I didn’t intend to actually use this avocado gadget when I first received it.

It had been about a year since a painful avocado/knife mishap, and even though I had sharpened my knife skills and cut out some bad habits since then, my wife thought it’d be funny to get me the gadget as a gag. You know, since I obviously wasn’t to be trusted with a knife. Ha. Ha. Ha.

I’m generally not a big fan of gadgets, mostly preferring a minimalist approach to cooking, but I gave it a shot anyway. Now the slicer is in regular use in my kitchen. I can have three avocados split, seeded, sliced and sitting in my molcajete, ready to be mashed into guacamole, in less time than it takes to do one with my chef’s knife.

It’s worth noting that the “splitter” side of the gadget, though plastic, is surprisingly sharp. Some might even argue I shouldn’t have been trusted with that, either.

Manufacturer: Oxo

Does it work?: Yes

Pros: Quick, simple to use, easy to clean with a brush. Easily separates all the fruit from the skin.

Cons: Hit too hard and the metal prongs can dig too deep into the pit, making it difficult to release. And if the avocado is even a little bit too soft, it can be difficult to get nice, even slices. So if presentation is important, opt for the control of a knife.

Cost and availability: $10-$15, available at Bed Bath & Beyond, Target, Sears, Amazon.com and oxo.com

Worth it?: Yes

Who needs it?: Anyone who regularly makes guacamole, wants a shortcut for preparing avocado or has a painful history with avocados and knives

Got a gadget that you love? Or are you curious about one you’d like us to test? Email crave@staradvertiser.com