Review: Waring Pro PVS1000 Pistol Vac Professional Vacuum Sealer System

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This Warning Pro brand food vacuum sealer is a professional version that uses a pistol style to operate, easily sealing food bags for use later.  It is smaller and easier to use than conventional countertop versions and comes at a fraction of the price as well.  It includes 12 one-gallon bags and 12 one-quart bags.  The heavy-duty NiMH battery is rechargeable which saves money on the purchasing of batteries.  There is a charging stand for the battery charger for easy storage.

This device can seal more than 30 bags with one single full charge of the battery.  The unit allows you to refrigerate, boil, microwave and freeze in the BPA free bags.  There is a five year limited warranty on the motor.  The unit is very portable so it can be taken along on hunting and fishing trips or wherever you may roam.

In the reviews, it was stated that the machine is well built and that the bags are heavy duty as is stated in the product description.  One review said that the plastic device that comes with the unit to be used for sealing the bags is generally not even needed and that the bags are said to be dishwasher safe but that it is probably best, in her opinion, to just wash them in soapy water.  It was seen as a positive that the bags are able to go into the dishwasher, though, should one desire to do so.

Another reviewer said that she uses the unit to seal mason jars and went on to tell how the procedure can be done successfully.  Others went on to tell of their creative endeavors using this product for their individual needs.

Some reviewed that they had used the unit for a period of time and that it was still holding up.  One said that when pulling air out of the unit, liquid came out as well which was a negative factor.  It was mentioned by the same reviewer that the device was a little difficult to clean but that pre-soaking should be helpful.

The device is said to be easy to use and quite convenient with its small size and portability.  It was recommended to use the little tool that comes with the unit to seal the bags so you do not injure your fingers and to be sure to press firmly to get a complete seal between the bags and the gun.  It was praised that the sealer takes up little counter space and is easy to store as well.

It was also mentioned that cheaper bags could be used instead of the more expensive ones that are available.  It was also mentioned that some actually sealed a dish with food inside of it successfully.

At least one review stated that the pistol did not work very well and sometimes not at all.  It was not concluded if the device was defective or not.  All in all though, most seemed happy with their pistol and said that although they were initially leery of the purchase, it was working better than they had anticipated and they were happy they had made the buy.  The price of this unit was a positive mentioned by many.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the Waring Pro PVS1000 Pistol Vac Professional Vacuum Sealer System.

Review: FoodSaver V3240 Vacuum Sealing System

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This FoodSaver V3240 Vacuum Sealing System uses a patented system to freshly seal food with a moist/dry sealing system that allows you to choose the setting for optimal sealing.  It features a CrushFree Instant Seal and has a convenient roll holder and bag cutter as well.  The starter kit includes one 11″x10′ roll, three quart size heat-seal bags and two gallon heat-seal bags.

This Food Saver device keeps food fresh for up to five times longer than regular storage methods and also prevents freezer burn.  The system does this by removing moisture and air from bags that are specially designed and have multi layers that lock in freshness.  It works well to freeze cuts of meats or even leftovers.  A manual and instruction book accompany the purchase.

The reviews on this product were pretty positive.  Some stated that they wish they had bought it sooner than they did they were so pleased with it.  Many said they use it frequently and feel they have saved money in doing so.  A good number of those who reviewed have developed a system to save leftovers and to enjoy them at a later date. Such as one who said they use it to freeze meat that has been cooked on the grill, which they are now able to enjoy in the middle of the winter months.

It was recommended by at least one reviewer to not bother with the premade bags and to make your own from the roll that is available.  Some stated that the food vacuum sealer works flawlessly.  The moist/dry setting was a plus for several reviews.  It was also praised that the unit has a convenient built-in cutter and stores a bag roll.   The fact that the cord has a spot to be stored underneath the unit was a big bonus too.

It was stated that this model is superior to the older model.  The old model was said to require the pushing of a button that had to be continuously depressed when sealing.  This model does not require that.

One review stated that the food sealer did not withstand the test of time and that she had moved and when she unpacked the unit, it was no longer working.  The issue was diagnosed to be an issue with the automatic clamping not putting enough pressure on.  The reviewer solved the problem by manually applying pressure but was not happy about having to do so.

The multiple intuitive settings were mentioned as a plus and the fact that it services a wide range of sizes as well as wet and dry items.  It was said that it does not make a loud noise but rather, a slight hum when it is sealing.

Some have come up with creative ways to cut their own bags and mentioned watching instructional videos in order to gain helpful hints in using the unit and cutting the bags as well.

