth noting that the knife does not come with a sheath for safe storage, so you’ll need to find a suitable storage solution on your own.

Overall, the Almazan Cleaver Knife is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable, multi-use cleaver knife. Its sharp blade, comfortable handle, and lightweight design make it a joy to use in the kitchen or out in the wilderness.

Mueller UltraForged Professional Meat Cleaver Knife

If you’re looking for a versatile and durable cleaver knife for your kitchen or outdoor adventures, the Mueller UltraForged Professional Meat Cleaver Knife is a great option.

Pros

• Ultra-forged precision and exceptionally sharp cutting edge for effortless meat cutting, boning, vegetable chopping, or fruit slicing.
• Hand-forged high-carbon steel blade and handle design for superior strength, durability, and sharpness retention.
• Ergonomic pakkawood handle with brass rivets for a perfect grip and balance, even when chopping the toughest of bones.

Cons

• May be too heavy for some users, leading to hand fatigue when using it for extended periods.
• May require frequent sharpening due to the high-carbon steel blade material.
• May not be suitable for very fine slicing tasks due to the broad blade design.

This meat cleaver knife is a great tool for any chef or outdoor enthusiast who needs a reliable and versatile cutting instrument. Its ultra-forged precision and sharpness make it effortless to cut through meat, vegetables, and fruits, while its hand-forged high-carbon steel blade and handle design ensure superior strength, durability, and sharpness retention. The ergonomic pakkawood handle with brass rivets offers a perfect grip and balance, reducing hand fatigue even when chopping the toughest of bones. However, the knife’s weight may be too heavy for some users, leading to hand fatigue when using it for extended periods. Additionally, the high-carbon steel blade material may require frequent sharpening, and the broad blade design may not be suitable for very fine slicing tasks.

Huusk Serbian Chef Knife Hand Forged Meat Cleaver with Sheath High Carbon Steel Full Tang Knife Heavy Duty Butcher Knife for Kitchen or Camping Outdoor Ideal Gifts

If you are looking for a multi-purpose Serbian knife, the Huusk Serbian Chef Knife is a great option. It is a hybrid of a santoku and a meat cleaver, combined with a wide and sturdy build, featuring a curved spine and a flat, sharp cutting edge. This all-in-one Serbian chef knife can handle most kitchen tasks. It can chop, slice, and mince many ingredients including meat, fish, and vegetables. For those who cook at home, and the professional chef who needs to practice a wide range of techniques, this knife gets you covered.

Pros

• The premium high carbon steel provides the Serbian chef knife better edge retention over time.
• The specifically designed large finger hole on the blade provides excellent control to make precise cuts.
• The Serbian meat cleaver comes with an exquisite gift box and a high-quality matching sheath.

Cons

• The knife blade must be kept away from corrosive substances, such as acidic and alkaline.
• The knife is relatively heavy, which may cause wrist fatigue.
• The knife requires proper maintenance to keep it in good condition.

The Huusk Serbian Chef Knife is forged by hand from ATS-34 carbon steel, making it incredibly strong and robust, allowing the blade to easily chop through tough foods like ribs and chicken bones. With a hardness rating of 56-58 on the Rockwell scale, this knife is well-balanced and provides better edge retention over time. The handle of this cleaver is engineered for comfort, strength, and stability. Its three-riveted full tang construction ensures a secure grip, while the curved shape conforms perfectly to the palm, thereby minimizing wrist fatigue.

The Serbian meat cleaver comes with an exquisite gift box and a high-quality matching sheath, which not only protects the blade but also provides an extra layer of safety for children and elderly individuals by preventing accidental injuries. And the convenient loop makes it ideal for outdoor activities, like camping, trekking, and hunting.

For best use, please keep the knife blade away from corrosive substances, such as acidic and alkaline. After each use, clean the Serbian knife by rinsing it with running water and wiping off any water stains with a cotton cloth. You can also apply cooking oil to the blade for added protection. When not in use, please store the knife in a dry place.

Overall, the Huusk Serbian Chef Knife Hand Forged Meat Cleaver with Sheath High Carbon Steel Full Tang Knife Heavy Duty Butcher Knife for Kitchen or Camping Outdoor Ideal Gifts is a great investment for those looking for a versatile and durable knife that can handle most kitchen tasks.

The Cooking Guild Professional Serbian Cleaver Knife

If you’re looking for a durable and sharp meat cleaver, The Cooking Guild Professional Serbian Cleaver Knife is a great option.

