what about cleaver shaped blades on folders

plb38801 · **on:** October 01, 2020, 02:14:13 AM

Been seeing a lot of cleaver blades on folders around the internet and was just wondering what others thought of these. I am unsure as of now and think they look a little clunky, but there is something appealing about them too. what are the groups thoughts on there merits.

comis · **Reply #1 on:** October 01, 2020, 02:42:09 AM

I think they are more for the fun factor than the practical use.

If I am carrying a folder with hefty weight, I would rather prefer it longer in length or maybe with a beefier blade, but a taller blade would just occupy more pocket space without offering me much benefit in return. And if I want to use it to hack/chop anything, I would probably trust a real fixed blade cleaver more since any lock will fail. YMMV.

Aloha · **Reply #2 on:** October 01, 2020, 02:44:22 AM

They sure look cool. I use a cleaver in my kitchen a lot. Its thin blade stock makes it a very versatile cutting tool. I also have one thats much thicker which is great for hacking thru bone and such however not as versatile.

When it comes to a pocket knife for me edge geometry is everything. I'm not likely to be hacking with a pocket knife so a thick cleaver shape would not be something I'd gravitate towards. Again they look really cool and the shape is a lot more versatile than most would think. If you could find one thats thinner than some of what I've seen then it'd be worth a try.

I haven't really seen a lot of offerings but it does seem the shape got some traction and more makers are coming out with their versions.

My 2c worth.

nate j · **Reply #3 on:** October 01, 2020, 05:09:50 AM

Cleaver-shaped blades on folders = silly fad IMO

I just don't see any benefit, and believe there are a number of much more practical and useful blade shapes for folders, though I understand the value of a fixed blade cleaver in the kitchen.

Ray S · **Reply #4 on:** October 01, 2020, 06:18:37 PM

A folding knife with a cleaver blade is probably the worst concept I have ever witnessed in a knife;with the possible exception of a Benchmark Rolox(but that is another story altogether).Here is an early example by Colonial which is the most impractical knife to use.
The cleaver blade's pivot pin is small enough that a few good blows with the knife would likely shear it readily. With the cleaver blade closed and the clip blade open there is virtually no way to comfortably grip the handle.

Aloha · **Reply #5 on:** October 01, 2020, 06:27:34 PM

Sure is an interesting knife thats for sure. Thanks for sharing.

cody6268 · **Reply #6 on:** October 02, 2020, 04:14:29 PM

I prefer a sheepsfoot or Wharncliffe blade. Similar profile, far more practical.

I just don't get the shape. If you want a no-point blade, something designed for an EMT or rafter would probably be better. But, it's been used before on folding chef's knives, so it has to be good for something.