The Chinese version of the cutting board, these chopping blocks are better than their Western counterpart, for not only are they anti-bacterial (as studies have proven), but the soft wood also does not dull knife blades like harder woods and plastics. Made of pine wood from the California gold country (Auburn/Placerville area). Approx.3" thick. Storage Hint: store chopping blocks upright (not on flat sides) so they do not retain moisture.

Reader Reviews
16" diameter, 5" thick, this thing is HUGE and heavy (shipping box said 55lbs) and exactly what i was looking for. a couple of issues though:

1) it's very rough cut. straight up blade marks on it, zero finish, and grease pen markings on the side denoting the size (that i have yet to get off). it should be noted that i was expecting (and hoping) for the rough/rustic look/finish though.

2) mine was so fresh that there was still sap/sugar seeping from it and crystallizing for the first 2-3days, your mileage may vary.

3) i've rubbed better than a quart of mineral oil into it over the last 2 weeks (daily) and it's developing some major cracks on both top and bottom. they started at the center, but are now developing near the sides and some are 5"+ long.


i still have high hopes for this block and will continue pouring mineral oil into it nightly for the next 2-3 weeks. it may still get relegated to grill-work only though if the cracks get any worse and soaking it in water overnight doesn't fix the problem.

Available from Amazon Price: $39.95 Updated on 12-23-2008.