T-Fal 62870 Magiclean Deep Fryer
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $89.99
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Editorial Review

Family-sized with a capacity of 2.2 pounds of food, this deep fryer has anadjustable temperature control for precisely frying french fries, doughnuts, fish, andcontemporary garnishes like crisp sage leaves. Its lid locks to seal in odors duringcooking, and a replaceable charcoal cartridge--good for about 30 uses--traps odors sothey don't escape when the lid is opened. For safety, the frying basket has an externalhandle, so it can be lowered and raised while the lid is closed. A light on the front shineswhen the fryer is turned on and blinks off when oil reaches the selected fryingtemperature. Square-shaped for easy storage, the fryer is clad in hard, bright plastic thatstays cool during operation. For easy cleanup, the nonstick oil pot, frying basket, and lidare dishwasher-safe. The power cord attaches to the fryer with a magnetic plug for safety.--Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• 2.2-lb capacity with exterior control basket
• Safe-to-touch exterior
• Removable nonstick pot for easy cleaning
• Adjustable thermostat for perfect temperture control
• Square shaped for easy storing; super charcoal filter

Reviews (47)

Magi-clean deep fryer
This fryer cooks well. Make sure you let it heat up compeltey first. Most of the pieces come out easy for cleaning in the dishwasher. However, cleaning the inside walls is difficult.

Doesn't heat oil to correct temperature
This is the second fryer we have purchased, and we are sorry we did.We had a DeLonghi that we really liked, but got tired of the clean up, so decided to give this one a try.Even after preheating for over 15 minutes at the highest temperature, the temperature of the oil never gets high enough to correctly fry the food. (I used a cooking thermometer to test the temperature on several different occasions; even after the 15 minute preheat, the temp. was at least 20 degrees too low. As every good fryer knows, correct temperature is key to great fried foods.)Everything comes out a bit soggy, and just doesn't have that great "fried flavor."We have used this fryer 5 or 6 times, and now it's headed for the trash can.

Better & Safer
So much better and safer than deep frying on the stove.I had read the reviews and they were mixed so I decided to be my own judge and I am very satisfied.It is so much cleaner and easier to handle.Previous reviewers commented on the odor.I have to say, compared to deep frying in a pot on the stove-this is basically odor free.The suggested timings tend to be off.I suggest checking your items frequently before they burn.Once you test it out a couple of times you will know what timings suit your quantity and type of cooking.Also, it would be helpful if T-FAL provided a few straining filters, just to get started. ... Read more

Asin: B00005JSG5
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Deep Fryers    4. Frying    5. Fry Pots    6. (Frypots)    7. (Fry Daddies)    8. (Deepfryers)    9. (Tfal)   

George Foreman GR10AWHT Champ Grill
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $39.99 -- our price: $17.95
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

This smaller version of George Foreman's famous "as seen on TV" Lean Mean Fat-Reducing Grilling Machine is perfect for preparing quick, low-fat meals for one or two people. The double-sided grill surface heats in less than five minutes to an even temperature perfect for grilling most foods. The high grill grooves and slight angle allow fat to run off the grill as food cooks, and the nonstick surface requires little or no additional fat for cooking. The plastic, grooved spatula works well to scrape off any bits that may have stuck to the surface.

Meats and fish are the obvious choices to take advantage of the Grilling Machine's fat-reduced grilling, but vegetables and tofu dogs work well too. The double-sided grill means food cooks twice as fast, leaves attractive grill marks, and generates surprisingly little smoke. --Julija Gelazis ... Read more

Features

• Interior wipes clean easily
• 6-by-7-inch nonstick cooking surface
• Great for grilling burgers, fish, vegetables
• Includes dishwasher-safe plastic drip tray and spatula
• Patented grill grooves let oil run off while food is cooking

Reviews (378)

Don't waste your money on this - buy a convection oven
I agree completely with Mr. Charles Tsen.Every thing he has written about this grill is right.I had the misfortune of buying this after reading all the hype about this useless appliance.I bougth it more than a year ago and promised myself that i would never use it again.It is ridiculosuly difficult to clean and you simply will never get the desired results.For all those people looking to get a great fat reducing machine, I would recommend that they should consider "Nesco American Harvest JS-4000TE Jet Stream Oven" from Amazon or any other site.I have been using this convection oven for the past 6-7 years and am extremely satisfied.One tip in prolonging the life of this convection oven is to use a fresh paper towel on the tray to absorb all the fat before using it.

This grill is a Champ
Quick heat up means a quick meal. As a busy single,I find that I can put a potato in the microwave, plug in the grill, preheat, put the meat on the grill and be ready by the time the potato is cooked and a vegetable is put together.Clean up is simple thanks to the nonstick coating. I cook everything, including eggplant on this grill.It is a definite necessity in my kitchen.

George Foreman where have you been all my life??
This is such an awesome little piece of kit and have recommended it to so many people! My five star review i guess also takes into condideration the price we paid. We go this when it was reduced to $14.99 and I doubt that, pound for pound, you could get a better kitchen gadget for that price.

