Poultry Shears for All Seasons and Reasons

I can't imagine functioning in the kitchen without my poultry shears. I use them to quarter a raw chicken or to cut it into pieces. I've called them into service to separate hot-off-the-grill baby back ribs. And I'll turn their attention to a Costco Seasoned Rotisserie Chicken where they'll make short shrift of the work.

Last week I used them to cut the nails off some chicken feet. But that's another story...

When shopping for shears, look for some of my favorite features:

• Blades that separate for easy cleaning and are dishwasher safe.
• A handle lock that keeps the blades closed when not in use.
• A comfortable, easy-grip handle.

With my poultry shears in-hand, there's no fooling around. I mean business, and they get the job done.

--Tracy Schneider