Member Reviews: Messermeister 8-1/2-Inch Take-Apart Utlility Shear

This shear was rated the best by Cook's Illustrated but I've owned the older version since about 2002 and it is my favorite for comfort as well as maintaining its edge for a long time before requiring sharpening.  I use it in place of a boning knife with poultry as it is much easier to use while negotiating small-boned cuts.  Of course, the take-apart feature is a must when cleaning up after poultry prep. I also have the second-rated Wusthof take-apart shear but I still use my Messermeister most of the time; having a right-handed grip makes for a comfortable experience for "righties" but is anathema for "lefties".

 For the longest time I thought kitchen shears were the silliest thing. Why would anyone need them if you have a good chefs knife? Boy was I wrong and I mean really wrong. After seeing a demo of these on America's Test Kitchen I was really interested to try them.  After receiving them as a fit this year I have to say I am really impressed. They are extremely sharp and I can cut through chicken bones with ease. I actually like using them on chicken instead of my chefs knife so I can preserve the edge.  I also like that there are several little gadgets built into the handle such as a bottle opener, jar opener and small screwdriver. The shears take a part with no trouble at all and make them...