As I had previously seen this on tv infomercials I was a little sceptical as I always am of these "gadgets", but this really has changed our kitchen lives. It heats up so fast and cooks very quickly and evenly (due to it cooking both sides at once).We really love the speed - its great to know that in four/five minutes you can have a perfect tuna-stek or porkchop without having to fire up the oven. It also frees up the oven to cook other things for your meal.

Its just big enough to cook two chicken breasts or two burgers, a porkchop or steak. But it can also be used for sausage links, bacon, vegetables and grilled cheese sandwiches.

Some people have mentioned they have real problems cleaning it up. Whilst yes it could be better but you literally just scrape off any excess and wipe it down. If you dont want to have to do that then you need to buy the one with removable plates but it would have cost us three times as much.

Be warned thought that the fat-collecting drip tray shouldnt be put in the dishwasher - we did and it melted part of it. ... Read more

Asin: B00004R93Z
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Indoor Grills    4. (George Forman)    5. Back to School    6. Gifts    7. Kitchen    8. Indoor Grilling   

KitchenAid KFP650 11-Cup Professional Food Processor, White
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $269.99
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Editorial Review

KitchenAid food processors enjoy an unsurpassed reputation. This top-of-the-line model demonstrates why. It's big: the main bowl holds 11 cups. It's powerful: a 670-watt motor guided by an electronic sensor provides smooth, consistent speed. It's remarkably easy to use: precisely fitted parts assemble and disassemble quickly, and the flick of a fingertip controls the on/off and pulse switches. It's also flexible: a 4-cup minibowl with its own blade fits inside the big bowl for smaller jobs.

As another plus, it's strikingly beautiful, a sleek embodiment of functionality. For a cook, operating this processor is a thrill--like driving a luxury car. Make no mistake, this is a substantial appliance meant for busy cooks preparing big meals. With a solid metal base providing countertop stability, it weighs 24 pounds and measures 14.8 inches high by 8.7 inches wide by 10-1/2 inches deep. The cord is 4-1/2 feet long, with permanent storage beneath the base for nearly 2 feet of that. But, despite its size, it's easy to care for: the base wipes clean with a sudsy cloth and all parts are dishwasher-safe.

Included with this model is a whip for egg whites and cream, a dough blade, a thin (2 millimeters), reversible disc for slicing and shredding, and medium (4 millimeters) shredding and slicing discs. All are stored in a plastic case (10-1/2 by 7-1/2 by 7 inches) with a white bottom and clear top. A video of tips and recipes is also included. Should the processor fail during its first year, KitchenAid's "total replacement" warranty means another machine will be delivered. Other than in that unlikely eventuality, no cook would part with this machine. --Fred Brack

Editor's Choice: KitchenAid's 11-cup food processor is our choice for the best food processor under $300. It demonstrates why the company's processors enjoy a great reputation. It has a 670-watt motor (with one speed and a pulse function) and an 11-cup plastic bowl. It comes with a whip for egg whites and cream, a dough blade, a thin (2-millimeter) reversible disc for slicing and shredding, and medium (4-millimeter) shredding and slicing discs--all of which are stored in a plastic case. ... Read more

Features

• One-year total replacement warranty
• Top-of-the-line model with 11-cup work bowl
• Includes 4-cup mini bowl with its own blade for small jobs
• 670 watts of smooth power guided by electronic sensor
• Dough blade, egg whip, slicing/shredding discs, and video recipes included

Reviews (34)

Why did I wait so long!
I haven't used a food processor since about 30 years ago when I was given a inexpensive discount store model. It was used a few months and given away because it was more trouble than it was worth. Hesitated before getting this KitchenAid because I wasn't sure I would use it enough to justify the expense. My shiny new KFP650 arrived, first thing I noticed is Whoa! this baby's HEAVY! Not gonna be dancing around on my counter like that model 30 years ago.Decided to whip up a batch of blonde brownies and give this bad boy a test run. Dumped in the dry ingredients and a cup of whole pecans that I wanted chopped up a bit. Turned it on, walked over to the door to let the dogs in, came back and where were my pecans!? No sign of them!! That's when I realized that I was playing with the big guns. Tho I have to admit, the ground pecans made such yummy brownies that I've continued to make them that way. This machine has handled everything I've tossed at it and sat there as if to say "That all ya got?" It has turned the drudgery of cooking into something I look forward to because I get to play with my KitchenAid. It's like driving a Porsche after 30 years of driving a go-cart! Watch out world! I'm looking at KitchenAid mixers now! Needless to say, I'm more than pleased with this food processor. Makes bread dough in a blink. I use it daily and sometimes many times a day. Wish I had bought one 30 years ago.

