How to Buy an Ice Crusher

An ice crusher can help create authentic bar drinks by chopping the ice to the perfect size. These contraptions can also help make a tasty snow cone. Whatever your purpose, here's how to buy the right one the first time.

Instructions

1. Decide which type of ice crusher you want. Your options include electric, manual crank or handheld types.

2. Compare the options. Obviously, the electric ones will make your task easier but you will pay a higher price. The manual cranks can often do a great job with little effort. The handheld types are very inexpensive, but you're only able to crack ice in small quantities.

3. Choose a style as if it were a piece of furniture. Retro style ones from the 1950s may offer the interesting look you're going for. More sophisticated or commercial grade types may have your friends wondering where they can buy one just like yours.

4. Check out other items that may come with the ice crusher. A shaker may be a part of the package so you can easily make bar drinks without having to transfer the ice.

5. Determine where you display or store your ice crusher. Various sizes are available from small tabletop to huge commercial sizes. If you'll use it for a party, then a small portable one that can be stored in a cabinet will suffice.

6. Buy an antique. A 50-year-old ice crusher can still be in great shape since the majority of the materials used are metal. Choosing an antique ice crusher can provide you with an interesting conversation piece.