I bought it in 1986 in California and it's still going strong! Don't fear for my fingers. The Benriner comes with a finger guard to hold your food when it gets too close to the blade. I've found the best price for these (which I've given as gifts) here: http://quickspice.com/cgi-bin/SoftCart.exe/scstore/cookware-slicer-benrinermandolin.shtml?L+scstore+usad0982+1233102443