Pros

• The razor-sharp San Mai stainless steel blade makes it easy to cut through meat effortlessly.
• The perfectly balanced weight and balance of the knife offers complete control, making it easy to handle and use.
• The sleek rosewood handle offers a comfortable grip, making it perfect for everyday use.

Cons

• The knife is on the heavier side, which may not be ideal for those who prefer lighter knives.
• It may require some maintenance to keep the blade sharp over time.
• The knife may not be suitable for those who prefer smaller knives.

This meat cleaver is expertly crafted using traditional Japanese techniques, resulting in a hardened effect that offers extra support and protects against corrosion. The result is a rust-resistant cooking knife that will last a lifetime. The blade is reinforced and has enough weight to glide effortlessly through the toughest cuts, making it perfect for disassembling racks of ribs, whole turkeys, and more.

The sleek rosewood handle of the Serbian Cleaver Knife offers a comfortable and firm grip, making it perfect for those who are interested in butchering, BBQ, and outdoor cooking, as well as everyday use in the kitchen. The knife is also suitable for those who are looking for a sturdy, sharp, and affordable knife for their needs.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a durable and sharp meat cleaver, The Cooking Guild Professional Serbian Cleaver Knife is a great option. Its razor-sharp blade, perfect balance, and comfortable grip make it easy to handle and use, while its expert craftsmanship ensures that it will last a lifetime.

XYJ Authentic FULL TANG 6.2 Inch Kitchen Knife Chef Knives With Carrying Leather Knife Sheath High Carbon Steel Slicing Cutting Butcher Knives For Meat Vegetable Cooking Tool 6.2 Inch Brown

If you are looking for a versatile and durable knife that can handle various tasks, the XYJ Authentic FULL TANG 6.2 Inch Kitchen Knife is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The high carbon steel blade is exceptionally sharp and durable, making it easy to slice through meat, vegetables, and other foods.
• The ergonomic Full Tang handle is comfortable to grip and provides a non-slip effect, ensuring that you can use the knife with confidence.
• The V-shaped fine processing blade and hammered finish minimize the chances of food sticking to the blade, making it easier to slice food.

Cons

• The knife may require some maintenance to maintain its sharpness over time.
• The leather sheath may have a strong smell when it is first received.
• The knife may be too large for some users who prefer a smaller blade.

This knife is a great all-rounder that can be used for various tasks, such as camping, fishing, and outdoor cooking. The blade is made of high carbon steel, which ensures that it is sharp and durable. The ergonomic Full Tang handle is designed to be comfortable to grip and provides a non-slip effect, ensuring that you can use the knife with confidence.

The V-shaped fine processing blade and hammered finish make it easier to slice food, and minimize the chances of food sticking to the blade. The knife comes with a leather sheath that can be attached to your belt for easy carrying when you are using it outdoors.

Overall, the XYJ Authentic FULL TANG 6.2 Inch Kitchen Knife is a practical and versatile knife that can be used for various tasks. Its high-quality construction and exceptional sharpness make it a great addition to any kitchen or outdoor adventure.

GRAND SHARP Handmade Forged Butcher Knife

If you’re looking for a versatile and durable bushcraft cleaver, the GRAND SHARP Handmade Forged Butcher Knife is a great option.

Pros

• The ultra-sharp 5Cr15Mov super steel cutting core with 56+ Rockwell hardness provides extraordinary performance, incredible edge retention, and exceptional strength, durability, and stain resistance.
• The handmade forged technology ensures a longer service life compared to kitchen knives made with mechanical ways.
• The exquisite gift box and brown leather make this butcher knife a perfect gift for parents and friends on various occasions.

Cons

• Due to the forged knife’s higher carbon content, it requires careful maintenance, including wiping it dry after cleaning and not letting acidic or alkaline substances stay on the blade for a long period.
• The handle material is alloy steel, which may not be as comfortable to hold as other materials.
• The knife is not dishwasher safe.

This butcher knife is designed for chopping, mincing, slicing, and dicing, making it a versatile tool for bushcraft and kitchen use. The sharp edge ensures maximum cutting performance and durability, allowing you to chop off whatever you desire in your kitchen with the minimum effort. The precisely tapered blade minimizes surface resistance for buttery smooth cut through and enhanced non-stick properties.

