An electric fillet knife earns its place beside a cutting board when a fishing trip ends with a cooler full of fish and a long cleaning session ahead. The reciprocating blades do much of the sawing, helping separate fillets from skin and ribs faster than a conventional hand knife. The best choice depends on more than motor speed, though. Blade flexibility, blade length, grip security, battery arrangement, cord reach, cleaning access, and storage all affect how useful the tool will be beside a dock, on a boat, or at a kitchen counter.
A common mistake is choosing a knife with the longest blade or the largest collection of accessories without checking whether its blade style suits the fish being prepared. A flexible blade can provide better control around smaller fish, while a longer or stiffer blade may be more practical for larger catches. Cordless models bring freedom around outdoor cleaning tables, but corded knives offer consistent access to power. Wet hands also make handle texture, trigger placement, and safety locks especially meaningful.
This comparison focuses on documented features from the supplied product information, with separate attention to portability, blade versatility, power format, cleaning, and storage. Different anglers will prioritize different traits. A frequent saltwater angler may prefer a hard case and interchangeable batteries, while an occasional home user may favor a compact corded setup. The nine selections below cover those use cases without treating every electric fish knife as interchangeable.
Quick Answer
Best Overall: BUBBA Li-Ion Cordless Electric Fillet Knife combines four coated reciprocating blades, a non-slip handle, an LED battery indicator, removable blades, and a storage case. It is the most complete match for anglers who want a portable setup with several blade options.
Best for Extended Filleting: Rapala R12 Heavy-Duty Lithium Fillet Knife Combo lists an 80-minute run time, a heavy-duty motor, 6-inch and 7.5-inch blades, and a protective EVA case.
Best Cordless Blade Range: WORKPRO 12V Cordless Electric Fillet Knife includes an 8-inch flexible blade, a 10-inch stiff blade, two rechargeable batteries, and a fast charger.
Best for Complete Fish Cleaning: Seesii Cordless Electric Fillet Knife includes four blades, two batteries, a scaler, fin shears, gloves, and a case for buyers who want a broader fish-cleaning kit.
Best Electric Fillet Knife Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Power Format | Blade Selection |
|---|---|---|---|
| BUBBA Li-Ion Cordless Electric Fillet Knife | Overall portability | Rechargeable cordless | Four coated blades |
| Rapala R12 Heavy-Duty Lithium Fillet Knife Combo | Long cleaning sessions | Rechargeable cordless | 6-inch and 7.5-inch blades |
| WORKPRO 12V Cordless Electric Fillet Knife | Flexible and stiff blade versatility | Rechargeable cordless | 8-inch and 10-inch blades |
| BUBBA 110V Electric Fillet Knife | Steady corded power | 110V with 8-foot cord | Four coated blades |
| Rapala Heavy Duty Electric Fillet Knife | Heavy-duty corded work | Corded | 7.5-inch reciprocating blades |
| FLISSA 12V Cordless Electric Fillet Knife | Portable fish cleaning | Rechargeable cordless | 8-inch and 10-inch blades |
| Seesii Cordless Electric Fillet Knife | Complete cleaning kit | Rechargeable cordless | Four replaceable blades |
| KastKing Speed Demon 110V Electric Fillet Knife | Small-handle control | 110V with 8-foot cord | 7-inch and 9-inch blade sets |
| Old Timer Cordless Electric Fillet Knife | Simple cordless use | Rechargeable cordless | 8-inch serrated blade |
The detailed reviews below show where each knife fits, along with the blade, power, handling, and maintenance trade-offs that may matter after the fish are on the cleaning table.
1. BUBBA Li-Ion Cordless Electric Fillet Knife — Best Overall
The BUBBA Li-Ion model is the most balanced choice in this group for anglers who want a self-contained filleting setup. Its cordless format avoids a power lead across a wet cleaning table, while the listed 1.11-pound weight keeps the handle from becoming an obvious burden during repeated cuts. The 8.5-inch handle includes a non-slip grip and trigger guard, two practical details for work around water, scales, and fish slime.
