Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

After reading reviews upon reviews, I was just about to pull the trigger on the 610 model of this meat slicer. However, just as I was about to continue, I saw this 615 model listed on Amazon and handicapped_shopper's excellent review. That said, I would recommend seeing that review. I have some additional thoughts. - When I pulled the slicer out of the box, I was a little intimidated by the size of it. This is certainly not something that will sit on my countertop. It being larger than I anticipated, I had some trouble finding a place to store it when not in use. Using it only once a week on the weekends (when I will try to slice up as much as I think I need for the week), I store it back in the box on top of my refrigerator. Perhaps when we leave our rental apartment, we'll have more space... but that's all together off-topic.... - Eagerly, I read the manual and started slicing. Operationally, it is very easy. I used the supplied serrated blade, while the other was on order. Note: The blade packaging and all advertising for the non-serrated blade states that it is for the 610 model, but it is compatible with the 615. Amazon did not have a storefront with it in stock, so I had to Google it. I did find free shipping. I don't think I'm allowed to list the store here. The nonserrated blade slices adequately the ham that I purchased. However, it left a "tail" as handicapped_shopper describes. This problem is worse with raw meat. - I have trouble keeping the meat on the guide as I move it back and forth. As the piece gets smaller, it gets more difficult as, well. The manual and reviews say that it is best to slice meat "chilled." I found that it is difficult to hold onto the meat as it becomes less and less firm as it warms up. I think next time, I will partially freeze the meat to "a bit more than chilled" to slice it. With a knife, I usually partially freeze to the point where I need to apply some pressure to cut through. I would think that would be too much for this blade. I think just enough to help the meat hold its shape while cutting will make the cutting easier and uniform. - What I just noticed was that the thickness setting can slip as you are cutting. Pay attention to the dial as you slice. If you apply too much pressure, the dial will turn and you'll end up with thicker slices. - Cleaning is not difficult, however I found bits of beef inside the gears beneath the blade. I used a qtip to get these bits out. I was able to disassemble most of the parts that come in direct contact with the unit. I used a disinfectant wipe to clean the parts that might also come in contact with meat or my dirty hands, e.g. the power switch. - Picked up Petro-Gel for around $8 from e bay. I will still need some practice with the slicer and will update this review accordingly.