Cleaver 200mm/100mm AU Mono Yew & Antler Takedown

Austrian blacksmith Simon Kirchbaum recently forged an exquisite Chinese cleaver as part of a competition with fellow smith Benjamin Kamon. The challenge was to craft the lightest cleaver that still met a set of stringent minimum specifications. The cleavers had to measuring at lease 200mm by 100mm, be forged from Apex Ultra steel, am excellent steel known for its edge retention and toughness, no special grinds were allowed, and the cleavers must feature a takedown handle.

The specifications of Kirchbaum's cleaver highlight his exceptional skill as craftsman. The blade is a traditional Chinese style or vegetable cleaver with an edge length of 200mm. The spine measurements are meticulously tapered, with the heel at 4.45mm, the mid at 1.17mm, and the tip (20mm before) at 0.83mm. The blade height stands at 101.26mm. Despite its robust build, the cleaver weighs a mere 310g, making it remarkably lightweight for its size. The cutting edge, forged from Apex Ultra steel, boasts a hardness rating of 66 HRC, ensuring a razor-sharp edge that can handle rigorous use.

Kirchbaum's attention to detail extends to the cleaver's aesthetic and functional design. The blade features a striking Brute de Forge finish combined with satin polished bevels, enhancing its visual appeal. The convex grind ensures superior cutting performance. The handle construction is equally impressive, utilizing a hidden tang, takedown design for easy maintenance and balance. Crafted from yew and deer antler, the handle not only offers a comfortable grip but also adds a touch of natural beauty. Simon made a custom tool to remove the handle, it’s an elegant design.

A signature aesthetic for Simon, this cleaver exemplifies the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.