Blade flexibility is often more useful than raw motor claims, and this kit gives buyers four Ti-Nitride stainless steel coated reciprocating blades to choose from. The available information does not specify the exact length of every blade, so buyers should inspect the included configuration before purchase. Removable blades simplify cleaning, while the LED battery indicator gives a quick visual check before the next fish is placed on the board. The zippered case also keeps the blades and charger together instead of leaving sharp parts loose in a tackle box.
Pros
- Cordless design suits docks, boats, and remote cleaning tables.
- Includes four coated reciprocating blades for broader cutting flexibility.
- Non-slip grip and trigger guard support control with wet hands.
- LED battery indicator helps monitor remaining charge.
- Removable blades and a dedicated storage case simplify cleanup and transport.
Cons
- The supplied information does not identify the length or flexibility of each included blade.
- A rechargeable setup requires charging before a fishing trip.
This is the strongest fit for buyers who want portability without giving up blade choice or organized storage. It also suits anglers who may move between a boat, dock, and home without access to an outlet. Buyers who process fish beside a permanent power source may prefer a corded BUBBA or Rapala instead, since those models avoid battery planning. For most mixed-use fishing situations, the BUBBA’s combination of grip features, blade quantity, and removable components makes the trade-off reasonable.
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2. Rapala R12 Heavy-Duty Lithium Fillet Knife Combo — Best for Extended Filleting
The Rapala R12 takes a more substantial approach to electric fish cleaning. Its published information lists a heavy-duty motor and an 80-minute run time, making it a logical choice for anglers who routinely bring home several fish rather than a single dinner. The battery-powered design preserves the mobility expected from a fishing tool, while the EVA hard plastic case provides more structured protection than a soft bag.
The included 6-inch and 7.5-inch blades give this knife a useful spread for smaller fish, tighter work, and longer fillet cuts. Blade flexibility details are not supplied, so the lengths should guide expectations without being treated as a complete description of cutting behavior. The ergonomic grip is intended to support control during longer sessions, but comfort remains personal and depends on hand size and grip technique. Rapala’s established fishing-tool focus also makes this a natural fit for anglers who want a dedicated fish-cleaning system.
Pros
- Published 80-minute run time supports longer cordless sessions.
- Heavy-duty motor is intended for demanding fish-cleaning work.
- 6-inch and 7.5-inch blades cover smaller and larger filleting tasks.
- EVA hard case protects the knife during transport and storage.
- Ergonomic grip is intended to reduce hand fatigue during repeated use.
Cons
- The supplied information does not specify the blade flexibility of the two included blades.
- The larger motor and case may be more equipment than occasional anglers need.
Choose the R12 if extended cordless runtime and a protective case rank above having four blades. It is particularly suitable for a cleaning table where an outlet is unavailable and several fish may be waiting in the cooler. A buyer who mostly handles panfish or wants a smaller kit may find the 6-inch and 7.5-inch selection more useful than a longer 10-inch blade. Those seeking the broadest documented blade variety should look toward the BUBBA or Seesii instead.
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3. WORKPRO 12V Cordless Electric Fillet Knife — Best for Flexible and Stiff Blade Versatility
The WORKPRO stands out through a clear two-blade arrangement: an 8-inch flexible blade and a 10-inch stiff blade. That pairing gives the buyer a straightforward way to switch between more controlled filleting and longer, firmer cuts. The listing identifies carbon stainless steel for the blades, although it does not provide a specific alloy designation. The distinction between flexible and stiff blades matters more here than a vague claim about sharpness because different fish and cutting positions call for different levels of blade movement.
Two 2.0Ah lithium-ion batteries are included, and the supplied information lists up to one hour of use per battery with a charging time of about one hour. Actual runtime can vary with pressure, fish size, and cutting conditions, but the spare battery reduces the need to stop while one pack charges. At about one pound before the blade and battery, the handle is relatively light on paper. A rubber-coated grip, safety lock, charger, and heavy-duty case round out a kit aimed at anglers who want a practical portable setup.
Pros
- Includes clearly identified 8-inch flexible and 10-inch stiff blades.
- Two 2.0Ah batteries reduce charging interruptions.
- Fast charger is listed with an approximate one-hour charge time.
- Light handle weight before the blade and battery may help during repeated work.