Not as big as I thought, but much more powerful!
It's powerful, solid, easy to clean, and SO quiet. What more could you ask for? Well, maybe a bigger bowl. When I purchased this I didn't know anything about food processors and I thought an 11 cup bowl would be HUGE, it's not. It's sufficient for most things, but I cook for a large family (7 or so) and find that I have to do some things in batches - that gets annoying. But it works amazingly well and is extremely easy to clean. Since I've purchased it I've seen some my friends have and can tell you this is the top of the line! (and consumer reports agrees)

Incredible work horse
Gone is my dinosaur of a Cuisinart...this powerful food processor does everything!Love the large 11-cup work bowl and the second insert to minimize cleaning during use.It doubles the capacity of your machine quickly.Then there is the mini bowl, perfect for chopping herbs or nuts.Easy cleaning due to the rounded shape...no corners to catch food!Super sharp blades...be careful!Love it! ... Read more

Asin: B00004SGE1
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Full-Size Food Processors    4. (Foodprocessors)    5. (Kitchen Aid)   

JET JJ-8CS / 708458K 8" Woodworking Jointer
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $1,639.00 -- our price: $1,099.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• Front and rear safety knife guide
• Extra long (9 w by 66-1/2-inch L) cast iron bed
• Three-knife cutter head
• 2hp, 1ph, 230-volt motor
• Easy-to-read infeed depth scale

Reviews (5)

LOOK ELSEWHERE IF YOU WANT GOOD SERVICE
I recently purchased the 8" jointer from jet after a good deal of research.When it arrived, the finish was o.k.It looked good, except for the front of the machine which was quite rough and had not been ground down after casting.Otherwise, it is a great looking tool.
I finally got it put together and wired up (about four hours total).I turned it on and it jumped to life.When I say jumped, I mean it started abruptly with a jerk, instead of smoothly and gradually.It also sputtered as it turned off.Upon further inspection and after smelling burning rubber, I opened it back up to have a look.There were black shavings all over the back of the machine, which turned out to be the belt.
I called the Jet service number.The guy told me to take apart the motor to tighten a set screw that was supposed to have been factory set.Very time consuming.That wasn't the problem.I called back and he told me to readjust all the pulleys and belts, which I had already done before calling.I did it again and that wasn't the problem either.He said he would send out a local Jet rep to look at it.Well that was four weeks ago.Not only was no rep sent out, the original service rep whom I had spoken with stopped returning my calls, would not answer repeated messages, and basically ignored me for a month.Finally, I got fed up and left a message in no uncertain terms that he needed to call me back that day because I needed this thing to work.It was jurting my business and it had been over a month.I said if they would not help me, then I wanted to return the machine.Only then did he get in touch with a local rep.
This guy called me the same day.I told him about the chunky motor and the black shavings.Guess what, he told me that the engine performance was normal and the belt could continue grinding itself away until it finds it's "natural position" - for up to a year.I find both of these things hard to beleive.At this point, however, because of the month of unreturned calls, it was apparently too late to get a refund or a new motor from Jet.You would think such a well known company would make more of an effort to satisfy it's customers.
I also own a Powermatic 66 saw, a Record lathe, a Craftsman bandsaw and a Rugged planer. None of the other tools in my furniture shop start or stop roughly at all, only the jet.I feel that I have now exhausted all of my options and am stuck with a tool that is slowly grinding itself away and service techs that could not care less.If I had it to do over, I would have gone with the Delta.

A great jointer with a couple of minor comments
Overall this is a great machine and I am glad to add this one to my woodworking tools. Putting it together is not easy, just the top weighs about 350 lbs. and you will need some help carrying this thing on top the stand. After securing in place everything should be easy with the exception of the belts which was not preset very well at least in my machine, so I have to loosen the motor mount base and slide for adjustment. It's like working in your car's motor. The manual wiring diagram did not match the motor wire color coding, so I have to call Jet for help, they are very helpful and will explain everything so you could hook it up. I don't blame them for not giving a male plug cord end since there's a lot of plug pattern to guess from. You will need to wire the shop for 240V. I am very happy with the machine, it works very well, and the long bed is really a good choice if you have the space.

Misma and Electrical
Make sure that you're manual's model# and picture match, and then, BEFORE you start putting it together, you need to check that all the wiring for your motor is finished and installed like it is in the instruction manual!!! It is a great tool, that performs and the fit and finish are excellent, BUT, ours was not wired as the manual said, so it got put together, and then we realized that there was no hardwiring (cord and plug),to the motor. For the price, I think that Jet should update the manual AND, at least,send the necessary cord and plug. I did not call Jet, so I don't know for sure why our jointer arrived without any wiring. The 4 stars is due to the above, the jointer itself has already proven that Jet was a good choice. ... Read more

Asin: B0000223M1
Sales Rank: 11166
Subjects:  1. Jointers    2. Stationary Jointers   

HALO
Average Customer Review:
Video Game (09 November, 2001)
list price: $49.99 -- our price: $19.95
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

More often than not, when a game is in development for more than threeyears, it does not live up to the hype. Bungie's Halo is the exception.Not only does it meet expectations, it greatly exceeds them. This sci-fifirst-person shooter is a nearly perfect blend of gameplay, graphics, and sound.

