Out of the box, it took some minor assembly. Very easy to do with user manual directions. Once assembled, we tested it with various items. It sliced fresh bread with ease. Smoked a pork loin for "Canadian bacon". Again... perfect slices. Dialed down to the thinnest setting for a ham which is great for deli sliced ham sandwiches. I am ready to buy some beef and slice it thin for jerky! It is so quiet when operating. Heavy duty, will last the rest of my lifetime!