- Safety lock, rubber-coated grip, and case support organized outdoor use.
Cons
- The blade material is described generally as carbon stainless steel without a specific alloy designation.
- The 10-inch blade may be cumbersome for small fish or tight cutting spaces.
The WORKPRO is a sensible selection for anglers who want the most obvious blade-length and flexibility distinction in one cordless package. It works particularly well for mixed catches where a short, flexible option and a longer, stiff option may both earn their place. Buyers who prefer a known brand’s established accessory ecosystem may lean toward Rapala or BUBBA, while those who want four blades and extra cleaning tools should look elsewhere.
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4. BUBBA 110V Electric Fillet Knife — Best for Steady Corded Power
The corded BUBBA uses the same basic strengths that make the cordless version appealing, but replaces battery planning with an 8-foot power cord. That arrangement makes sense for a fish-cleaning station near an outlet, garage workbench, or covered outdoor table. The documented 1.11-pound weight and 8.5-inch handle keep the core tool relatively compact, while the non-slip grip and trigger guard address the slippery conditions common to fish preparation.
Four Ti-Nitride stainless steel coated non-stick reciprocating blades are included, giving this model a broader blade selection than simpler single-blade electric knives. The supplied data does not list the individual blade lengths, so the product is easier to recommend for buyers who value quantity and coating than for anyone seeking a precisely defined flexible-versus-stiff setup. Removable blades can be taken out for cleaning and stored in the zippered case, but the power cord adds a physical limit that cordless users will notice immediately.
Pros
- 110V corded operation avoids battery charging during a cleaning session.
- Includes four Ti-Nitride coated reciprocating blades.
- Eight-foot cord provides useful reach around a fixed cleaning area.
- Non-slip handle and trigger guard support secure operation.
- Removable blades and a storage case make organization easier.
Cons
- Requires access to a suitable outlet near the work area.
- The supplied information does not identify the lengths or flexibility of the four blades.
This model is a strong match for buyers who clean fish at home or maintain a semi-permanent station. It can be ready whenever needed, without remembering to charge a battery before leaving for the lake. Boat users and remote anglers may find the cord restrictive, especially around crowded decks or damp surfaces. Choose it over the cordless BUBBA when uninterrupted access to household power matters more than maximum mobility.
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5. Rapala Heavy Duty Electric Fillet Knife — Best for Heavy-Duty Corded Work
The Rapala Heavy Duty Electric Fillet Knife is built around a corded motor and a 7.5-inch reciprocating blade. Its published description emphasizes a heavy-duty motor and lists the blades as dishwasher safe, which may appeal to buyers who want a familiar corded routine and simpler cleanup. The 7.5-inch length sits between compact and extra-long options, offering a practical middle ground for many routine fish-cleaning jobs.
The handle is described as ergonomic and intended to reduce fatigue during extended use, although no detailed handle dimensions are supplied. The listing also claims twice the speed and three times the power of standard electric fillet knives. Those are manufacturer or seller claims rather than independent measurements, so they should be read as positioning information rather than verified comparative testing. The key practical point is the steady corded format, which suits a cleaning table where mobility is secondary to keeping the knife ready.
Pros
- Heavy-duty motor is intended for repeated fish-cleaning work.
- 7.5-inch reciprocating blade offers a middle-length option.
- Published information lists the blades as dishwasher safe.
- Corded operation removes battery-runtime concerns.
- Ergonomic handle design is intended for longer sessions.
Cons
- Corded operation limits use away from a suitable electrical outlet.
- The supplied information does not list multiple blade lengths or a flexible blade option.
This Rapala makes the most sense for a home fish-cleaning station or an angler who values a consistent corded setup. It may be easier to manage than a 10-inch blade for ordinary catches, while still offering more reach than a compact blade. Buyers who clean fish on a boat or deep in the field should choose a cordless model instead. It is also less versatile than kits with clearly documented flexible and stiff blade choices.
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6. FLISSA 12V Cordless Electric Fillet Knife — Best for Portable Fish Cleaning
The FLISSA cordless kit is aimed at anglers who want to carry the complete knife setup from the truck to the dock without relying on a power cord. It includes two replaceable 2,000mAh lithium-ion battery packs, an LED battery indicator, and a molded hard case. Those features work together in a practical way: one battery can be charging while the other is ready, and the case keeps the knife, blades, and accessories together during transport.