Overall, the reviews were good though and the machine was said to be reliable and that it was built well and performed better than most expected it to.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the FoodSaver V3240 Vacuum Sealing System.

 

Review: West Bend 77203 Electric Can Opener

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This West Bend brand electric can opener is in the mid-price range.  It is 70 watts and is an attractive small appliance of plastic, chrome and aluminum and is of a sleek and slim design.  The device is extra tall to accommodate larger and taller cans. It measures 5-1/6 by 5 by 9-8/9 inches and comes with a 1-year limited warranty.   It is a well-made, heavy-duty designed can opener and has several added features such as doubling for a knife sharpener and a bottle opener too.

This modern can opener is has a safety measure built-in so that it shuts down after it completes the opening of a can.  Another great feature of this device is that it has a cutting apparatus is removable and dishwasher safe as well.  There is a storage spot built in the back of the can opener.

The many features of this model make it a favorite for many.  The sleek and the contemporary attractiveness have gotten much praise along with the fact that it is easy to operate.  There is no need to press down on the handle and that was noted as a big plus.  It seems to be regarded as well made and dependable.  There were some who mentioned having their device for a number of years and some still had not experienced any trouble whatsoever.

Though there were some mentions of small problems like the paper of the can peeling off or bunching up as the can was cut, there were no huge problems.  Some mentioned peeling the top of the label off themselves to avoid the bunching.  There was a review that noted that after five years, the magnetic device that holds the can top on broke.

It was stated that the machine has more plastic parts that it did in earlier models.  But, it was also noted that the device functioned well even though the parts were plastic.

The retractable cord and spot for it to fit in is noted as being “thoughtful”.  Also, there is a plastic cover that can be placed over it so that it doesn’t come out or get dusty when stored.  It was also praised that the front of the device also has a magnet that grips the can opener itself when it is folded down and not in use so it doesn’t stick out as most others do, making it more compact and easy to work around.

There was praise for the fact that the device requires practically no assembly nor does it really call for directions but instructions are included.  The way in which this machine holds even large cans was noted as a plus and that the magnet holds heavy cans well.  The height attracted many buyers, as shorter can openers cannot open tall cans or if they can be manipulated to do so, are unsafe and inconvenient in the process.

The reviews for this can opener were generally very positive.  The many features, nice looks, and affordable price tag were most appealing.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the West Bend 77203 Electric Can Opener.

Review: Bartelli Soft Edge Automatic Electric Can Opener

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This Bartelli brand electric can opener has a unique appearance that many find very attractive.  It is sleek in design and opens cans with a touch of a button and very convenient not only to use but to store as well.  It cuts the sides of the can so it renders a smooth, safe edge which is fantastic for families with children who might get cut on jagged edges and also allows for a reusable lid.

This device is red and white in color and operates easily so it is excellent for those which weak grips or handicapped individuals.  The can is simply mounted to the can opener and when the button is pressed, the unit swivels around to cut open the can.  The button is then pressed again so that a release is made.  4 AA batteries are required for use but are not included.  This can opener is great for those who wish to have an electric can opener that is about the size of a manual one and doesn’t cost much either.

Many were quite happy with this device.  The majority noted the ease of operation, although some did say that it was difficult to push down.  While at least one customer received a faulty first one, the matter was taken care of and the second worked without any problems at all.

While many did find it easy to use, some stated they had trouble figuring out the right way to do it.  It was also mentioned that it didn’t work correctly every time, some stating about 50-50 for the count.  Some also stated that proper operation of the can opener hinges on the guide and the blade lining up with the edge of the can in between them.  Some simply wanted to stick a can in and for it to be opened and others found the set up to be worth the price and the advantage of having a small apparatus.  Some also said that it could be an error on their part as to not operating it properly.

Some reported that they ran across this can opener when looking for the “perfect” model.  There were several who had been through various other models that were all sorts such as electric, portables, lift ones and touch types as well.  Most were pleased with this model and thought it to be close to that perfect one they were in search of but it was said that it tends to attack the outer edge of the can instead of going for the inner side of the can but on the good side it was noted that at least the edges were not sharp and jagged and that seemed to make most any other issue bearable.

The general reviews of this device were positive though there were some negative ones in the mix.  If you don’t mind the possibility that this device may not do the job the first try every time but are willing to sacrifice steady performance for the convenience of this small model and the safety of the smooth edges, you might give this can opener a try.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the Bartelli Soft Edge Automatic Electric Can Opener.

