Compared to all the kitchen gadgets gathering dust in our cupboards, this glorified lever is the most efficient, easiest to clean, and most satisfying to use. It has a simple design, few moving parts, and a removable cup to catch the drips. It doesn't spew flecks of fruit all over the wall and there's no messy pulp to mop up. With no motor to burn out, this industrial-strength juicer works just as well as when we bought it from a restaurant supply store two years ago -- and we use it an average of twice a week, depending on what citrus is in season. We also own a Black & Decker electric model (it now has a blown-out motor), a Juiceman Jr., a wooden hand reamer, and a little metal one you insert into a lemon just for a squeeze. With its powerful six-inch lever, the Hamilton remains our absolute favorite. In the dark winter months, when the backyard tree gives you lemons... well, you know the rest.

-- Raquel Maria Dillon

Hamilton Beach Commercial Juicer
$170
Available from Amazon

Or $136 from Instawares

Manufactured by Hamilton Beach