Its 8-inch and 10-inch stainless steel blades are described as interchangeable, with different stiffness and flexibility for different fish sizes and species. The listing does not identify exact blade construction beyond stainless steel, so buyers should focus on the useful size pairing rather than assume a particular alloy or edge treatment. A soft ergonomic handle and trigger guard may help control, while the supplied guidance recommends allowing the tool to cool after about 20 minutes of continuous use and avoiding continuous cutting through hard bones.
Pros
- Cordless format supports use at remote cleaning locations.
- Includes two rechargeable 2,000mAh battery packs.
- 8-inch and 10-inch interchangeable blades cover different fish sizes.
- LED battery indicator helps track charge status.
- Hard case protects the knife and accessories during transport.
Cons
- The supplied guidance calls for cooling breaks after about 20 minutes of continuous use.
- Continuous cutting through hard bones is specifically discouraged.
FLISSA is a good fit for anglers who want mobility and a clearly defined two-blade arrangement without carrying a cord. The cooling guidance deserves attention during large catches, since a long uninterrupted session may require pauses. Buyers processing fish in smaller batches may find that limitation easy to manage. Those who expect sustained heavy work should compare the R12 or a corded model before choosing this lighter portable approach.
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7. Seesii Cordless Electric Fillet Knife — Best for a Complete Fish-Cleaning Kit
The Seesii is the broadest kit in this comparison. Alongside the cordless electric knife, it includes four replaceable blades, two 2,000mAh batteries, a fish scaler, fin shears, cut-resistant gloves, a case, and charging equipment. That collection is useful for someone setting up a fish-cleaning station from scratch. Instead of reaching for separate tools when the scales and fins need attention, the main accessories travel together in one package.
The published information lists a motor speed of 2,300 reciprocating strokes per minute and up to 100 minutes of continuous working time from the two batteries. These are stated product specifications, not independent performance measurements. A dual safety switch is listed, and the included gloves add a layer of hand protection during handling, though cut-resistant should never be treated as cut-proof. Four blades can support rougher preliminary work and finer filleting, but the available information does not identify their individual lengths or flexibility.
Pros
- Four replaceable blades provide the broadest documented blade quantity here.
- Two 2,000mAh batteries are included.
- Includes a scaler, fin shears, gloves, case, and charging kit.
- Dual safety switch helps reduce accidental startup risk.
- Published specifications list 2,300 reciprocating strokes per minute.
Cons
- The supplied information does not identify the length or flexibility of each blade.
- The larger accessory collection requires more storage and cleanup than a basic knife kit.
Choose Seesii if the job begins before filleting, with scales and fins still attached, and you want one portable case for the process. It can be especially useful for a new outdoor cleaning setup where separate shears and a scaler have not yet been purchased. A minimalist buyer may prefer the simpler WORKPRO or Old Timer cordless model. Also, the included gloves supplement safe handling but do not replace careful blade changes, stable fish placement, and attention to the moving blades.
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8. KastKing Speed Demon 110V Electric Fillet Knife — Best for Small-Handle Control
The KastKing Speed Demon takes a corded approach with an 8-foot power cord, a 110V AC motor, and two blade sets. The published information identifies a 7-inch finesse blade and a 9-inch Talon blade, so buyers get a defined length distinction rather than an unspecified assortment. The streamlined handle has a small circumference and a soft elastomer grip, details that may appeal to users who find thick handles difficult to control.
The blades are described as 420 stainless steel with a titanium vapor-deposition coating, and the carrying case is described as water resistant and puncture resistant. Those details support organized storage, though the case should still be kept dry after contact with fish water. An 8-foot cord gives useful reach around a fixed station. Before operation, the supplied instructions emphasize full blade insertion, proper rivet engagement, and trigger-lock positioning, so setup should be handled carefully rather than rushed.
Pros
- 7-inch and 9-inch blade sets offer clearly documented length choices.
- Small handle circumference may suit users who prefer a narrower grip.
- 420 stainless steel blades have a stated titanium coating.