Review: SodaStream Fountain Jet Home Soda Maker Starter Kit

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This SodaStream Fountain Jet Home Soda Maker Starter Kit is a quick and convenient way to make carbonated soft drinks in your own home.  It’s great for parties and to keep the children entertained on family nights as well.  This device requires no electricity and does not use batteries.  It operates on carbon dioxide in the form of a can.  This particular unit takes a mid-sized 60-liter can and comes with a rebate that is good at over at over 15,000 locations.  It comes with a small complimentary canister of CO2 to get you started.

The starter kit includes a sample of 6 flavorings.  Additional flavorings can be purchased including a better-for-you more nutritional alternative, diet and regular.  There are, to date, over 60 flavorings available.  None of the SodaStream brand flavorings contains high fructose, corn syrup or aspartame.

This device is 17 inches x 10 inches x 5.5 inches and weighs eight pounds.  It comes in an attractive silver and black design.  It puts out about 33 cans of soda per 60-liter can of CO2, which is roughly 12 liters.

There is a handy carbonation controller on this soda maker that is a helpful feature for those who like more or less than the average amount of carbonation.  Another plus is that it has a fizz-preserving bottle.

For the price, this soda maker is a steal.  It sells for what many of the much smaller units go for and has a larger CO2 than most in its price range.  It doesn’t come without a few complaints but most reconcile that given the price tag, it is well worth the money.

One typical complaint was that the soda maker or any soda maker for that matter does not actually save money because of the price of the CO2 refill or replacement.  Many, however, conceded that the nostalgic touch of the device was more what they were going for anyway.  Others resolved to the fact that the ability to make their own custom drink or seltzer was worth figuring in the cost of the CO2.

Something that seemed to be shared by many of those who reviewed was the fact that the device saves the use of cans and bottles, which must be thrown away or recycled.  They felt good about saving time and money eliminating them and saving the earth as well.

A number of those who wrote reviews spoke of how far the 60-liter CO2 cans went.  They seemed to be pleasantly surprised.  Some did inquire as to a way to tell how low the cans were getting, but it was stated that there was no real way to know and that it was a good idea to keep a spare handy.

Again, for the low price of this soda maker, many were able to overlook things such as the fact that it is not stainless steel and the device is not extremely durable as some reported that assembly is quick and easy but should be done with care so as not to push too hard on the device.  All in all, this soda maker is a great quality item with a low price tag.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the SodaStream Fountain Jet Home Soda Maker Starter Kit.

Review: Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared Oil-less Turkey Fryer

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This turkey fryer by Char-Broil features a patented technology through infrared cooking that runs on propane gas.  This Big Easy model uses infrared rather than heat so turkeys come out crispy and juicy without uneven cold and hot spots and also cooks without oil so the possibility of splattering is eliminated plus it is much cheaper.

A cooking basket and lifter, a meat thermometer and cooking guide are all included.  This device weighs 30 pounds and measures 24.5″H with a 21.1″ diameter.    The handles are cool-touch and the cooking chamber is made of stainless steel so it will not rust and is easy to clean.

The concept of infrared cooking is that no heat is used so meat won’t dry out but renders tender and juicy.  It is more economical and is safer too since there is no grease used in the cooking process, the possibility of it splattering out is eliminated.  It is much healthier too.  The infrared cooking method is patented by Char-Broil and is a favorite of many.

The reviews for this device were pretty positive. On the good side, it was mentioned that this device, being infrared, cooks quicker than many traditional fryers do.  A good number of those who reviewed said that they used this fryer for meats other than just turkey such as chicken and ham.

It was also stated that the unit is easy to clean and simple to put together. The fact that no grease is used was a huge plus in the cleaning aspect as well as economically and in the health department too.  It was noted that the fryer looks attractive and holds up well.  Most who commented said they felt that this infrared fryer actually cooked better that other models and were quite pleased with the results.  Some noted that it exceeded their expectations of what an infrared unit was capable of producing.

One issue, on the downside, that was mentioned was the fact that if you do not assemble the device correctly like not putting the propane valve in correctly, gas can flow out.  It was also stated that the problem would be caused by human error though.  It was mentioned that the directions should be followed carefully in order to avoid such an incident.  .  It was also stated that the basket that comes with the unit does not provide an “easy out” but one can be purchased which the reviewer did not think was a positive reflection.  Some mentioned the basket was easy to clean, however.

Several who reviewed stated that they missed the crispy skin of a fried bird so they had rubbed oil on the outside of the turkey and this product did cook it to a crunchy state which was noted as a positive.   It was suggested that by one review that consumers purchase their own thermometer and timer because they had experienced and issue and simply purchased an additional one of each.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the Char-Broil The Big Easy TRU-Infrared Oil-less Turkey Fryer.