The GRAND SHARP Handmade Forged Butcher Knife is sharpened manually by workers with more than 30 years of experience, ensuring its high quality and long service life. The Serbian chef’s knife can be used to cut meat but also to cut vegetables, bones, ribs, tube bones, and more.

Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and versatile bushcraft cleaver, the GRAND SHARP Handmade Forged Butcher Knife is a great choice. Its ultra-sharp cutting core, handmade forged technology, and exquisite gift box make it a quality and thoughtful gift for anyone who loves to cook.

Gerber Gear TRI-Tip Mini Cleaver

If you’re looking for a versatile and stylish utility blade, the Gerber Gear TRI-Tip Mini Cleaver is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The black oxide coating on the cleaver blade is both eye-catching and functional, as it allows for both scraping and cutting.
• The machined aluminum handle scales provide an excellent grip, making it comfortable and easy to use.
• The multi-mount sheath can be carried in two positions: tip down or horizontal SCOUT carry, making it convenient for outdoor activities.

Cons

• The knife can be difficult to remove from the sheath, requiring two hands and some practice to get the hang of it.
• The handle may be a bit short for people with larger hands, making it uncomfortable to use for extended periods of time.
• Some users have reported that the blade is not as sharp as they would like it to be, requiring some sharpening out of the box.

Overall, the Gerber Gear TRI-Tip Mini Cleaver is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and stylish utility blade. It’s perfect for outdoor activities like camping and hiking, as well as for use in the backyard kitchen or at a tailgate. With its unique design and high-quality construction, it’s definitely worth considering for anyone in the market for a new utility blade.

XYJ Full Tang Boning Knife Handmade Forged Butcher Knife Serbian Chef Knife Multi-functional Cleaver With Leather Sheath For Kitchen Camping or BBQ

If you’re looking for an all-purpose cleaver that can handle your daily kitchen tasks of slicing, dicing, and mincing by cutting vegetables and meat, then the XYJ Full Tang Boning Knife Handmade Forged Butcher Knife Serbian Chef Knife Multi-functional Cleaver is a great option.

Pros

• The handmade forged technology ensures the service life of the knife is longer than those made with mechanical ways.
• The full tang wooden handle is ergonomic and comfortable to grip, preventing slippage during use.
• The knife is multi-purpose and designed for professional applications, suitable for cutting, dicing, slicing with vegetables, fruit, bread, and meat.

Cons

• The leather sheath may have a smell upon arrival, but it will dissipate with time.
• The sheath may be a little tight, making it difficult to remove the knife at first.
• The knife may take some time to get used to if you are not used to using a cleaver.

The XYJ Full Tang Boning Knife Handmade Forged Butcher Knife Serbian Chef Knife Multi-functional Cleaver is a great beauty with impeccable performance. This strong design with good strength and durability is perfect for use in the kitchen, outdoor barbecues, hunting, or hiking experiences. The portable leather sheath that comes with the knife is perfect for protecting the blade during transportation and can be attached to your belt for easy carrying.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a versatile and durable cleaver that can handle all your kitchen tasks, then the XYJ Full Tang Boning Knife Handmade Forged Butcher Knife Serbian Chef Knife Multi-functional Cleaver is a great choice.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best bushcraft cleaver, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when choosing a bushcraft cleaver:

Blade Material

The blade material is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a bushcraft cleaver. The most common materials used for bushcraft cleavers are high carbon steel, stainless steel, and Damascus steel. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.

Blade Thickness

The thickness of the blade is another important factor to consider. A thicker blade is generally more durable and can handle heavy-duty tasks, but it can also be heavier and less agile. A thinner blade, on the other hand, is lighter and more agile, but may not be as durable.

Blade Length

The length of the blade also plays a role in its performance. A longer blade can chop through thicker materials, but may be less maneuverable. A shorter blade, on the other hand, is more agile and easier to control, but may not be as effective for heavy-duty tasks.

Handle Material

The handle material is also an important factor to consider. The most common materials used for bushcraft cleaver handles are wood, synthetic materials, and bone. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the one that feels comfortable and secure in your hand.

Weight

The weight of the bushcraft cleaver is another factor to consider. A heavier cleaver can provide more chopping power, but may be more difficult to handle and maneuver. A lighter cleaver, on the other hand, is more agile and easier to control, but may not be as effective for heavy-duty tasks.

In summary, when choosing a bushcraft cleaver, consider the blade material, blade thickness, blade length, handle material, and weight. By taking these factors into account, you can choose the best bushcraft cleaver for your needs.