The story revolves around the conflict between humans and an alien race known asthe Covenant. The aliens have discovered a powerful artifact--on the ring-shapedplanet called Halo--that will shift the balance of power, and it's up to theplayer to stop them. In addition to several first-person-shooter levels, thegame offers numerous opportunities to engage in vehicular combat. Both the enemyand allied artificial intelligence are extremely impressive. Enemies will usethe terrain and layout to put you in tight spots. Allies will know when to coverand aid you. For instance, if you hop into a jeep, an ally will know to jump inand man the turret on the back of it.

The graphics are exquisitely detailed, but only move at 30 frames per secondrather than 60. The sound effects and voice acting are superb. The level designis among the best ever; most of the game is engaging and challenging withoutbeing frustrating. There's also high replay value thanks to the built-insingle-player, cooperative, and deathmatch modes.

Much like the outstanding GoldenEye 007 for Nintendo 64, Haloraises the bar for console first-person shooters. All console action games willbe measured against Halo for years to come. --Raymond M. Padilla

Pros:

• Outstanding game design
• High replay value
• Impressive AI

Cons:

• Several maps are used multiple times
• Save functions could have been better implemented
• Graphics move at 30 frames per second, not 60

... Read more

Features

• Huge Weapon Variety - Vanquish your enemies with a vast array of Human or Covenant weaponry ranging from the stealthy (semi-automatic pistols and needler guns) to the fierce (rocket launchers and blasters).
• Vehicle and Foot-Based Action - Tackle missions anyway you choose - be it storming an enemy base or taking the wheel or gunnery position of a variety of powerful vehicles. Vehicles range from stolen Covenant flyers to Human buggies and more.
• Indoor and Outdoor Combat - Fight seamlessly in Halo's ultra-realistic indoor and outdoor environments as you hunt the Covenant in a variety of single player missions and multiplayer battles.
• Intense Multiplayer Shoot-outs - Form a team, choose a role, and fight cooperatively with your friends, battle it out Deathmatch style via intense split screen, LAN-play or fight co-op with a friend through the single player missions.
• Incredible Mission Variety - Fight the Covenant in a variety of missions as you uncover the darksecrets of halo. Among your many objectives - attack enemy outposts, raid underground labs for advanced technology, rescue fallen comrades, steal alien vehicles and weaponry and snipe enemy forces.

Reviews (1607)

2 thumbs way up!
Hmmm, where to begin?This game kicks, that's all there is to it.No cheat codes, great storyline-escept for the fact that the marines fight for the UN, and not a more worthy world power, but no biggie.Great sound effects, storyline, wepon selection, music, charachter customizability, co-op, multiplayer, and maps.The enemies AI, however, will probably leave something to be desired...

The xbox's first killer app
I was the biggest Sony fanboy for so long.I refused to believe that the stupid xbox could outshine my gorgeous PS2.This all changed in the summer of '04.That was the fist time I played Halo.Since them I've probably beaten the game 30 times.My xbox is now my best friend, and sometimes my PS2 and Gamecube just have to sit and watch.

Halo is no doubt the original killer app for xbox.Halo 2 has since taken the crown thanks to its phenomenal multiplayer, but every loves to go back to Halo and relive that first rush they got playing the game and beating it on Legendary.In fact, I believe that this game was made to be played on Legendary.It may be frustrating at times, but when you finally beat it, there's a sense of relief like no other.

The single player game is awesome.Sure, the levels may be slightly repetitive, but you'll have your finger on the trigger so much that you won't even notice walking through the same hall a dozen times.When the end product overshadows any little things that may bother some people, you know you have a winner.The AI is amazing, especially on Legendary.You may quickly find yourself being ambushed, and those brushes with death make the game truly shine.

Halo brought on what many people believe is the biggest multiplayer revolution since Goldeneye on N64.With the addition of vehicles, it was easy to spend hours playing 4 player FFA or 2 vs 2 team games.When I discovered that you could link 4 xbox's together to system link, I was in awe.8 vs 8 games of CTF on Blood Gulch is still classic.NOTE:Halo is NOT xbox live capable.PC owners are reviewing on the xbox game stating how fun it is to play online.This feature is PC only for Halo.If you want online play, go for Halo 2.

So if you were like me, a Sony, or even a Nintendo fanboy, I dare you to give Halo a try.You might find yourself going to Best Buy tomorrow to pick up your own xbox.And at a newly released Platinum price of 19.99, it's hard to say no.

Makes me dizzy
Halo and Halo 2 makes me dizzy when I play it. Maybe it's the running around for a long time doing nothing.I don't know why cuz Xbox Star Wars Republic Commando plays just find and I don't get sick.Republic Commmando is much more fun cuz you have squadmates and constant action.Halo is good cuz of co-op play though , unless your friends also get motion sickness from Halo. ... Read more

Asin: B00005NZ1G
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Xbox (x box)    3. Microsoft    4. Action    5. Adventure   

A Dictionary of Japanese Food: Ingredients & Culture
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 January, 1997)
list price: $16.95 -- our price: $11.53
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (4)

Not totally comprehensive, but still excellent
If you have an interest in Japanese cooking, this book is a must. The dictionary does not contain every ingredient, utensil and dish that may be found in Japanese cuisine, but it makes a valiant attempt to do so. Entries are listed with a romanized pronunciation as well as the Japanese characters, sometimes with several variations of how to write the same term. In addition the excellent appendices explain in detail how such staples of the Japanese kitchen, such as shoyu and katsuobushi, are made and used. An invaluable reference for anyone who does not read Japanese at native-level fluency.

