I've wanted a slicer for a long time. After using the $50 "consumer grade" toys at a previous job, I'm fairly convinced used commercial is the only answer. But even used, they're $$$.
Anybody have one that doesn't suck?
The cheap one I used in the past struggled cutting 1/4" thick slices of pound cake. I'm looking for something that could cut 1/4" thick slices of pork even if I have to chill them a little first.
What's your budget? I'm asking because there are commercial ones here on FB for $275-$350. That seems reasonable when others on FB are $3500....
In reply to Steve_Jones :
I'm thinking I could throw $200-300 at it when the time comes. I've seen them at equipment auctions for less, but those are usually due for rebuilds, bringing them back up in price. I had to pass on a free ancient Hobart because I couldn't find parts for it last summer.
I'm more looking for brand or model suggestions. My fun fund is negative $9000 at the moment, so I'm not buying anything but bills and food for a while.
I'd say stick with Hobart or Globe. They're the workhorses. Older Globes are usually a little cheaper because people recognize Hobart. They're actually better built, so it's a win win
Hobart, Globe, Berkel in that order of quality. There are other names out there but they will all be parts problems.
Hobart Model 1612 is the gold standard of simplicity and reliability. Don't be afraid to buy one older than you are. Any Hobart model number larger than 1612 is good too (1712, 2612, etc)
Go buy this $300 Horbart 1612 about an hour West of Parkersburg, WV. If it needs servicing, take it here in Downtown Cleveland, leave it for a few days or a week and they will make it like new for $350
OMG: Of the one I listed above, I watched the video but with the volume on. This one sounds like crap. My guess is the blade cover hasn't been put on properly. Ask the seller to take off that cover and run it that way. Or, the blade has not been mounted correctly and it is wobbling. I do not see the wobble but it sounds like metal to metal contact.
On these Hobarts the blade is "keyed" meaning there is a little nub that has to be lined up correctly when placing the blade. But since the nub is on the back side of the blade it is very easy to not get it lined up correctly.
A Globe in Wooster, Ohio
Hobart 1712 not far from you asking $175. Needs an indexer. You'll find many youtube videos on how to repair, replace.
We have had a consumer grade one for a decade, use it to slice various meats. Cuts pretty well, thick or thin. The only complaint is cleaning up afterwards. Too many crevices and electric motors don't like dishwashers so it has to be done by hand.
ddavidv
UltimaDork
8/4/23 7:38 a.m.
Just came in to make sure someone posted the Kramer episode. Left satisfied.
Be careful with those. When I worked at the Harry Tweeter (Harris Teeter) in high school, at least once a quarter, some sweet old lady working in the deli would slice off her fingerprints using the slicer.