Emson Sonic Blade Cordless Electric Knife

Cordless rechargeable knives are not all that prevalent on the market -- and the one that garners the most positive reviews also, ironically, draws the most negative comments. That product is the Sonic Blade Cordless Electric Knife, marketed by Emson Inc., the company that also brings you the Bonzai Chopper and the Torpedo Blender. Many of Emson's products have become well known to consumers through the company's extensive use of infomercial marketing.

The Sonic Blade knife is powered by a rechargeable battery, and it comes with a charging block. The knife has a non-slip rubber handle and trigger, and also features a safety lock. The stainless-steel blades are dishwasher safe, and the knife comes with a one-year warranty. Availability is limited, as we found only a few retail websites that carry the Sonic Blade knife, and user reviews are decidedly mixed. Some say the knife is powerful, durable and capable of excellent performance. But other users report significant problems with the unit, ranging from short battery life to weak power output to product deficiencies and malfunctions.

If portability is not essential to you and you'd rather go with a corded product from a conventional small-electrics manufacturer, the Cuisinart CEK-40 Electric Knife (*Est. $50) gets high marks from professional reviewers and home cooks, who say it cleanly and easily glides through foods. It comes with a butcher-block stand, a long cord and an ergonomic handle. If you would prefer a more basic and less expensive knife, the Hamilton Beach Carve 'n Set Electric Knife 74250 (*Est. $20) also gets positive reviews.