- Eight-foot cord supports use around a stationary cleaning area.
- Protective carrying case is included.
Cons
- Corded operation restricts use where electrical access is unavailable.
- The available information does not describe the blades as flexible or stiff.
This KastKing is a useful choice for buyers who want corded power and a handle with a smaller documented circumference. The 7-inch blade may be easier to manage around smaller fish, while the 9-inch option adds reach for larger work. It will be less convenient on a boat or remote shoreline than a battery model. Buyers should also pay close attention to blade installation and the trigger lock before starting the motor.
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9. Old Timer Cordless Electric Fillet Knife — Best for Simple Cordless Use
The Old Timer cordless model keeps its feature set relatively straightforward. It uses an 8-inch fully serrated stainless-steel blade, a rechargeable battery, a textured comfort grip, a safety lock, and a battery indicator. The 16.5-inch overall length and 1.4-pound weight make the tool more substantial than several of the lighter cordless options here, so it may suit buyers who prefer a traditional full-length electric fillet knife rather than a compact handle and interchangeable blade system.
The removable blade supports cleaning after fish preparation, and the included self-draining case addresses storage after a wet session. A fully serrated blade can be useful for the reciprocating cutting action, but this model does not offer the clearly documented flexible and stiff blade pairing found on the WORKPRO or FLISSA. Buyers should also account for the listed weight when planning a large batch of fish, since repeated handling can feel different from using a tool that weighs closer to one pound.
Pros
- Cordless design is suitable for outdoor fish-cleaning locations.
- Eight-inch fully serrated stainless-steel blade is included.
- Removable blade supports cleaning.
- Battery indicator helps show available charge.
- Self-draining case and carrying bag support wet-use storage.
Cons
- The listed 1.4-pound weight is higher than several other cordless options in this group.
- Only one blade style is documented, with no flexible and stiff pair listed.
Old Timer suits the angler who wants a simple cordless knife with an 8-inch blade and a case built for outdoor use. It may be easier to understand than a kit filled with several blades and accessories, although its heavier listed weight and single-blade configuration narrow its appeal. Buyers who clean smaller fish or need maximum blade versatility should move up to a multi-blade cordless option. For occasional use, the straightforward layout may be exactly the point.
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Buying Guide
Match Blade Length to the Fish and Cutting Space
Blade length affects reach, control, and how easily the knife can follow the fish’s frame. An 8-inch blade is a practical middle option for many routine filleting tasks, while a 10-inch blade can provide more reach on larger fish. Shorter blades, such as the 6-inch Rapala option, may be easier to manage around smaller fish and tighter areas. Longer does not automatically mean better, especially when the cleaning board is narrow or the fish is small.
Understand Flexible and Stiff Blade Roles
Flexibility matters because filleting involves following contours rather than making a straight sawing cut through a block of material. The WORKPRO, FLISSA, and similar kits clearly identify flexible and stiff blade choices. A flexible blade may offer more control around smaller fish, while a stiff blade can provide a more stable feel for larger cuts. Several other products list blade quantities without identifying each blade’s flex, so buyers should avoid assuming that four blades equal four distinct cutting profiles.
Choose Cordless or Corded Power for the Cleaning Location
Cordless knives are convenient beside a boat, dock, campsite, or remote fish-cleaning table. Two-battery kits reduce interruptions, but batteries still need charging and may require care during storage. Corded knives offer continuous access to power at a home station, garage, or covered outdoor table. Their cords can become awkward around wet surfaces and crowded work areas. The right format follows the location where the fish will actually be cleaned, rather than a general preference for battery tools.
Give Grip and Safety Features Serious Attention
Fish slime and water can make a smooth handle difficult to hold. Non-slip rubber or textured grips, trigger guards, and safety locks appear across the leading options for good reason. A safety lock helps prevent accidental activation, but it does not replace deliberate blade installation or stable fish placement. The KastKing instructions specifically call for checking blade insertion and rivet engagement, a useful reminder that reciprocating blades require careful setup before the motor starts.
