Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

This shaver works wonderfully! I had a long road to get to this shaver, so I've included my experience below for anyone who is as obsessive as I am about shaved ice. The short version is that this shaver isn't absolutely perfect but for home use it's the best option I've seen under $800. I don't think most people really need an ice shaver at home, but if you are going to get one then this is a good choice. I am completely satisfied with my decision to purchase it. Why this shaver: I originally purchased a large block ice shaver from another manufacturer. It looked like a large blue drill press that was slightly modified to shave ice. That machine arrived dirty and a swab test of the shaver plate tested positive for lead. I wanted something that was safer and that's what lead me to the Little Snowie 2. While the Little Snowie 2 is made in China, the build quality is excellent and (as far as I can tell) everything about it is food grade. Additionally, when I contacted the Snowie through their web site, they were very responsive and helpful. I had a lot of confidence buying their product. The ice quality: Cube shavers don't produce ice as fine as block shavers, but this comes pretty close. I emailed the company prior to purchasing and was told this (paraphrased): 'On a scale of 1 to 100, with 1 being the old crushed ice shavers and 100 being a block ice shaver, this is an 85.' I would say that is an accurate description. The vast majority of the ice this produces is powdery perfection, with a few little flakes mixed in. They aren't enough to take away from the quality of the snow ball. Product description: The shaver is about the size of a coffee pot and fits well on a counter. It is very well designed. I was initially concerned because it's smaller and lighter than I'd expect for the amount I paid, but my concerns vanished after I used it the first time. The build quality is excellent and the ice it produces is wonderful. The low size and weight are a good thing. It is quite loud from the ice bouncing around as it shaves, so I'd recommend ear plugs. Replacement blades are available and the manufacturer told me that the blade is good for about 1000 cones. Thoughts on use: It will take a little while to figure out how to make the best ice. In general, using ice cubes that are larger, rounder, and colder will give you a better product. I use bagged cubes and they work great. Syrups with more sugar produce a smoother product. If your syrup is too watery or too warm, it will melt and refreeze the snow. Once you get your technique down, you can start reducing the sugar content if desired. I can now use syrup that is more than 3 parts water to 1 part sugar and get good results. Find the right cup and spoon. If you use warm glass cups and metal spoons, the ice will melt on contact.