Why Does a Meat Cleaver Have a Hole In It?

Have you noticed a small hole near the top edge of a meat cleaver's blade? This peculiar feature might make you think about its purpose. Why does a meat cleaver have a hole in it?

A hole in a meat cleaver carries safety, culinary, and aesthetic appeal. This appeal might become an interesting concern for some. Therefore, Knives Hives further explains why does a meat cleaver have a hole in it.

The Purpose of the Hole in a Meat Cleaver

Safe Hanging and Easy Access

A meat cleaver is a big knife that is difficult to fit in regular kitchen drawers or blocks of knives. By hanging it from a wall hook or rack, save counter space and keep the blade within reach.

Chefs and butchers also benefit from this, as it keeps their workstation neat and guards against knife damage.

In addition, hanging the cleaver improves safety. It might be risky to leave a hefty, sharp blade lying about, particularly in a busy kitchen. It may be swiftly retrieved as required and kept safely.

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Helps When Cutting Through Bones

The purpose of a cleaver is to cut through big pieces of bone and flesh. While cutting, the blade may occasionally become caught. The hole makes grasping and removing the knife simple with minimal effort.

The user may safely and effectively remove the blade by sticking a finger through the hole and strengthening their grasp on the handle.

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Lowers Friction When Cutting

Friction can produce resistance when cutting through bone, making the procedure more challenging. The cleaver's hole facilitates improved aeration, which lowers friction and improves cutting smoothness.

Doing so also ensures a cleaner cut by reducing the possibility of bone splinters flying off.

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Visual Appeal and Brand Recognition

Some knife producers incorporate a hole into the design to improve the cleaver's appearance. This distinguishes the knife from other kitchen instruments by giving it a unique and polished appearance.

Several manufacturers also use the hole as a distinguishing characteristic to set their brands apart from rivals.

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Does Every Meat Cleaver Have a Hole?

Not all meat cleavers have a hole.

Many specialized cleavers are made without holes, especially those meant for lighter culinary tasks or aesthetic reasons.

For practical reasons, such as hanging and improved handling, heavy-duty cleavers made for butchering are likely to include a hole. However, the blade's quality and fit for your purposes are more important than the hole itself when selecting a cleaver.

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The Bottom Line

Comprehending why does a meat cleaver have a hole in it makes sense now!

This hole is for the cleaver’s hanging, safety, cutting effectiveness, and aesthetics. Knowing the function of the hole of a meat cleaver will further help you better use this indispensable kitchen instrument.

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