F. Dick 16-inch Beef Splitter

Where a mechanical saw is not an option, this 16-inch F. Dick splitter separates cattle, pork and lamb carcasses by hand. Small farms and commercial butcher shops use it to split the spine in clean, straight strokes.

At about 6.5 pounds, the splitter relies on mass. The thick spine keeps the blade from twisting or wandering mid-swing, so the split runs straight down the backbone. The steel is tempered for toughness, which helps it absorb the shock of bone impact without chipping. The edge is hand-sharpened at the factory with wide bevels.

Swing in a straight line along the backbone and let the weight finish each stroke. Keep the free hand well clear, and work on a stable rail or table so the carcass does not shift. A clean, straight split gives even sides and saves trimming later.

For hogs and lambs, the lighter 14-inch beef and pork splitter is easier to swing. Store a splitter where its edge cannot be struck by other tools, and hone it with a few passes on a regular cut steel after each session.