An absolute gem of a book, comprehensive and enlightening.
It is unique in a field that is not well documented in the English language.The main body is a Japanese-English dictionary of Japanese foodstuffs. Entries go: Japanese name in romaji (Roman alphabet), kana,kanji, (Chinese characters), then the English translation, then anyscientific name. Each definition is several lines long, including detailsof preparation, culinary uses, and cultural, regional and seasonal notes. The book is profusely cross-referenced and illustrated in black and white.There is an Engish-Japanese glossary at the back and seventeen appendicescovering key items such as katsuobushi, miso, Buddhist vegetarian cuisineand so on in greater detail.

This is not a cookbook, there are no recipesor instructions. Rather, it is a treasure-chest of culinary detail,illuminating a great deal that was previously hidden.The Japanese cuisineis vast and varied, but largely mysterious and unknown outside Japan,because there are very few definitive books written in languages other thanJapanese.I am not certain that a comparative book exists even in Japan;it was compiled from Japanese sources but some of these were very old orquite obscure or scholarly.I can recommend it to anyone who knowsanything about Japan or Japanese food and wants to make a quantum leap ofknowledge and understanding.

An absolute gem of a book, comprehensive and enlightening
It is unique in a field that is not well documented in the English language.The main body is a Japanese-English dictionary of Japanese foodstuffs.Entries go: Japanese name in romaji, kana, kanji, (Chinesecharacter), then the English translation, then any scientific name. Eachdefinition is several lines long, includes details of preparation, culinaryuses, and cultural, regional and seasonal notes.The book is profuselycross-referenced and illustrated in black and white. There is anEngish-Japanese glossary at the back and seventeen appendices covering keyitems such as katsuobushi, miso, Buddhist vegetarian cuisine and so on ingreater detail.

This is not a cookbook, there are no recipes orinstructions. Rather, it is a treasure-chest of culinary detail,illuminating a great deal that was previously hidden.The Japanese cuisineis vast and varied, but largely unknown outside Japan, because there arevery few definitive books written in languages other than Japanese.I amnot certain that a comparative book even exists in Japan; it was compiledfrom Japanese sources but some of these were very old or quite obscure.Ican recommend it to anyone who knows anything about Japan or Japanese foodand wants to make a quantum leap of knowledge and understanding. ... Read more

Isbn: 0804820422
Sales Rank: 136123
Subjects:  1. Cookery, Japanese    2. Cooking    3. Cooking / Wine    4. Dictionaries    5. English    6. Food Science    7. Japanese    8. Japanese language    9. Regional & Ethnic - Japanese   

Canon Speedlite 420EX Flash for Canon EOS SLR Cameras
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $299.99 -- our price: $177.59
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Though TTL compatible with all Canon EOS cameras and the manual-focus T90 SLR, the Canon Speedlite 420EX flash is also E-TTL compatible with all A-type bodies: EOS-1v, EOS-3, Elan 7 / 7E, Elan II/IIE, Rebel 2000, Rebel G, and EOS IX and IX Lite. The E-TTL function gives you features like high-speed FP sync mode and FE lock (spot/partial flash metering). The swivel head of the 420EX lets you bounce the light off the surrounding surfaces, giving your images soft, professional-quality lighting.

This flash also works as a wireless "slave" flash with EOS-1v, EOS-3, Elan 7 / 7E, and D30 bodies. The remote flash firing is controlled entirely by a master unit--such as the Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2, Speedlite 550EX, or Macro Ring Lite MR-14EX--connected to the camera, making it fast and simple to set up. When used with the EOS-1V, EOS-3, or EOS D30 cameras, additional features such as lighting ratio control and modeling flash are also supported by the 420EX. ... Read more

Features

• TTL compatible with all Canon EOS bodies
• E-TTL features with some Canon EOS bodies
• Uses 4 AA batteries
• Works with all Canon EOS bodies
• Swivel head for bounce flash photography

Reviews (23)

420 with G3
I've used a 420 with my G3 for about 2 years:
the two things that have most improved the quality of my photos are (1) external flash and (2) tripod...... mostly take the usual home photos (proms, birthday parties and so on) and some garden pics...... use rechargeable batteries with the 420 and have taken more than 100 pics on a full charge (have never used them up but carry a spare set of alkalines anyway)..... also have a diffuser for the 420 but have not found it to be useful..... now looking into getting a 20D or digital rebel and the 420 will work with either

Can never have enough light!
The greatest shortcoming of the Canon Digital Rebel Camera is its built in, pop-up flash. The pop-up flash is too weak for many situations - and often is not spaced high enough from the camera body to avoid red-eye, lens hoods or telephoto lens bodies shadow. I purchased the 420EX to improve on these situations.

After a year of use - I LIKE my purchase of the 420EX.

