Benriners are fine for one thing---slicing. But if you want to cut a pile of pomme frites or waffle cut fries you really do need those extra blades and cutters. For small jobs, say slicing radishes, I use a little Kyocera hand slicer with a ceramic blade which stays sharp. It has four adjustable settings. But for big jobs Robespierre comes out. On the Matfer the reversible blade is easy to replace if it becomes dull.
Echoing Sam 1148: I also use a Benriner. The expensive options allow for a lot more control over a bigger range. Super instruments, but for most of us, the simpler option is both good enough and much more likely to get used. And yes, exercise caution, whether you go affordable or atmospherically priced..
Got mine in Chinatown, NYC. It's a Benriner and cost $26. Has funny translation instructions.I love the way it cuts fennel, just perfect for salads. I use it quite a lot, and for some reason have never cut myself with it. But give me a good ole knife, and then I get careless.
I have to get a mandoline, I love the uniformity when slicing. I am such a klutz I have always been afraid of losing a finger or something but with the hand guard and special gloves it sounds safe. Good suggestions here.
Actually, I just threw mine away. It was really a piece of junk--I don't remember where I got it--I think from one of those home shopping thngs--it was about 10 years old and the blade had gotten so dull that i took my life in my hands every time I used it. So far I haven't replaced it, but I probably will soon.
I second this answer! I had a mid-range mandolin with lots of blades and such I inherited.
It's retired to the junk cabinet. The Benriger is cheap and more of a 'go to' usable item that can fit in the dishwasher and does everything I want it do with far fewer parts and hassle. Not a lot of bells and 'bling' for those, but it gets used a lot.
I think mandolins always require a blood sacrifice---just show you who's boss.
My mandoline aka Robspierre is a Matfer but Brun makes good ones too. Per aagersi's comment everyone who has ever owned one has cut themself, so be prepared for that. So far I haven't cut off my own head. It's a ruthlessly efficient tool so treat it with respect.
I love my OXO - easy to use, easy to clean. USE the safety guard! And I wear a kevlar glove too - after I sliced off a chunk of finger, I don't want to risk that happening again
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It's retired to the junk cabinet. The Benriger is cheap and more of a 'go to' usable item that can fit in the dishwasher and does everything I want it do with far fewer parts and hassle. Not a lot of bells and 'bling' for those, but it gets used a lot.
I think mandolins always require a blood sacrifice---just show you who's boss.
http://www.food52.com/foodpickle/6201-is-it-worthwhile-to-get-a-mandoline