We Tried the Junshu Mini Thumb Knife Because It Was Too Weird Not To (Spoiler: We Loved It)
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Published Sep 11, 2020
- Value: 19/20
- Functionality: 20/20
- Ease of Use: 15/20
- Aesthetics: 15/20
- Quality of the Final Project: 20/20
TOTAL: 89/100
OK, we’ll be honest: When we originally learned that tiny “thumb knives” were a thing, we were a bit skeptical (and confused). Our first question was simply, what the heck are you supposed to use this little thing for? Not to mention, it looks a little...odd. But appearances can be deceiving.
PureWow’s Audience Development Strategist, Ali Brown, is no Ina Garten in the kitchen (or Kim Wilde in the garden, for that matter) but when she got her hands on the Junshu Thumb Knife, it made her feel like a true professional. Just check out the video of the thumb knife in action below and see for yourself.
With an arc blade design, the tiny knife is made from imported stainless steel and features a silicon fingertip. The Junshu Thumb Knife also comes with a special cut-proof finger sleeve to keep your pointer finger covered from a potential injury (ouch).
Now that you know what it looks like, how does it work and what the heck do you use it for?
The website dubs the item as “a garden helper,” suitable for picking vegetables, strawberries and grapes as well as pruning branches (all while simply using one hand). “Not only is this a very useful kitchen hack tool for things you didn't even know could be easier (like removing strawberry tops, trimming green beans and peeling potatoes), but it's also great for gardening," confirms Brown. “It’s excellent for picking veggies or berries and trimming or pruning in the yard.” While we’re on the topic of kitchen use, Brown made clear what her favorite use of the Thumb Knife was—peeling ginger. “I have always hated peeling ginger and it made it so easy as you can see in the video,” she continued.
As far as cons go, the main issue here was the sizing. According to Brown, the Junshu Thumb Knife was “far too big” for her thumb (which by the looks of some online reviews seemed to be an issue for others as well). However, it’s important to note that the tiny tool comes in two sizes, small and large, so be mindful of that when ordering one of these guys. Another downside to this kitchen helper is that it’s also not the most aesthetically pleasing (which may or may not be a problem, depending on how you stylish you like your home accessories to be). “It's peculiar looking for sure,” says Brown.
Overall, while it may not be the prettiest tool in your kitchen drawer, the Junshu Thumb Knife is effective, safe and has a small price tag of just $10. So if you’re looking to make gardening and kitchen life just a little bit easier, give this small but mighty knife a go.