Things I enjoy with my 420 EX:

1. More powerful than the built in flash of the Digital Rebel
2. Swivel/Bounce head offers great flexability for many different situations.
3. Synchs perfectly to the Digital Rebel's exposure computer through the hot-shoe or hot shoe extender cord. Measures zoom level of standard zoom camera lens - and gives a good overall automatic exposure.
4. Light enough to mount on an L/U aluminum bracket without throwing the camera out of balance. Use of a BGE-1 battery grip is highly recommended with a portrait photographers U bracket.
5. Not a power hog. Can get up to 150-200 photos out of a set of four 2300 amp/hr Ni-Mh AA rechargables. (Always have a second set ready to go if on assignment - with a charger for the expended batteries.)
6. Works well in slave mode. This is where it earns its money for me!
7. Works well with a bounce light diffuser hood for portrait work.
8. Height above lens eliminates most red-eye situations.
9. GREAT VALUE for the money!
10. Hot shoe mount eliminates all but the longest telephoto lens shadows.

Things I 'd like to see improve:

1. Not powerful enough. You can NEVER have enough light. The 580EX gains almost two full F-stops over the 420EX - though you pay a price almost double in cost.
2. Battery door is flimsy - and sometimes fails to latch securely. (This is embarassing when you're shooting for a client and batteries are rolling all over the place - I know... I need to be more careful!!!)
3. Tends toward underexposure in large or high ceilinged rooms. (You can never have enough light!)
4. Lacks strobe, LCD display functions of the more expensive 580EX.

A good solid product for most occasions. A great value for the money. Improves on the Digital Rebel's anemic pop-up flash. Eliminates most red-eye situations. Still not powerful enough for the discriminating photographer.

Got a Canon SLR? Shoot Inside? Get a 420EX.
It doesn't matter if you shoot film or digital. It doesn't matter if you have an old Rebel XS film SLR or even a PowerShot Pro1 digicam (Not even an slr)!, if your canon camera has a hotshoe, This will work on it. And not just "yeah, it works", it'll be a "HOLY COW, look at that shot!" Bounce Flash is so easy it made me want to cry. And I use a 1986 manual focus T90 side by side with an Elan 7n. All you do is point the the flash head at SOMETHING white, and shoot. You'll never go back to direct flash. Care for wireless flash? the 420EX is the PERFECT slave, and with a 550/580EX or a ST-E2, you can control the light output without even leaving your camera.
Stop using the built in flash. Treat yourself to something nice. ... Read more

Asin: B00004YZLX
Subjects:  1. Electronic Flash (Flashes)   

DEWALT D51845 Full Round Head Framing Nailer
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware (09 December, 2001)
list price: $606.00 -- our price: $259.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

DeWalt asked professional framers what they wanted in a nailer,and the result is this workhorse. It's light and comfortable in yourhand but packs the power to drive up to 3-1/2-inch nails, and becauseit's only about a foot tall, it lends itself beautifully to working intight spaces. Jams clear in a jiffy thanks to a hassle-freequick-release mechanism, and the dry fire lockout keeps the tool fromfiring when your magazine is almost empty, preventing internal damage.The bump-action trigger comes installed, but you'll receive thesequential action trigger, too. The best innovation of all is thetool-free depth adjustment--no more grappling with wrenches and messingwith air pressure. Action is smooth, the injection-molded rubber gripfeels strong and sure, and a reversible belt/rafter hook will keep itright where you need it. --Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• Cast titanium exhaust plate for durability
• Magnesium frame and magazine weighs only 7.5 pounds
• Only 12.75-inches tall, can drive nails in the tightest openings
• Delivers plenty of power, 900 in./lbs. @ 100 psi, for engineered lumber
• Tool-free depth adjustment

Reviews (17)

Perfect operation
I purchased this nailer a couple of years ago because of the name.I own several other DeWalt tools and have always been very happy with them.This nailer has yet to let me down.I have noticed that the selection of full head nails at the local building supply warehouse is less than the clipped head nails.However Amazon seems to carry all I could ever want, so this has not been a problem.
The only times the gun has jammed on me has been operator error.I had left a single nail in the magazine when adding a new stick of nails.The single nail slipped out of place and jammed.However it takes under a minute to remove the magazine, clear the jam, reassemble and reload.
The safety by the trigger is the gun's only flaw.I have small hands and so do not mind it being so small, but someone with larger hands, especially wearing gloves may not be able to turn it.It also doesn't seem very robust.However I rarely use it, I prefer to disconnect the air hose as then I can be certain it will not fire.
When I use 3 1/4" nails, I do find if the nail goes into a knot, I sometimes need to finish it off with a hammer.Other than that, I've not had a problem with the power of the gun

51845 My thoughts
I read the previous reviews and I got the impressoin that this nailer "could" do the job. Well I was wrong, this nailer went head to head with a bostitch N88ww nailer and I was crushed. The dewalt lacked the power to countersink 3 1/2 nails into some old pine. The best I could do is get a bearly flush head about 60 percent of the time. I tried adjusting everything I could to get the perfomance I expected from a dewalt tool. This nailer lasted about 30 minutes on site before it was back in the box ready to get shipped back.

