Okay, this is a HOT deal even though it's not on sale. I used a FoodSaver vacuum system for several years but use it less and less because of the hassle. I just discovered this system which is handheld, uses re-sealable ziplock type bags, and the bags are dirt cheap. I LOVE THIS THING. The best part, it's just $9.50 at Target or WalMart and comes with the vac, a few bags and even batteries (I plan on using Enelopes when the batteries go dead). It's a little fussy at times. Best to squeeze as much air out as possible before starting, but it works so much better than the $150 FoodSaver without taking up any counter space. It says bags are designed for Freezer use, but I use in the fridge, without issue. Try this thing. It's the best $10 kitchen appliance I've ever found.

BTW, they hide these things in the Ziplock area of Target and not near the FoodSaver appliances.

This vacuum sealer is easier than FoodSaver.
Smaller, can keep in drawer.
Battery powered; no cord.
Bags are like ziplocks, so you don't have to waste a bag; you can reseal over and over.
Only $10!
Bags are less than $3 for a dozen bags and can be reused.

Reynolds Handi-Vac Vacuum Sealer -
Vacuum Sealing System Starter Kit with Handy Vac Freezer Bags and Batteries

review

amazon

Thanks for the write up. I'm sold.

Always looking to save some counter space. I'll have to pick one up and try it out. If I like it more than my FoodSaver, I may have to use the Costco "return anything" warranty in a slightly abusive manner.

Few weeks ago, Food Lion had a $3 off stuck to them. There was also a rebate $5 rebate form too. Not sure if this is still going though.

You should check your local supermarket. These are sold there too I've read. They really treat it like a disposable item. They're right next to the cheap baggies and are in small bubble pack (which btw, is the best bubble pack in the world; you just pull a tab and the whole back comes off!). Point being, these are so cheap, it's probably not worth it to have shipped. I paid $9.50, plus $7 for a bunch of quart bags and a bunch of gallon bags at Target.

ebookybaby said:Thanks for the heads up...smells fishy.It actually sounds like a good product that I will surely give a try and I don't use my FoodSaver often enough due to the hassle factor. Thanks OP.

I just will not buy on an unsecure website that wants my credit card number on page 1 and doesn't even bother to have a secure session.

I can personally vouch for the HandiVac device and bags as I have been using them since they first came out many months ago.
We buy chicken breasts, ground beef and bulk bacon when on major sale and divide and vacuum seal them for freezing. I can assure you all, the seal is just as effective as the FoodSaver food my mom seals and freezes. I just thawed out some steaks for my birthday dinner and once thawed they were as fresh and red as the day I sealed them (about 3 months ago.)

My wife had been bugging me to get us a FoodSaver ever since she saw my mom's and I was putting it off ($100+ and then the cost of those mile-long bags.)
Then these came out and I bought the starter kit (about $10) and never looked back. We use the gallon and quart size bags and have no problem with any. Just be sure not to overfill. The rough-textured part of the bags grip together and can't have food in it.

Incidentally, they are sold at every grocery store I have checked.

Also, I use my own rechargeable batteries since the originals started weakening.

I can't wait for them to come out with containers with the vacuum valve on them.

By the way, I mix up a batch of marinade (teriyaki, creole garlic, etc.) and vacuum seal a couple of chicken breasts in the bag with the marinade in it. When I thaw them out, they marinate for a few hours in the fridge and we are good to go!

I own both this thing and the FoodSaver machine.

The Reynolds bags are OK if you plan to open, close and re-vacuum something over and over again but for long term storage the FoodSaver wins hands down. The FoodSaver bags just hold the vacuum better over time.

LeoHouston said:I own both this thing and the FoodSaver machine.

The Reynolds bags are OK if you plan to open, close and re-vacuum something over and over again but for long term storage the FoodSaver wins hands down. The FoodSaver bags just hold the vacuum better over time.

Exactly! These reynolds bags are great to put warm-ups in or something you are going to use within a week at the most, but for long term, they just do not hold up.

FoodSaver has its place and so does this magical little gadget!!

Mike

Now to find eneloop's for a CHEAP price - LOL - hey I had to make a joke didnt I :p

you think your sister is hot?

The KevMaster thinks his sister is Hawt too