Review: Hamilton Beach 76606Z Smooth Touch Can Opener

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This electric can opener is made by Hamilton Beach.  It is easy to operate and works on cans of all sizes including the type with pop-tops, which is a huge plus.  The device cuts edges smoothly.  The cutting edge goes into the side in order to produce a safe, smooth opening which is great for families with young children.  The can opener also removes the top of the can once it has been opened.  There is an opening in the back, which the cord can be placed into.

This model is sleek looking.  It comes in black and chrome and has a large ergonomic lever that allows for smooth operation without much effort at all.  The device is 5”x4”x9” and is nicely designed in black and chrome.  In addition, it comes with a full 1-year warranty.

The majority of the reviews for this small appliance are positive.  The attractive design was noted as a plus and the ease of operation was praised as well.  Many of the reviewers loved the smooth cut option as opposed to the rough cutting ones.  Another plus was that the top of the can comes right off.  There were a number of comments claiming this can opener to be the best on the market.  Yet another thing mentioned was that no part of the can opener ever touches the food, unlike some other models and that was a big plus to many.  If any part of a can opener touches the food it can contaminate it.  The fact that it opens even pull cans got positive marks too.

Some mentioned that they do not like to use pull tops because they can have extremely sharp edges when they open.  Some also have difficulty pulling them so the unit was a great help to them.  One did mention he got one for a handicapped person and the top of the can was hard for him to remove, but that may be the strength of the magnet that holds the top of the lid once cut open.  That can be a negative for one with a handicap but a positive for one who wants to make sure the lid stays put until it can be taken off.

There was mention of the machine not shutting off properly once it has actually opened the can.  There was also mention of thin strands of metal peeling off of the can and also tiny pieces of metal but it was also explained that when an edge reaches the end of its lifespan, it may do such.  The unit does come with a warranty so if this happens within the first year, it is insured.

Another negative that was mentioned was the fact that it is difficult to tell when the lid has been completely cut all the way around.  This, however, is typical of side-opened cans.

Most of the reviews were positive especially for durability, safety, quality, looks and ease of use.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the Hamilton Beach 76606Z Smooth Touch Can Opener.

Review: FoodSaver V2244 Vacuum Sealing System

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This FoodSaver brand food vacuum sealer is a compact size.  It is manually operated and has a CrushFree instant seal that helps to protect more delicate food during the sealing process. It is patented and removable as well.  It’s dishwasher-safe for easy clean up and has a drip tray too.  The accessory port and hose vacuum seals canisters tightly and securely and marinates food in minutes.

This FoodSaver product carries a 1-year warranty.  The design is sleek and attractive and compact as well.  It is very easy to use for the storage of fresh or frozen foods.  It is a reliable and handy way to preserve foods.  The bags can be safely stored in the freezer for a good amount of time without worry of them becoming freezer-burnt.

This unit is great for freezing leftovers.  It comes with 5 pre-cut heat-seal bags and 1 heat-seals roll.  To use, simply place the prepared and filled bag into the vacuum-sealing channel, and close the latch to the easy-lock. Then select either Seal or Vacuum Seal from the push-button control panel and the device will do the rest for you.  It will vacuum and then it will seal and then it will safely shut off automatically.  The product is an airtightheat-sealed item that will remain freshly frozen.

What’s more, the food vacuum sealer comes equipped with an accessory hose port.  What this does it to take out all of the air from the FoodSaver containers and seals them airtight for freshness.  The attachable accessory hose comes with the purchase although the FoodSaver containers do not.

The reviews were favorable, for the most part.  Some wrote and told of the money they had saved by preserving their food.  One said that in just two months of use, the item has paid for itself.

The price was said to be fair and not too high at all for the product.  The extra bags were somewhat of an issue with one review saying they were not really necessary, as most things that would be bagged will fit in the standard sized ones.  Many liked the way in which the bags can be organized in the freezer and how easy they are to prepare.  It was mentioned that the bags are expensive but can be reused.

There was at least one mention of the unit not working.  No details were given except for that the device was returned within 30 days.

The durability and performance of the sealer was said to be better than expected by most who wrote in.  Some were leery of even purchasing the device but are now glad that they did.  One even said that if the food saver does not last long (or the vacuum pump, that is, that the purchase would still be well worth it.

It was advised that the instructions be read and to pre-freeze for an hour before sealing as that prevents the vacuum from sucking out juices and is important when packing liquids and sauces too.  It also makes less or no mess cleaning the tray.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the FoodSaver V2244 Vacuum Sealing System.