The Right Ammo!
I have owned and used this fine air nailer for about 6 months, and it has functioned flawlessly so long as I behaved. If, as some of the other reviewers have claimed, you are having problems with double firing or jamming, take a good look at the ammo you are loading into your gun. My gun went bonkers with double firing for about 6 sticks of nails and then a hardcore jam of two 3.5" nails. The jam was so intense; it galled and peened the nails as one. After close inspection, it was discovered that the malfunction was caused by operator error.The gun was loaded with CLIPPED HEAD ammo instead of the required FULL ROUND HEAD ammo.After hand filing the rough shards of tainted metal from the firing chamber and a good cleaning, all systems were good to go.

Bottom line: this nail gun is designed and built with first class components. As a matter of fact the gun is such a fine work of art that I believe that if it had existed in the year 33 A.D. the vile, debauchery of a mob would have used it to pin Jesus to the cross during the Passion of the Christ.
... Read more

Asin: B00005NMUX
Subjects:  1. Air Tools    2. Nailers    3. Framing Nailers    4. (Nail Guns)    5. (Nailguns)    6. (De Walt)   

Waring JEX328 Health Juice Extractor
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $130.00 -- our price: $69.95
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Juicing is a healthful way to eat fruits and veggies, and the Waring Juice Extractor takes juicing to the next level. A high-speed 400-watt motor makes the extraction process efficient, and makers of carrot juice will especially appreciate the brushed stainless-steel housing--the extractor won't turn orange with age.

Everyone who's ever owned a juicer knows that cleanup is the biggest downfall of home juicing. With the Waring, that won't be an issue--the compact strainer, pulp collector, lid, and juice collector are all dishwasher-safe, and the stainless-steel body wipes clean with a sponge. The extractor's die-cast base stays steady on the countertop, and its cushioned feet will minimize vibration, protecting the countertop from scratches. The extractor comes with an instruction book, a five-year limited warranty on the motor, and a one-year limited appliance warranty. --Ariel Meadow Stallings ... Read more

Features

• Five-year limited warranty on the motor, one-year limited appliance warranty
• Juicer provides healthful way to eat fruits and vegetables
• High-speed 400-watt motor
• Brushed stainless-steel housing eliminates stains
• Compact strainer, pulp collector, lid, and juice collector are all dishwasher-safe

Reviews (60)

Poor extraction of Juice...lots of pulp
Bought the Jex328 Waring Pro.This machine works well except that the juice is full of pulp.I have to use a strainer to remove the excess pulp before I can enjoy the juice.I am now looking for another juicer...and as this is the first time I am using a Waring, should I stick with the brand or search somewhere else.

PULPY AND WASTEFUL
Motor sounds great, but juices are kinda pulpy.
Plus the accumulated pulps have plenty of juice in them.
The pulp should be somewhat dry with no juice comming out when squeezed, hence 1 star rating.

QUICK & EASY!
This juicer is super simple to use and best of all VERY easy to clean !We have a old champion juicer that is complicated and inconvenient for everyday juicing,but the Waringis small enough to leave out for everyday use. ... Read more

Asin: B000050FB5
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Juice Extractors    4. Juicers    5. Juicing    6. Juice Machines   

Holmes HRH314 Radiant Heater
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $34.99
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Editorial Review

Inexpensive, durable, and lightweight, this 1,500-watt forced-air heater warms an entire room, and its thermostat automatically maintains the room at a consistent temperature. Made of steel and easily portable with its built-in handle, it's great for a house, workshop, basement, or garage--or for moving from one area to another. As a radiant heater, it quickly provides focused heat while later warming an entire room. The heater measures 17-1/2 by 11 by 6-1/2 inches. It automatically shuts off if it tips over or overheats, and it carries a one-year warranty against defects. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Measures 17-1/2 by 11 by 6-1/2 inches
• Fan circulates heat throughout room with 1500-watt power setting
• Made of lightweight steel; great for house, workshop, basement, garage
• Automatically shuts off if tipped over
• Thermostat automatically regulates heat for consistent room temperature

Reviews (6)

Heater stopped working 3 weeks after purchase.
I ordered this heater from Amazon to have a little additional warmth in our home office during the chilly winter months.The heat output was far less than expected, and did not seem able to significantly warm the not terribly large (12x10) space.I was also a little disturbed when the unit was accidentally tipped one night and did NOT turn itself off.Fortunately I was in the room when this happened and no harm was done.The real problem though is the heater simply stopped producing heat after 3 weeks of very light use in one room. The fan would blow, but the coils would not heat, turning the device into a fan, rather than a heater.I'm definitely steering clear of Holmes heaters now while searching for my replacement heater.Not at all recommended.

poor heating quality
I purchased two of these heaters awhile back.I found them to be noisy and not really all that effective at heating the childrens bedrooms.I would not buy them again.

