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Hi all, further to previous posts on slicers & the failings of domestic machines to cut bacon, I myself was struggling with my own, in that I had to trim bacon to fit the machine. I had tried rolling & tying the slab, but the machine really didn't like that at all ! Anyway, I happened to mention this to my local supermarket owner, who is also a friend & as luck would have it, they had an old redundant machine, that they very generously just gave to me ! The machine is an Italian made Essedue - manufactured 1992 according to the plate, it has a 12 inch blade & rated at 0.4 HP. Have checked it out & machine is in very good condition, however the blade is wickedly sharp & my question is... I believe a special tool is normally used during the removal & replacing of the blade for cleaning ? I really don't fancy swishing the thing around in soapy water with my hands, so anyone know if & where this type of tool can be obtained. I have tried internet search but so far drawn a blank.

I have had and worked with a number of slicers over the years, and we always just deal with it. It's sharp as dickens, everybody knows it, so just be careful. If you're really that worried, get a pair of cotton gloves to wear while cleaning it. It's sharp, but it's not going to chew a person up if they're careful. No reason to spend money on some fancy tool when just being aware of the sharp will do just fine.

Perhaps you could email the manufacturer:

http://www.essedue.com/eng/index.php

HTH

Phil