Review: OXO SteeL Can Opener

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If you are looking for a simple yet effective can opener, this manual type can opener is one of the easier to operate. This device by OXO comes with oversized, cushioned handles that allow for a tighter grip and absorbs pressure too.  The handles are non-slip as well, which is a great safety feature.   This mechanism has an oversized knob that makes for easy turning, has a sharp cutting wheel made of stainless steel teeth to prevent rusting.  This can opener doubles as a bottle opener too.  It is a contemporary design of silver and black.  It is recommended that it be washed by hand and is not dishwasher safe.

There were a host of good reviews available for this device.  For the inexpensive price, many felt it was well made and offered a sturdy option to some cheaper models that were flimsy and fell apart.  The fact that it is small and can just be placed into a drawer made it appealing to many who do not want a can opener that takes up space.

There was mention of the fact that the blade did not rust, but spaces around the blade did.  There was also the mention of durability by one consumer who had used his device for five years and the blade had remained sharp until recently.  Another said he had owned the model for three years and it was still working perfectly.  The handles were praised and were overall, given good marks for being easy to operate, even for those with issues with low hand strength.

A few mentioned rusting on the blade.  Rust on a blade can be a huge safety concern as it can contaminate the food inside of the can.  Still, it was not stated if the can openers had ever been through the dishwasher or if perhaps it was the areas around the blade that were rusting as mentioned in at least one other review and perhaps the rust was spreading.  The wheel is made of stainless steel and should not rust but if it did, in fact, that is of concern.

There were a number of reviews that mentioned that this model was the same or much like one they had used in the past and had been looking for.  They stated that they were glad to find it.  Some had been searching for one for a while and were pleased to find that it not only looked the same but operated in the same ease and efficiency as the one they were replacing.

Another plus that was mentioned was the fact that this device does not shred paper, which will end up falling into the can of food.  It was also noted that it cuts a sharp path, which is imperative for a can opener to do, or the purpose is defeated.

The reviews were overall positive.  This device is very inexpensive ant that was praised in the reviews and it taken into consideration when weighing the negative things mentioned.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the OXO SteeL Can Opener.

Review: Cuisinart CPC-600AMZ 1000-Watt 6-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker

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This pressure cooker is a Cuisinart brand and operates at 1000 watts.  It is a 6-quart version.  It is constructed of brushed stainless steel and has a matte black top and bottom.  The push button display is simple to use and convenient to see.  It has a digital display and a thermostat for precise cooking.

The cooker not only cooks with pressure, it simmers, browns, sautés and warms.  There are settings for each of the cooking features.  It has a high and low option.   There is also a 99- minute countdown timer with LED display and the handle is a cool-touch so there is no risk of getting burned from it.  The cooker pot is dishwasher safe and is of the non-stick variety.  A dishwasher-safe trivet comes with the device.  The dimensions are as follows: 12-1/5 by 12-1/5 by 13-1/5 inches.

The manufacturer has designed an improved packaging system in compliance with Amazon to be certain that it will arrive in the same great condition it left the factory in.

One plus for this device is that it is highly energy efficient.  It cooks quickly and, therefore, uses about 70% less power than it would take a normal meal to cook otherwise.  It is also a nutritionally conducive item as the food cooked inside of it retains more vitamins and minerals since it is cooked hastily.

Another bonus is that when the preset feature is used, it allows liquids to be cooked at a lower temperature.  It also warms foods and has a setting where they will stay warm for up to 12 hours.  This setting can be programmed for automatic.  For browning, the unit can be used with the lid off before it is set to pressure cook so that meat and vegetables can get the sealed-in flavor of braising or browning and the appealing visual effect too.

A good number of those that reviewed had favorable things to say about cooking rice in the unit.  The warming feature and slow cooking feature were of good reports as well.

While there are some reports of defective parts or functions, the situations were handled.  Overall, this product had extremely high ratings and then a few low ones due to problems with the product having issue upon receipt of it.  Again, most did mention that the problem was rectified.  Several reviews noted defections stated that they did receive a replacement and were satisfied with the solution.  There were accounts from some who had been using their cooker for months or longer and were having no problems at all and loved their new addition to the kitchen.

This product has safety precautions such as the fact that the cooker must be locked in order for it to work.  It will not unlock until the inside pressure has gone back to zero.  It is praised for its easy use, simple instructions and convenient features.  This pressure cooker is in mid-range in price, selling for around $100.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the Cuisinart CPC-600AMZ 1000-Watt 6-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker.
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