This cleaver is forged and has a full tang that runs through the handle. It is very strong and durable. With this knife you can confidently breakdown a chicken, cut up smaller pork, lamb and goat bones and even some thin cooked beef bones. Although this is not a butchery knife, it will meet most home chef's needs. Terrific forged high quality stainless steel. Will hold an edge even through daily use, and take an edge after years of resharpening. 

Dishwasher safe, but I always hand wash my knives. I like them to look new and dishwasher detergents are very hard on knives.