Plan for Cleaning and Dry Storage
Removable blades simplify access to areas that can collect scales, fish residue, and water. Cases help keep the knife, blades, batteries, and charger together, but a case should not become a place where wet parts remain sealed for long periods. Dry the components according to the product instructions before storage. Self-draining cases, hard cases, and dedicated blade compartments each help organization, yet none removes the need for basic cleanup after saltwater use.
Look at the Complete Kit, Not Only the Motor
A knife may be sold with extra blades, batteries, gloves, shears, a scaler, or a case. Those accessories can matter if the buyer is building a fish-cleaning setup from scratch. The Seesii includes the widest collection of cleaning tools, while the BUBBA focuses more heavily on multiple coated blades and organized storage. Accessory quantity should serve the intended task. Extra pieces are less useful if they remain in a drawer because the knife is used only for occasional panfish.
Best Electric Fillet Knife FAQ
Are electric fillet knives suitable for saltwater fish?
Many of the listed products are described for freshwater and saltwater fishing, but saltwater still demands careful cleaning and drying. Stainless steel and coated blades can help resist corrosion, yet the supplied information does not make any product corrosion-proof. Rinse and dry components according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and avoid storing wet blades or batteries in a closed case.
Powered blades introduce a different handling arrangement. Read the salmon-filleting sequence for the preparation stages, then follow the electric knife’s own operating instructions.
What blade length is best for fish filleting?
An 8-inch blade is a useful general-purpose size for many anglers, while a 6-inch or 7-inch blade may provide more control on smaller fish. A 9-inch or 10-inch blade can offer additional reach for larger fish. Fish size, board space, and personal control all matter. A longer blade can become awkward if the cutting area is cramped or the fish is small.
Is a flexible blade better than a stiff blade?
Neither is universally better. Flexible blades can follow the contours of smaller fish and may provide useful control near ribs and skin. Stiff blades can feel more stable during larger or firmer cuts. Kits such as the WORKPRO and FLISSA make this distinction easier to use because they include separate flexible and stiff blade options.
Do electric fillet knives replace a conventional fillet knife?
They can reduce the manual sawing effort during repeated filleting, but a conventional knife may still help with small trimming adjustments, separating stubborn areas, or working where a motor is inconvenient. Electric knives also require battery charging or outlet access and need careful blade cleaning. Many anglers keep both types available for different parts of the cleaning process.
How should the blades be cleaned?
Follow the product-specific instructions, remove the blades where the design allows it, and clean away fish residue before storage. The Rapala Heavy Duty listing identifies its blades as dishwasher safe, but that claim should not automatically be extended to the other products. Removable does not always mean dishwasher safe, and motor housings should not be treated like washable blade components.
Are included cut-resistant gloves cut-proof?
No. Cut-resistant gloves can provide an additional layer of protection, but they do not make careless handling safe or guarantee protection from every blade movement. Keep the fish stable, switch off the knife before changing blades, use the safety lock as instructed, and handle the gloves according to their care and protection information.
Should I choose a battery model with one battery or two?
Two batteries are useful for longer sessions because one can be available while the other charges. The WORKPRO, FLISSA, and Seesii each list two rechargeable batteries. A single-battery model may be adequate for occasional use or a small catch, particularly if the knife is charged before leaving home. Runtime claims are product-specific and can vary with pressure, fish size, and cutting conditions.
Final Verdict
The BUBBA Li-Ion Cordless Electric Fillet Knife is the strongest overall match for the broadest group of anglers. Its cordless format, four coated reciprocating blades, non-slip grip, trigger guard, LED battery indicator, removable blades, and storage case cover the practical details that matter after a day on the water. It is a particularly sensible choice for users who move between remote and home cleaning locations.
The Rapala R12 is the better alternative for buyers who prioritize a listed 80-minute run time, a heavy-duty motor, and an EVA hard case. The WORKPRO is compelling for its clearly identified 8-inch flexible and 10-inch stiff blades with two batteries, while the Seesii suits anyone building a more complete cleaning kit with a scaler, shears, gloves, and four blades. Corded buyers should look at the BUBBA 110V, Rapala Heavy Duty, or KastKing Speed Demon. Match the knife to the fish size, workspace, power access, and amount of cleaning you expect to do, then give equal attention to blade care and safe storage.