Don't Buy This Heater!
I bought this heater in Oct and used it very little until it quit working in Dec. I tried contacting the company by Planetfeedback.com and through their website to resolve this issue, but apparently they don't see the need to respond to consumer complaints.
I can understand a product being defective, but when a company won't stand behind their products I won't continue to do business with them. ... Read more

Asin: B000050I83
Subjects:  1. Space Heaters   

Hunter Fan 23800 42" Low Profile Ceiling Fan
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $90.00
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Reviews (2)

GREATEST LOW PROFILE THERE EVER IS!!!
I've had this Low Profile until my family moved. It was White,not Antique Brass. I adapted it with Hunter's Bullet Spotlights in White. There was one problem with it: When I went to pull the fan's pull chain one night, the Medium speed got broken. My Father,the electrician of my house, had to check the wiring. I was told not to turn it on and leave the cap off. It still works,for a very good fan!!!

Buy This Ceiling Fan
This fan was easy to install (once the proper junction box was installed!) and is whisper quiet.For these reasons alone, this fan is worth purchasing. ... Read more

Asin: B00002N5YR
Sales Rank: 18236
Subjects:  1. Fans    2. Ceiling Fans   

How to Be an Ass-Whipping Boxer
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 October, 2000)
list price: $18.95 -- our price: $12.89
(price subject to change: see help)
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Reviews (8)

Snake-like, Savage, Unorthodox
It's pretty cool and unlike any other fighting book I've seen. It's got some cool bizarre techniques, it's very unorthodox. This book is a collection of Champ's small books from the 70s and early 80s, so it can be a little repetitive when you go from one book to another. Champ mostly shows a stance with your lead hand low protecting your body and rear hand high protecting your face/head. Champ calls it the "Stonewall Defense" stance since it doesn't leave you open and it's mostly about counter punching. You're kind of like a coiled cobra and he shows you how to strike with speed and power. It does seem to have it's faults for self-defense though- since your lead hand is low, you block right hand power punches with your shoulder and that could really weaken your arm against a bare fist. Champ does say that the stonewall "will make a minor contribution to general personal defense" and that it's mostly for "all students of boxing." I saw Aaron Pryor, a great champ from the 80's, using a similar stance on ESPN Classic. The opponent shown in the book looks unskilled and leaves himself open, which really makes "your" techniques and stance shine. He says that the stance is difficult to learn and it is, especially if you're used to the normal guard with both hands up. I don't think his stance is as perfect as he claims but he is entertaining to read. As far as boxing goes, if you can make this book work for you it's worth five stars. The advice on power is very interesting and is my favorite part of the book. Champ Thomas is supposed to be famous but I've searched the net and can't find anything at all about him.

How to Be an Ass-Whipping Boxer
If you are completely green to boxing the contents of this book will rush down on you like a river whose dam suddenly broke. At first some of the concepts were alein to me. I had already been kickboxing when I picked up this book for the first time so some of the concepts seemed out dated, however,after some study I understood hoew he used these things.You have to know something going into the book, J.C. Thomas lived in a time when men fought with and without gloves and aginst single and multiple oppoents(boombattle) and he made a living at it.His "prattle" gives important insight into how he lived. One important example is a story he tells of a boxer killing a man in the ring. How many pros have died in pro fights in the last decade or two? Probably not many if any at all. And look at the difference in the prizes between then and now. He fought for stale bread to eat you think Tyson,Douglas or any of these other new boxers would risk death for stale bread? Besides that he spent time in the navy, and at the time it was a lot harder on a person than the modern Navy so tough was trained into you.To people who doubt his power, you work his drills everyday in a single minded attempt to bulid power and see what happens. If you would like to study combat arts seriously pick up this book and the following: The Tao of Jeet Kune DO, Renaissance Swordmanship, a book on Iron Hand training and Kung Fu Iron body trianing. Read the swordsmanship book first and then the Tao of JKD then this book and use the other two as refenece. You would also be well advised to either or both of Ned beaumonts books on boxing. And if you want a book that will teach you to get strong without weights get the Naked Warrior by Pavel it is the perfect companion to the other bookslet me just say this, I do not have alot of confidence in Pavel T. but this time he delivers the goods, however he has some other products that are inticing but don't fall into this trap, stick to these basics and Beumonts suggestions on hiking ( I would add at least 60 pound pack to this)or maybe substitute sled pulls for aerobic conditioning . All except one or two of these books are sold right here on amazon.com.

SERIOUS LESSONS WITH FUNNY DRAWINGS
You need a lot of things if you want to become a consistent '...-whipping' pugilist. First and foremost, you have to be strong, resilient, hard-working, and determined. Then you should pay attention to the serious lessons this book has for you.
From its contents, ex-champ Thomas and his co-authors showed that they were dedicated in their effort. They designed this book for beginners and amateurs. A lot of useful information are in it: including some basic tactics that amateurs and pros alike, often neglect. Step-by-step do-it-yourself method was used throughout. I cherished the simple outlook. The only unserious issue that you will encounter in this book is its funny illustrative figures. But, you will understand. Boxers enjoy fun too! ... Read more

Isbn: 1559502053
Sales Rank: 177328
Subjects:  1. Boxers (Sports)    2. Boxing    3. Sports    4. Sports & Recreation