Explain the magical Boot Cleaver

F

FunkCoaster

Joined
Nov 2, 2010
Messages
172
Lately oodles of boot cleavers have appeared on the interwebs. Friends suggest I should make some.

I might be just missing the train, but I don't quite understand the space they live in.

In the cleaver world, they don't seem hefty or large enough for western or asian cleaver uses.
In the 'boot' world, they seem a bit awkward to carry, and the tip/edge geometry doesn't seem very versatile.

Would anyone be able to champion the cause for boot cleavers?

Put another way - if you were to make one, what characteristics would make a good boot cleaver?
 
DM20hH3h.jpg


I make a lot of "pocket cleavers." I'm not 100% sure as to why they became popular, but I can definitely see why they did. The design is very aesthetically pleasing because there is a lot of blade to work with and put different finishes/bevels on. It's not always the most functional knife, but the low tip makes them really handy for opening boxes and stuff like that. :)
 
One reason they became popular with bikers and certain other groups was because they work well as a razor in a fight, but are legally defendable as a utility knife if asked why you have one in your boot or pocket. A razor in a boot or pocket will very likely get you a ride downtown in the guest seat of a LEO limo.

I know that they are good knives for other things, but that was one reason for popularity. The term "Cleaver" just adds to the hype of how powerful and ferocious it is in use.

The other reason they are popular is they just look new and cool. The classic small EDC is becoming old school.
 
Well, I don't own one, and I'm not a knife maker (sorry to butt in on your forum), but I have to say they amuse me. I don't expect the front edge to be sharpened, more as a scraping/pry bar tool use. So, it has a flat blade for a knife, but stout enough to pry with, all in one package.

But yeah, I'd put them in the novelty camp for the moment.
 
I made one on request, and upon posting pictures got about a half dozen more requests. I think they're neat and made one to keep for myself but really only as an oddity. Maybe I'll chop carrots with mine. Although I hate carrots.
 
I made one for my brother to cut citrus for cocktails. He has a lot of nice kitchen knives but I wanted to give him something he would use, but didn't yet have.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top